saying “Thank You” on a regular basis

sending cards for achievements (birthdays, anniversaries, graduation, etc.)

write a news article for a local paper, highlighting the volunteers contribution

send a holiday greeting card (recognize their festive celebrations)

ask for volunteer input about a program

have a volunteer suggestion box

invite volunteers to staff meetings

send a volunteer for training

find ways for volunteers to share their special interests

provide certificates, pins, plaques

have a volunteer of the month award

host a banquet, luncheon, tea or reception in honour of volunteers

reimburse volunteers for expenses

provide volunteers with educational resources

always call volunteers by their name

take time to explain and spend time with volunteers

send a get well card, thank you card or personal note

recognize the impact of the number of hours contributed to the organization

provide volunteers with their own work area

nominate volunteers for awards

make telephone calls to volunteers - tell them they are missed

send personal notes of thanks and congratulations

print business cards for volunteers

provide reserved seating at any event

introduce volunteers to others

recognize length of service

create a volunteer bulletin board and keep information current

keep the lines of communication open (tell volunteers about holidays, trips, etc.)

provide meaningful opportunities based on the interest of the volunteer

smile and shake hands

to provide adequate information, training and assistance to enable our volunteers to meet the responsibilities of their position.

to have a written job description of each volunteer job that outlines the duties and responsibilities of the volunteer and the designate to whom he/she is responsible to.

To arrange satisfactory volunteer placement upon completion of screening and training.

Regular contact with the volunteer and feedback on performance, as available.

Providing volunteers with information on upcoming events and professional development opportunities.

To respect the individual needs and schedules of the volunteer, and be receptive to opinions and suggestions as to ways in which we might improve our programs and their implementation.

To treat the volunteer as an equal partner with agency staff, jointly responsible for completion of our agency mission. Input from volunteers will be encouraged and volunteers will be offered opportunities to be involved in the development of committees, training, special events and new programs.

To provide volunteers with:

an orientation package

a volunteer recognition award program (based on years of service)

an opportunity to learn new skills

an opportunity to make a difference by contributing to their community

To provide a reference (upon request) for education or employment after a minimum of six months of volunteer performance.

To recognize that no volunteer shall replace paid staff.

To support volunteers in building a good working relationship with staff at their placement.

To be available and accessible - to keep the lines of communication open between volunteers and staff. To answer volunteer questions and deal with concerns.

To review volunteer placements through formal and informal feedback.