Engaging and Inspiring Volunteers in Fundraising

Association of Fundraising Professionals

March 13, 2015Jennifer R. Darling

Senior Vice President, PhilanthropyChildren’s Hospital Colorado Foundation

Volunteering Generally considered an

altruistic activity, intended to promote goodness or improve human quality of life. In return, this activity can produce a feeling of self-worth or respect.

Volunteering is renowned for skill development, socialization and fun.

According to the IRS, 85% of all charitable nonprofits have no paid staff and are run entirely by volunteers

Volunteer time has value BUT volunteers can’t deduct their time on their personal income taxes

For purposes of nonprofits annual report (IRS Form 990) volunteer time is not reported as a contribution (although it can be acknowledged)

Volunteering (continued)

Motivating Volunteers Improve community;

give back to others; sense of civic duty

Fight for cause or issue that affected the volunteer personally

Make social connections Professional networking

opportunity Learn new skills;

facilitate career shift

Value of Volunteers Peer to peer fundraising Access to high-net worth

individuals, community leaders

Open doors and make introductions

“Validate” the organization and/or campaign

Recruit others of influence Provide hours of service

and advice

Assess readiness

Factors to consider to ensure volunteer satisfaction◦ What benefit does the organization gain through

volunteer involvement?◦ What does the volunteer gain? ◦ What additional staff resources do you need to oversee

volunteer programs? Have staff “blessed” volunteer role?◦ What fiscal resources are available?

Predict future problems and know possible solutions in advance

Is your Organization ready for volunteers?

See volunteers as “investors” in your organization – they can help generate big idea; they donate as well

Ambassadors “evangelize” for your organization Recruit others to serve and participate Help identify donors and prospects, open doors,

make introductions Engage friends, family, colleagues and others in

meaningful ways Thank donors Partner with staff; enhance chance of success

Roles of volunteers

Volunteer Committees Board, governance, nominating

Campaign leadership, major gift fundraising

Development Committee, Annual Gifts

Finance Committee, Audit, Investment oversight

Events – sell tickets, engage others, access to talent, find auction items, support event

Recruiting and retaining volunteers Know what skills you need/want Influential donor Use other volunteers to recruit others; partner Respect volunteers; Treat them like staff Provide a “job description” and train volunteers;

Agree to expectations and deliverables Communicate who is responsible for what Supervise and provide feedback, reward effort

Hiring volunteers

How to handle an inactive or “disruptive” volunteer Most common problems:

◦ Performance problems◦ Conduct problems◦ Economic problems

Predetermine process for warning and dismissal of volunteer

Involve volunteer leadership when possible

“Firing” volunteers

Prepare and provide information, bios/research Script and rehearse together; know your role Do the legwork, volunteer opens door – staff

schedules and handles details Keep informed and follow up with volunteer,

make it easy for them and ensure success Maximize their time, do not overuse, prioritize

activity Be succinct and professional Keep thorough records; assist with stewardship Recognize volunteer success

Supporting volunteers

Jen DarlingSenior Vice President, Philanthropy

Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundationjdarling@childrenscoloradofoundation.org

720-777-1720

Video Clip: Thank You for Supporting Kids Like Me

Any Questions?