6 ways to say “thank you” to your volunteers

In her article, “Volunteers, Part 1: What makes them stay?,” Christine Litch of VolunteerHub recommends that nonprofit organizations recognize the services of its volunteers. While many organizations show appreciation by using informal ways such as saying, “Thank you for doing a great job!” or formal ways such as sponsoring a volunteer recognition night, Litch reports just 30 percent of charities actually follow this practice.

As a volunteer coordinator, what can you do to help your organization stand out as one that cares about its volunteers?

Here are six quick, easy, budget friendly ideas to help you say thank you:

1. Give your volunteers a free beverage by signing up for the Dunkin Donuts “DD Perks” program. You can enroll as many cards for as many volunteers your organization desires to treat. Volunteers can register their cards using their own email address and add funds to earn points.
2. Create an Instagram message by posing in a group picture with your staff as you hold a sign addressed to your volunteers!
3. For your lady volunteers, treat them to a health and wellness or beauty gift! Groupon regularly offers deals for 30 or 60 minute massages as well as deals for manicures and/or pedicures.
4. Home Depot, which operates one of the best e- gift card programs among retailers, are perfect gifts for your “DIY” volunteer guys!
5. Plan a lunch or dinner date for your volunteer staff. Open Table offers over 3,500 restaurants to choose from as well as an option to purchase gifts for groups
6. For your senior volunteers, lending a helping hand with their day-to-day activities is a great way to show appreciation. For example, offer to do a task at their home such as washing their car, taking their dog for a walk, mowing the lawn, or watering their garden. Or, run an errand such as picking up or dropping off clothing at dry cleaners, delivering groceries or prescriptions, or returning library books.

Using these ideas, you’ll reap benefits for your volunteers and your organization. Volunteers who feel appreciated are more likely to participate in future activities. Some may even be inspired to become donors! The gift donations or services you request from local businesses for your volunteers builds partnerships within your community. Furthermore, your organization gets great publicity when you share how you love your volunteers!

What ways do you say thank you to your volunteers? Join me on Twitter: @esteemedscribe  or Facebook and let me know!