tips on managing vols in your org

Be as clear and specific as you can about your project request

This may require several iterations and discussions within your organisation to refine your project scope and priorities. Your request should include as much detail as possible regarding your organisation, deadlines, timelines, skills needed, project objectives and outputs.

The broker and volunteer will be able to help refine the project scope, but it is always beneficial to have considered and discussed the activities, tasks and outcomes as best you can.

Another note on project scope – sometimes the scope is further modified when discussion with the

volunteer starts as they will bring another perspective to the problem or opportunity.

Ensure that all relevant stakeholders within your organisation support the project.

This means ensuring that they understand why the project is important to your organisation and what the outcomes are likely to be.

Consider what materials and inputs the project will need from your organisation and prepare as much as possible.

Don’t hold back requests because of what you feel to be short comings within your organisation.

Most organisations are doing the same balancing act of optimising their impact with minimal resources and can’t do everything they would like to. Both the broker and the volunteer are aware of this.

Allocate sufficient organisational time and resources to the project

While a volunteer brings additional resources to an activity and will undertake specific tasks, remember that they are working alongside you rather than doing things for you. They are experts in their professional field and you are experts in your organisation and your sector. The two components need to come together to produce relevant and effective outcomes.

At the outset of the project discuss all aspects with the volunteer and between you document what you agree to.

Raise any concerns (no matter how minor) that you have as soon as possible. Issues with timing, progress, skill set or change in scope should be brought to the attention of the monitor as early as possible. The monitor’s job is to support the organisation and volunteer and champion the project.

Allow plenty of time.

Projects often take longer than anticipated!

Enjoy the process!

Organisations and volunteers consistently report enjoyment and satisfaction in the new relationships and fresh understandings that result from working on projects. Be open to the unexpected changes and rewards that come from learning together.

For more information visit:

or drop into a Volunteering Resource centre in your area