Volunteers make the operations for NFPs possible, so attracting the best and the brightest will help you ensure you have enough people to be enthusiastic spearheads for projects, or steady hands for ongoing scheduled work. Recruiting and keeping connected with your volunteer base is not just preferred, but completely necessary.

Reception room online

These days, the internet is the best way of all to connect with a large group of people, and your organisation’s web page is the storefront of your organisation online. It is a welcome discovery to many volunteers when they find a comfortable space online dedicated just to them, where they can come to hang out with counterparts. Including a volunteers tab in your web page is a good way to have not only space for people to network and catch up, but also a good way to welcome newcomers, get bulletins out and explain purpose and procedures to a wider audience.

Entertain 

People coming to your website most likely want two things: to fulfil their interest in entertainment, and to take away some new information. Even causes of a serious nature can consider including stimulating and challenging content to their pages, as well as multimedia inclusions, to reach beyond the cursory gaze of quick scrollers. Also consistently request users comment on your webpage, and create shareable content for users to get regularly involved in spreading your message.

Educate

It is also very important to take the opportunity to educate the public about community mandates and how community participation is sought, valued and regulated. People who wish to volunteer their time or skills should be able to find out more about the opportunities there are to do so, including where to contact for real life engagement with your organisation.

Noticeboards in lights

A visit to your website is also a shortcut for would-be volunteers to ensure they have skills you could use before they contact you. Use your web page as a noticeboard, clearly laying out what kind of volunteer work is available, and the expectations and responsibilities related to each position.

For more ideas to make sure your NFPs website is top-notch and welcoming to volunteers, have a look at this article covering best design practices for not-for-profit websites.