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Making Volunteerism Work
Tips for Nonprofits and Volunteers

By Joanne Fritz, About.com

With the recent passage of the National Service Act and the publicity that volunteer service has received lately, Americans are busy logging onto volunteer matching services, and nonprofits are scrambling to beef up their volunteer programs.

America may soon be called volunteer central as the government pours money into both increasing volunteer capacity and in promoting volunteerism across the life cycle.

How can your nonprofit meet the coming demand of volunteers for opportunities, and how can individuals find the right fit for their talents, interests, and time?

Recruit Volunteers

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There is a lot more to recruiting volunteers than just signing up at an online volunteer matching program or advertising in your newsletter. To make sure that volunteers are happy and stay with you, your organization must be ready to receive them.

Before You Recruit Volunteers, Get Your Organization Ready for Them

Three Approaches to Recruiting Volunteers

10 Ways to Recruit and Engage Youth Volunteers

Create a Great Volunteer Experience

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How do you keep volunteers happy and productive? Borrow some tips from the human resources field, and do a lot of prep work before you open your doors to those people who are anxious to help you with your cause.

Placing the Right Volunteer in the Right Job

Basics of a Volunteer Application Form

How To Write a Volunteer Position Description

Guide to Supervising Volunteers

10 Tips for Setting Up a Family Volunteer Program

Keep Your Volunteers

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Retention of volunteers is just as important as recruiting them. What do your volunteers expect and want? What motivates them and keeps them engaged? How do you reward them?

10 Ways to Make Volunteers Happy

How to Keep Boomer Volunteers Coming Back

Ban Boring Recognition Events

Find a Good Volunteer Opportunity

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Are you passionate about some cause? Do you feel embarrassed when your friends talk about their volunteer activities? Do you want to set a good example for your kids by volunteering? Don't rush into the first opportunity that presents itself. Do some self analysis, ask about your friend's experiences, and do a little investigative work on whatever organization you are thinking about volunteering for.

7 Ways to Get the Most Out of Volunteering

Before You Serve on a Nonprofit Board

Should You Pay to Volunteer Abroad?

Links to Volunteer Opportunities

Explore Nonprofit Charitable Orgs
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