A volunteer offers to drive a client to a medical appointment. Another helps carry supplies into a building. Someone else steps in to calm an upset client. These moments feel routine and generous, but they also introduce risks. Good intentions do not prevent accidents, allegations, or lawsuits. And when something goes wrong, nonprofits are often […]
Many nonprofit leaders feel a moment of hesitation when the topic of background checks comes up. Volunteers are mission-driven people, often well-known to staff, and screening can feel uncomfortable. That discomfort leads to a common question: Are background checks essential for volunteers, or do they signal a lack of trust? For organizations that rely on […]
Even the most well-run volunteer programs experience injuries from time to time. A slip, a fall, or an unexpected strain can happen despite good planning and training. When it does, the first few minutes matter. So, what should a nonprofit do immediately after a volunteer is injured? A straightforward, well-practiced volunteer accident process helps organizations […]
Each January, organizations across the country experience a surge in volunteer interest tied to Martin Luther King Jr. Day and other national and community service days. These events bring energy, visibility, and meaningful impact. They also introduce operational pressure when large numbers of volunteers arrive for a single day. For nonprofit leaders, the challenge is […]
Winter weather brings a familiar set of challenges for nonprofit organizations that rely on volunteers. Ice, snow, wet floors, and reduced daylight can quickly turn routine volunteer activities into injury risks. Slips and falls remain one of the most common causes of volunteer injuries, particularly during the winter months. Addressing those risks before volunteers arrive […]
January often brings a fresh wave of volunteers. New programs launch, seasonal initiatives resume, and organizations welcome people who are eager to help. That momentum is valuable, but it also increases exposure to risk if onboarding and training are rushed or inconsistent. At the start of the year, thoughtful onboarding is one of the most […]
In recent editions of the Volunteer Management Progress Report, many volunteer management professionals have said they are not able to devote as much time and energy to volunteer engagement as they would like, for two primary (and related) reasons: 1) they have other responsibilities at the organization; and 2) they often don’t have as much […]
