Struggling to coordinate volunteer schedules for community outreach?
Dive into the challenge of organizing volunteers? Share your strategies for seamless community coordination.
Struggling to coordinate volunteer schedules for community outreach?
Dive into the challenge of organizing volunteers? Share your strategies for seamless community coordination.
-
Some of the things I have found helpful in coordinating volunteer schedules are 1. Communicating the Vision Clearly: It is a very critical component for a successful coordination. When volunteers understand your vision, they will better align with the purpose and know how effectively their skills and talents can align to this purpose. 2. Delegating responsibilities in line with their talents and skills: Delegating responsibilities will better give them an opportunity to showcase their talents and skills, which will support the team's objectives. 3. Provide a timeline for task execution: A timeline will help volunteers to put in their best for the team. 4. Feedback meetings and mechanism: regular meetings and feedbacks will help them improve
-
When you’re struggling with scheduling challenges, start with this process; 1. Identify the project timeline and specific activities, goals and needs linked to each project. 2. Create a clear visual (volunteer chart) of those goals and activities including the timeline (start and end dates) and required volunteer skills, supports and supplies needed. 3. Discuss the above items with team leads and volunteers. 4. Create a volunteer scheduling calendar that includes the events/projects, location, dates, volunteer roles, and necessary sign up details. 5. Work with volunteers and team leaders to discuss ways to recruit, train, schedule and support collaboratively.
-
Within your consistent conversations with your volunteers, try to get an understanding of their schedules. Certain industries have busier times of the year so you should be cognizant of not asking those individuals to volunteer during their busy times too much (still ask once because we shouldn't try to make decisions for people). Additionally, gain an understanding for the kinds of things your volunteers like to do, are good at, and dislike. If you have opportunities doing something they like, they'll be more likely to engage and even adjust their schedules to show up for your organization. Lastly, make sure roles, timing, and impact are crystal clear. Time is something none of us can get back so don't waste it.
Rate this article
More relevant reading
-
PeacebuildingHow can peacebuilding networks and coalitions amplify their collective voice and influence?
-
Community OrganizingHow can you create a powerful message for your community campaign?
-
Community OutreachWhat do you do if you're a late career professional interested in community outreach?
-
Public AdministrationSeeking to engage marginalized communities in public administration?