Empowering volunteers as advocates
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EmailInternal advocacy is an important aspect of supporting a thriving volunteer program. Learn how staff can empower their volunteers to be a program ambassador, share feedback, understand program culture and be a role model to advocate for the program.
How is volunteering perceived within your organization or program? How are you advocating internally for your volunteers? While we often focus on external outreach, recruitment and retention of volunteers, internal advocacy for volunteer management can get overlooked. Internal advocacy involves staff efforts to champion and raise awareness of the volunteer management needs of the program within your organization.
The Minnesota Alliance for Volunteer Advancement’s report on post-pandemic volunteer trends and engagement states that improving internal advocacy is key for organizations. A key component to internal advocacy is empowering and recognizing volunteers as advocates for the organization. Staff can empower their volunteers to serve as advocates by:
- Empowering volunteers as ambassadors for the program. It’s crucial to provide volunteers with training that includes the organization’s mission, goals and key messages so that volunteers are knowledgeable about the organization and local program goals and needs. Encourage open communication with volunteers and provide volunteers with regular updates on the program’s activities to help volunteers stay informed and passionate. Some ways to empower volunteers might include offering opportunities for volunteers to act as ambassadors for the program; volunteering at recruitment events, staffing a table at community gatherings, and talking with key stakeholders.
- Encouraging volunteers to share their experiences, insights and feedback with staff. Establish regular feedback opportunities where volunteers can openly discuss their experiences with the program. This could include debrief meetings to discuss successes and improvements for large events or programs, conducting a survey of your volunteers or being available to meet with volunteers and listen to their feedback. Creating a culture that values volunteer input not only strengthens relationships but also demonstrates respect for their contributions. This includes staff being open to hearing feedback and making appropriate changes.
- Assisting volunteers in understanding program culture, policies and procedures. Provide a comprehensive orientation and ensure volunteers know where to find program resources and materials. Offering ongoing training for volunteers so they feel equipped to confidently navigate their roles and relay accurate information to their peers and program participants is important. Provide volunteers with regular updates and communication, such as using newsletters or social media channels, to keep volunteers informed of any program updates.
- Utilizing volunteers to serve as a bridge to other program volunteers. Encourage experienced volunteers to guide new volunteers through the organization’s processes and culture. Experienced volunteers can also facilitate peer learning sessions and organize social events to strengthen the volunteer community. Volunteers can serve as role models and contribute to a positive program culture by modeling respectful behavior, enthusiasm for the organization’s mission and adherence to established policies. Staff can recognize exemplary volunteer contributions through leadership roles or special commendations to inspire others to contribute their skills and ideas.
Internal advocacy is essential in creating a thriving volunteer program that makes a positive impact within communities. By leveraging volunteer passions, skills and dedication, organizations can amplify their impact, deepen their connections in their communities and to the mission of the organization, and foster program resilience. For more information about volunteering with Michigan State University Extension 4-H programs, please visit our website for 4-H volunteering and mentoring.
