Nurturing Volunteer Wellbeing in a Post-Pandemic World: Tips and Resources for Leaders of Volunteers

The pandemic has reshaped the landscape of volunteering, posing unique challenges and opportunities for both volunteers and Leaders of Volunteers. A lot of these challenges have been around for many years but were amplified by the pandemic. As we navigate this “new” normal, prioritising the wellbeing of our volunteers has never been more critical. Ensuring that volunteers feel supported, appreciated, and connected is key to maintaining a motivated and resilient volunteer team. Here are some of my strategies and tips to help Leaders of Volunteers nurture volunteer wellbeing in a post-pandemic world. None of these are new ideas but we should always reflect on our volunteer management practice.

1. Foster a sense of Community

Creating a sense of belonging is essential for volunteer wellbeing. Volunteers who feel connected to their peers and the organisation are more likely to stay engaged and motivated. It is important to know your volunteers' preferences for in-person or online meetups, and if online, what platform will work for them, not just you.

• Virtual meet ups: organize regular virtual meetings where volunteers can share their experiences, challenges, and successes.
• Social Media Groups: Create private groups on platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Mighty Networks, Mighty Pro, Slack for volunteers to connect informally.
• The buddy system: Pair new volunteers with seasoned ones to provide support and build relationships.

2. Provide clear communications

Transparency and clear communication are vital in managing expectations and reducing anxiety among volunteers.

• Regular communication: Keep volunteers informed about organisational changes, upcoming projects, but humanise the content by featuring volunteer profiles and case studies.
• Feedback channels: Establish regular feedback loops where volunteers can voice their concerns and suggestions.
• Effective training: Ensure volunteers receive adequate training, in person or online including updates on any new policies or procedures.

3. Promote mental health and wellbeing

Climate change, war, and the pandemic have taken a toll on everyone’s mental health, including volunteers. Providing resources and support for mental wellbeing is crucial.

• Mental health resources: Share information about mental health services and resources, such as hotlines and counselling services.
• Wellness workshops: Organise workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and self-care.
• Flexible scheduling: Allow flexible volunteering schedules to accommodate personal needs and reduce burnout.

4. Recognise and appreciate volunteer efforts

Recognition goes a long way in boosting morale and motivation among volunteers.

• Regular acknowledgement: Regularly thank volunteers for their contributions through newsletters, social media shout-outs, hand written notes and personal messages.
• Volunteer spotlights: Feature volunteer stories and achievements in your communications.
• Incentives and rewards: Consider small tokens of appreciation, such as gift cards, certificates, or branded organisational items for differing lengths of service.

5. Offer professional development opportunities

Providing opportunities for growth and learning can enhance volunteer satisfaction and retention.

• Skills development workshops: Offer training sessions that help volunteers develop new skills relevant to their roles.
• Leadership roles: Encourage volunteers to take on leadership positions within projects or committees.
• Networking events: Organize events where volunteers can network with professionals and other volunteers.

Conclusion

Nurturing volunteer wellbeing requires a multifaceted approach that includes fostering community, clear communication, promoting mental health, recognising all efforts – no matter how small or big, and offering development opportunities. By prioritising the wellbeing of volunteers, we can ensure they remain motivated, engaged, and ready to make a positive impact. Leveraging available online resources can further enhance our ability to support volunteers effectively. Together, we can create a supportive and thriving volunteer environment in this new era.

Stuart Garland is Learning and Capacity Building Manager with Volunteer Ireland (www.volunteer.ie). His role involves supporting volunteers and volunteer involving organisations through the delivery of extensive range of capacity building opportunities, in person, online and on demand. He has been a volunteer manager, managing volunteer programmes of up to c. 6,200 volunteers. He holds qualifications in Human Resource and Management, Volunteer Leadership, and Welfare Health & Safety. Volunteer Ireland regularly delivers a course in volunteer wellbeing, check out their training calendar. (www.volunteer.ie/training).