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Today I read a Forbes article titled “How Millennials Are Changing Philanthropy.” I thought of nonprofit leaders looking to create a volunteer program. A few of interesting points to keep in mind if you’re a leader:

  • By 2020, Millennials is the largest generational workforce in the U.S.
  • 84% of Millennial employees donated to a charity in 2014.
  • In the same year, 70% gave more than an hour of their time to a cause.
  • Even though Millennials earn less than earlier generations, they’re saddled with student loan debt. At the same stage in Gen X and Boomer generations, not such a high percentage were giving money and time to nonprofits. As we know, as people grow older, they become more generous.
  • Still, Millennials are on the path to become the most generous generation in modern times.

One of the best things nonprofit leaders can do to begin to encourage Millennials to become associated with their cause is to create a volunteer program. Millennials are highly supportive of causes, even if they don’t yet have the spending power of earlier generations. Additionally, since Millennials immerse themselves in technology, they’re a great group to help you spread awareness.

Get a Volunteer Coordinator

If you’re serious about a volunteer program, one of the best things to do is select a volunteer coordinator. This person is responsible and accountable for helping you develop the plan. Also, they’ll execute the program and measure the impact you’re making in your community. If you’re not able to hire someone, think of asking a current supporter with lots energy and enthusiasm for your cause. An essential quality for the volunteer coordinator is that this is someone who’s warm. For example, they’re personable. Of course, they’re passionate about the work you do. They’re enthusiasm will transfer to the prospects and volunteers they will speak to for your program.

Attainable Goals

To create an excellent volunteer program that Millennials will want to participate in, you have to be clear about developing a plan. Also, you have to have metrics to achieve goals. Once you establish a good program, you’ll need to create recruitment materials. Remember, you want it to resonate with your target audience—Millennials. It’s important to make sure you communicate well and in an easy way. Speak of your work, outcomes, and what volunteers gain from participating. On that last point, think about why your volunteers would want to get involved. So consider all of the benefits to encourage them to join. And don’t forget to include goals to help them see the impact of volunteering.

Create a Volunteer Database

After you decide to create a volunteer program, make sure you collect from them relevant information. You can start out with an Excel sheet. Or if you have a more flexible and robust CRM system, include fields unique to volunteer programs. Make it a point to not only gather information like names, addresses, emails, phone numbers, social media names. Also collect linformation about the hours your volunteers work and what they’ll do. You’ll also want other information directly associated with their volunteer work.

If you want to learn more about creating a volunteer program, take a few moments to watch this fun YouTube video.

 

Author of “Not Your Father’s Charity: Grip & Rip Leadership for Social Impact” (Free Digital Download)

© 2018 Wayne Elsey and Not Your Father’s Charity. All Rights Reserved.