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How to Speak Up for Your Mission Without Losing Your 501(c)(3) Status

There’s a common fear floating around nonprofit land:
“If we speak up, we’ll lose our 501(c)(3) status.”

Let’s squash that myth right now.

You can advocate for your community. What you can’t do is get into partisan mudslinging or endorse candidates. But taking a public stance on legislation, policies, or injustices that directly affect the people you serve? That’s not just allowed—it’s essential.

And yes, that includes talking about these issues on your website, in your emails, and all over social media.

Nonpartisan Doesn’t Mean Powerless

‍There’s a difference between being nonpartisan and being nonpolitical. You’re not a campaign arm, and you’re not funneling money into Super PACs—but you are absolutely allowed to:

• Educate the public on issues tied to your mission
• Push for legislation
• Meet with policymakers
• Rally your community around critical causes

Not only is that legal—it’s necessary. When you stay silent on the issues impacting your people, you leave power on the table—and your clients behind.

You Already Have the Tools to Advocate

‍You don’t need a lobbyist on speed dial to make a difference. You just need to use the platforms you already have.

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Social Media Posts
Your nonprofit can (and should) use Instagram, Facebook, X, or even TikTok to speak out on legislation or local issues. Just avoid endorsements or party politics.

Stick to messages like:

• “Here’s how [Policy X] would impact [your community].”
• “Our staff sees the impact of [Issue Y] every day. Here’s what you should know.”
• “We urge our supporters to contact their representative and support [Bill Name].”

Email Blasts
Your email list is one of your most powerful advocacy tools. Send educational messages that encourage your audience to get involved.

Example:
Subject: Big Cuts Are Coming to Mental Health Services—Here’s What You Can Do
Body: “Your voice matters. A new bill threatens to reduce access to care for 30,000 people across our region. We’re urging lawmakers to reject it. Here’s how to contact your representative…”

Don’t forget storytelling. Data might inform, but stories are what move people—and policies.

How to Stay on the Right Side of the IRS

‍Here’s your quick cheat sheet:

Don’t do this:

• “Vote for Senator Garcia!”
• “Councilmember Brown is the worst.”
• “Let’s raise money for [Candidate Name]’s campaign.”

Do this instead:

• “We oppose Senate Bill 123 because it will reduce housing options for seniors.”
• “City Council is voting Tuesday. Here’s what’s at stake.”
• “Want to help protect access to food programs? Here’s how to act.”

The key is to keep your focus on the issues, not the people behind them.

Yes, You Can Lobby—Within Limits

‍Lobbying is perfectly legal for 501(c)(3)s. You just have to play by the rules.

• Consider filing the 501(h) election. It provides clearer guidelines and safe limits for how much you can spend on lobbying.
• Without the 501(h), the IRS uses the vague “insubstantial” test (most experts say to keep it under 5% of your total budget).
• Keep good records of time and money spent on lobbying efforts.

What counts as lobbying?

• Direct lobbying: Contacting lawmakers to support or oppose specific legislation.
• Grassroots lobbying: Encouraging the public to contact their lawmakers about specific legislation.

Both are allowed. Just track it.

Examples of Advocacy Done Right

• A youth homelessness nonprofit posts about a housing bill and how it affects LGBTQ+ youth.
• A food bank emails supporters urging them to contact their senator about cuts to SNAP benefits.
• A mental health organization joins a statewide coalition for expanded services and shares updates on Facebook.

None of these messages endorse a candidate. All of them stand up for the mission. That’s what nonprofit advocacy looks like.

Silence Isn’t Safe—It’s a Missed Opportunity

‍You weren’t founded to play it safe. You were founded to make things better.

When policies threaten your clients, silence isn’t protection—it’s permission. Your community wants to hear from you. Your supporters want to take action. And your staff wants to know they’re not alone in this work.

Use your voice. Use your platform. And most importantly—use your influence.

Take the Mic

‍You have the legal right—and the moral responsibility—to speak up for your mission. Whether it’s a powerful Instagram caption, a three-paragraph email, or a conversation with a local leader, your advocacy matters.

Don’t sit this one out. Just get smart about how you speak up.

And if you’re still unsure where the lines are? Get clarity. Not silence.

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Let’s be honest. A fundraising event without sponsors is like a cake without frosting—technically edible, but why would you want to? Sponsors bring the frosting, the sprinkles, and sometimes even the fancy little gold candles.

If you're in the nonprofit leadership space and you’re planning an event, corporate sponsors aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential. They bring in dollars, expand your reach, and lend credibility. But this isn’t a one-and-done transaction. This is relationship-building, people! You’re looking to create partnerships, not just snag checks.

Let’s talk about how to do that—with grace, with clarity, and without losing your mind.

So, What Exactly Does a Sponsor Do?

Think of a sponsor as that generous friend who shows up to your party with three bottles of wine, helps set the table, and tells everyone how fabulous you are. Sponsors provide financial or in-kind support—money, auction items, maybe a spread from the local bakery—and in return, they get recognition, visibility, and all the warm fuzzies of supporting a cause that matters.

For them, it’s not just altruism—it’s smart business. They want to build their brand, align with community values, and yes, maybe even reach some new customers along the way.

Why Sponsors Matter (Like, a Lot)

Let’s break it down. Here’s why sponsorships are the secret sauce to nonprofit events:

• Cold, hard cash: They help you pay for the venue, food, printing, signage, and maybe even that live band you’ve been dreaming of.
• Built-in audience: They introduce you to their networks. You get to crash their party in the best way.
• Credibility boost: People take you more seriously when they see a trusted brand standing with you.
• New tools and connections: Their Rolodex (yes, that’s a throwback) becomes yours.
• Feel-good ripple effects: Their involvement enriches your community. Period.
• Long-term love: A well-nurtured sponsor might just become your ride-or-die for the next event—and the one after that.

Finding the Right Sponsors (Without Selling Your Soul)

You don’t need to chase every business in town. You need the right ones. Here’s where to start:

• Check your guest list from past events. Someone’s cousin might run a business that’s dying to support you.
• Google is your friend. Research companies whose missions align with yours. You’re looking for a values match, not just a logo.
• Tap your network. Board members, volunteers, that donor who knows everyone—ask around.
• Scour your donor database. You may have hidden gems in there who own businesses and love what you do.
• Go local. Look at community-minded businesses in your own backyard. They’re often the most loyal.
• Talk to your vendors. Your caterer or printer might be thrilled to be a sponsor and already know your vibe.

Now Let’s Talk About The Ask

Cue the sweaty palms, right? Don’t worry. You’ve got this. Here’s how to approach sponsorship with confidence and class.

1. Build a killer sponsorship packet

This is your pitch deck, your calling card, your love letter. It should include:

• A short, powerful summary of your mission and event goals
• Who your audience is and why it matters
• What sponsors get in return (visibility, leads, hugs)
• Sponsorship levels or custom opportunities
• Your contact info and next steps

Pro tip: Make it look good. Canva is your bestie.

2. Make it personal

Don’t just mass-email your sponsor packet into the void. Reach out directly. Send a warm, personalized note. Reference why you thought of them. If you’ve met before, remind them where. Show them you’ve done your homework.

3. Keep the communication flowing

Once they say yes (yay!), don’t ghost them. Update them. Thank them. Ask for their logo. Tell them what to expect at the event. Post-event, send results and a heartfelt thank-you.

Making Your Sponsors Fall in Love with You (and Come Back Again)

Want to turn a one-time sponsor into a forever partner? Here’s how:

• Deliver on what you promised. This isn’t optional. If you offered stage time, give them the mic. If you promised their logo on a banner, it better be there.
• Show them the love. Thank them in person, in writing, online, and in your printed program.
• Make it fun. Give them unique experiences—VIP access, speaking opportunities, fun photo ops, or post-event shout-outs.
• Keep them in the loop. Let them know how the event went. Share impact stories. Make them feel like insiders.
• Ask for feedback. Not only does this make them feel valued, but it also gives you gold for your next sponsorship strategy.

Sweetening the Deal: What to Offer Sponsors

Don’t just slap their logo on a flyer and call it a day. Offer things that matter. Here are some ideas:

1. Branded giveaways
2. Shout-outs on social media and your website
3. Meet & greets or exclusive access
4. Custom activations at the event (a photo booth, anyone?)
5. Warm leads or data about attendees (where appropriate)
6. Post-event coverage and sponsor highlights
7. Opportunities to match donations or double impact

The Bottom Line

Sponsors aren’t just ATM machines. They’re partners. They want to be part of something meaningful. Your job? Show them the heart of your mission, make their involvement easy and joyful, and follow through with integrity and flair.

Nail this, and you’ll not only raise more money—you’ll build relationships that fuel your mission long after the last folding chair is stacked.

Want some ready-to-go sponsorship templates and email scripts that actually sound like a human wrote them? Our Success For Nonprofits Etsy Store has you covered: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SuccessForNonprofits

Let’s go get those sponsors. You’ve got this.

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Does this sound familiar? Your team bends over backward to bring new donors through the door. You host events. You post. You email. You charm. And then... crickets. A bunch of those first-time donors disappear without a trace.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re on a never-ending hamster wheel of donor acquisition, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: some nonprofits have figured out how to stop chasing and start keeping. They’re not hunting down new donors every five minutes. Instead, they’re doubling down on loyalty. And guess what? It’s working.

Let’s talk about three surprisingly simple strategies you can put to work right now—no smoke, no mirrors, no magic wand required.

1. Make Giving So Easy It Feels Like Breathing

(Surprising? Only because we forget that convenience drives nearly everything else in our lives.)

Let’s get real for a second. You buy your latte on an app before you even leave the house. You tap your phone to pay for groceries. But when it’s time to make a donation? Suddenly we’re asking folks to fill out a form longer than a tax return.

Why are we making giving harder than it needs to be?

Here’s what the data says: nearly a quarter of donors prefer to give via things like PayPal, Venmo, or Apple Pay. But only 3% of nonprofits prioritize offering those options. That’s not just a gap—that’s a canyon.

Every step you remove from the donation process increases the chances a donor will actually complete their gift. Think of it like online shopping—the fewer clicks, the better.

Bonus tip: Offer monthly giving right at checkout. It’s simple, it’s intuitive, and it builds long-term donor loyalty on autopilot.

Bottom line: Your donors live in a frictionless world. If giving to you feels like work, they’ll move on. Make it easy, and they’ll stick around.

2. Ask What They Want. Then Actually Listen.

(Surprising? Only because we treat donor surveys like New Year’s resolutions—great in theory, but rarely done.)

Imagine buying your best friend a birthday gift without having any idea what they like. No hints. No list. Just vibes.

That’s how too many nonprofits approach their donor relationships.

Only 14% of organizations regularly survey their supporters. And yet, one of the top reasons donors stop giving? They don’t feel heard. Ouch. (For more cool and interesting facts about Nonprofit Fundraising Statistics check out this great blog post by Double The Donation here: https://doublethedonation.com/nonprofit-fundraising-statistics/)

Let’s flip that script. Send a quick survey after a donation. Add a one-question poll to your next email. Ask: “What inspired your gift today?” Then—stay with me here—use what they tell you. That feedback is pure gold.

Bottom line: Listening is your superpower. Ask. Respond. Reflect. Build trust. That’s the stuff of real relationships—and real relationships keep donors coming back.

3. Reconnect With Donors Who’ve Drifted Away

(Surprising? Only because we act like lapsed donors are ghosts. Spoiler alert: they’re not.)

You know that friend you’ve been meaning to text for ages? The one you really do care about, even though it’s been a while?

Your nonprofit has those friends, too. They’re not gone. They’re just waiting for a good reason to come back.

We spend so much time and money finding new donors, and almost none on re-engaging the ones who already said yes. But did you know it can cost five times less to re-engage a former donor than to find a new one?

Start small. Use your CRM to find folks who gave a year ago but haven’t been back. Send a warm, personalized message. Remind them why they gave. Tell them what their support made possible. Make it about them, not just your next campaign.

Bottom line: Past donors aren’t lost—they’re just waiting to be remembered. A heartfelt, thoughtful message might be all it takes to bring them home.

Let’s Wrap This Up (with a Bow of Authenticity)

Keeping donors isn’t some complex algebra equation. It’s not about shiny tech or the perfect email subject line. It’s about building real, human relationships.

You know how to be a good friend. You show up. You make things easy. You listen. You remind people they matter.

Do the same with your donors.

Make giving simple. Ask thoughtful questions. Respond with heart. Stay in touch—even when it feels like they’ve drifted. Because when you treat donors like real people (spoiler: they are), they don’t just stick around. They become champions for your cause.

And that? That’s how you build a thriving, generous community—one loyal donor at a time.

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Let’s talk about one of the least glamorous but most powerful tools in your nonprofit development plan toolbox: GuideStar.

I know. The name alone sounds like something out of a 2002 GPS system. But don’t let that fool you—GuideStar is the gold standard when it comes to nonprofit visibility and credibility.

So, if your profile is outdated, half-finished, or (gasp) you haven’t claimed it at all, let me explain why that’s costing you real money, real opportunities, and real trust.

What Is GuideStar, Anyway?

GuideStar (now part of Candid) is a massive database of every IRS-recognized nonprofit in the United States. It’s where funders, donors, grantmakers, and government agencies go when they want to learn more about your organization before making decisions.

In other words: it’s your nonprofit’s digital résumé. And if you’re applying for grants or trying to build donor trust, it better be polished.

Why You Need to Be Listed—and Updated

1. Funders Are Already Looking

Before a funder even visits your website, they’re likely pulling your GuideStar profile. Foundations and corporate grantmakers use it to:

• Confirm your 501(c)(3) status
• Check financial info (like your 990s)
• Review your mission and programs
• See who’s running the show

If your profile is incomplete, it makes you look disorganized. And that’s a hard first impression to undo.

2. Your GuideStar Profile Powers Other Donation Platforms

GuideStar isn’t just its own thing—it’s the backbone of many other platforms that support donations and donor-advised funds. It fuels donor-facing tools like:

• Network for Good
• JustGiving
• Fidelity Charitable
• Schwab Charitable
• Facebook Fundraisers (yes, those birthday fundraisers too)

So when you update GuideStar, you’re actually updating your info across multiple giving platforms at once. Talk about a time-saver.

3. You Can Earn a Transparency Seal

GuideStar offers transparency seals (Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum) based on how much information you share. These little digital badges do big things:

• They make you stand out in search results.
• They show you’re serious about accountability.
• Some funders require a minimum seal level just to apply for grants.

The higher the seal, the more you’re communicating: “We’ve got nothing to hide—and a lot to be proud of.”

4. It’s 100% Free

Yes, free. Claiming and updating your profile costs nothing but a bit of time. You don’t need to pay for the bells and whistles—just getting your profile to Bronze or Silver can already boost your credibility and search visibility.

How to Get Started

1. Visit www.guidestar.org
2. Search for your organization and claim your profile.
3. Fill in the Basics: Mission, programs, leadership team, 990s, and contact info.
4. Level Up Your Seal: Add metrics, board info, and DEI policies to unlock higher transparency levels.
5. Update Annually: Make it a habit—set a calendar reminder and treat it like an annual checkup.

Final Word: Don’t Sleep on This

You can have the best programs, the most passionate staff, and the cutest therapy dogs in your newsletter photos—but if you’re invisible on GuideStar (or look like a ghost town), you're losing opportunities before they even reach your inbox.

So take 30 minutes this week. Claim your profile. Update your info. Show the world—and your future funders—that you’re the real deal.

Because you are.

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Hiring an Executive Director is one of the most important decisions your nonprofit board will ever make. No pressure, right?

The right ED will steer your organization toward long-term impact, stronger programs, better fundraising, and a team that actually likes coming to work. But before they can do any of that, you have to get them in the door—and that starts with a solid job description.

If your current job post is just a list of buzzwords and vague responsibilities, it’s time for an upgrade. This sample Executive Director job description is written with clarity, structure, and real-life nonprofit expectations in mind. Use it as-is, or tweak it to fit your organization’s size, mission, and culture.

Executive Director Job Description Sample

Position Title: Executive Director
Location: [City, State]
Reports to: Board of Directors
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt

About the Organization

[Insert your nonprofit’s name] is a mission-driven organization focused on [insert your mission in plain, inspiring language]. We serve [target population or community] through programs such as [list key services or initiatives], and we’re proud to be known for our commitment to [insert distinguishing characteristic: innovation, grassroots leadership, equity, etc.].

Our values—[insert 3–4, e.g., accountability, transparency, equity, boldness]—aren’t just words on a wall. They guide our decisions, how we work together, and how we show up for our community.

We are in a period of [growth/consolidation/strategic planning/etc.] and are seeking a visionary Executive Director who is equally passionate about people and process—someone who can lead with purpose, partner with the Board, and build on a strong foundation to take us to the next level.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) will serve as the chief executive and face of the organization, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and external representation. They will work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to set priorities, manage resources, and ensure mission alignment in all aspects of the organization’s work.

This position requires a leader who is equally comfortable managing a budget as they are mentoring a staff member, or speaking at a public forum. The ED will cultivate a values-driven workplace, build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, and ensure the organization remains financially healthy and programmatically effective.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Lead the organization in pursuit of its mission and strategic goals, ensuring alignment between daily operations and long-term vision.
• Partner with the Board of Directors to review and refresh strategic plans, policies, and organizational benchmarks.
• Support board development and engagement by preparing clear reports, advising on governance best practices, and helping recruit new board members with diverse perspectives.

Organizational Management

• Oversee all day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring efficient processes, team alignment, and consistent execution across departments or functions.
• Maintain clear systems for internal communication, decision-making, and project accountability.
• Implement and monitor internal policies and procedures that reflect nonprofit compliance and support a healthy, inclusive workplace culture.

Team Leadership & Staff Development

• Supervise and mentor staff members; provide regular performance feedback and opportunities for growth.
• Promote professional development and a culture of mutual support, learning, and collaboration.
• Ensure the organization’s compensation, benefits, and HR policies reflect sector standards and support employee retention.

Fundraising & Development

• Develop and execute a multi-pronged fundraising strategy, including individual giving, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, grant writing, and events.
• Build and sustain relationships with donors, funders, and institutional partners through thoughtful stewardship and regular engagement.
• Collaborate with the Board and staff to create a culture of philanthropy and maximize fundraising potential across the organization.

Financial Oversight

• Lead financial planning and management, including development of the annual budget in collaboration with relevant staff and the Board’s finance committee.
• Monitor and analyze financial performance, ensuring timely reporting, fiscal responsibility, and compliance with all legal requirements.
• Ensure that financial controls and procedures are in place and aligned with best practices.

Program Oversight & Evaluation

• Oversee design, delivery, and evaluation of all programs and services, ensuring alignment with community needs and strategic goals.
• Use data and community feedback to continuously improve the quality and impact of the organization’s work.
• Stay informed of developments and trends in the field to ensure that the organization remains innovative and responsive.

Communications, Marketing & Advocacy

• Serve as the public face of the organization and lead external communications.
• Develop a consistent voice across all marketing channels—social media, newsletters, website, annual reports, etc.
• Represent the organization in public forums, coalitions, and media opportunities to advocate for the mission and elevate visibility.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• At least [insert #] years of senior-level nonprofit management experience.
• Demonstrated success in staff leadership, fundraising, and financial management.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; capable of engaging a wide range of audiences.
• Experience working with or on a nonprofit Board of Directors.

Preferred Attributes:

• Authentic passion for the mission and an understanding of the organization’s target community.
• Comfort with ambiguity, change management, and organizational growth.
• Familiarity with nonprofit finance systems, donor databases, and program evaluation tools.
• Ability to navigate interpersonal dynamics with empathy, accountability, and integrity.

Compensation & Benefits

[Insert salary range or “competitive salary commensurate with experience”]
Benefits include [healthcare, retirement, PTO, hybrid work schedule, etc.]. We are committed to offering a compensation package that reflects our values and supports the well-being of our team.

How to Apply

Please submit a resume and thoughtful cover letter explaining your interest and fit for the role to [insert email or link]. Include “Executive Director Application – [Your Name]” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

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Let’s talk about something thrilling.

Nonprofit bylaws.

(Okay, I lied. But stay with me.)

They might not be sexy, but bylaws are the foundation of your organization’s structure. They answer big questions like:

• Who’s in charge of what?
• What happens if a board member disappears mid-term?
• How many board members is too many?
• And yes, what to do when things go sideways and you need a formal way to clean up the mess.

Whether you’re just starting out or realizing it’s time to revise those dusty old bylaws that mention fax machines (yikes), this post will walk you through what you need to know—and offer a done-for-you bylaws template that will save you hours of frustration.

What Are Nonprofit Bylaws Anyway?

Bylaws are the rulebook for your nonprofit. They define how decisions are made, who has authority, how meetings are run, and how new board members are elected (or removed, if necessary—because, let’s be real, that’s a thing).

They’re legally important. But more than that, they’re practically important. Strong bylaws reduce drama, build trust, and help everyone on your team stay in their lane.

What Should Be in Your Nonprofit Bylaws?

Glad you asked. A solid bylaws template for nonprofits should include the following sections:

• Name and Purpose – Who are you and what are you trying to do?
• Board Structure – How many board members, what are their roles, and how long do they serve?
• Meetings – How often do you meet, how is quorum defined, and what counts as official business?
• Officers – Who holds what officer positions and what are they responsible for?
• Committees – Are they required? Optional? Can your board form a task force on “snack quality at events”? (Hey, maybe.)
• Conflict of Interest Policy – Yes, you need this.
• Amendment Process – How do you make changes to your bylaws without causing a mutiny?

And remember: your bylaws are a living document. If you wrote them 10 years ago and they still reference pagers… it’s time for an update.

Why You Shouldn’t Start from Scratch

You could build your bylaws from the ground up.

But why would you? You’ve got enough on your plate—like fundraising, community engagement, board wrangling, and the thousand other things on your “nonprofit leader” to-do list.

That’s why I created a fully editable nonprofit bylaws template—to take the guesswork out of the process and help you get it right the first time.

Purchase The Template Here: (It is discounted right now!)

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👉 Nonprofit Bylaws Template (Editable + Instant Download) on Etsy

It’s designed for small and mid-sized nonprofits and includes:

• Clear section headings
• Easy-to-understand language (no legalese that makes your eyes cross)
• Built-in flexibility so you can customize based on your board structure and state requirements

Final Thoughts

Bylaws aren’t just a hoop you jump through when incorporating. They’re a vital leadership tool that helps your nonprofit stay focused, legally compliant, and drama-free (or at least drama-lite).

If you’re starting a nonprofit or revisiting your governance documents, don’t wing it. Use a proven bylaws template for nonprofits to save time, avoid headaches, and start strong.

Because nonprofits deserve fewer migraines and more momentum.

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Volunteers are the lifeblood of many nonprofits. They show up with passion, time, and energy—and all they ask for in return is a little respect, clear direction, and a sense that what they’re doing actually matters.

But let’s be real. Volunteer programs can feel like a revolving door. One day you’ve got a rockstar crew, the next you’re staring at a signup sheet with two names and a coffee stain.

Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Get Clear on What You Actually Need

Before you plaster “VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!” on every bulletin board in town, stop and ask yourself: What exactly do we need volunteers to do?

Be specific. Do you need someone to help with social media, sort donations, run a registration table, or wrangle toddlers at an event? General “help” is a fast track to no-shows and burnout—for everyone involved.

Make a list. Create actual job descriptions. Yes, even if the job is “decorate cupcakes.” People want to know what they’re signing up for—and it shows you respect their time.

Step 2: Recruit the Right People (Without Begging)

Desperation is not a good look. And guess what? You don’t need to beg. You need to inspire.

People want to be part of something meaningful. So ditch the guilt trip and tell a better story. Show them how volunteering with your organization makes a difference. Highlight real impact, not just tasks.

Tap into your network. Post engaging calls to action on social. Reach out to local schools, businesses, faith communities—anywhere people gather with good intentions and a bit of free time.

And yes, make it EASY to say yes. Make signing up to volunteer a simple process with fast response times. No “we’ll get back to you in 2-4 weeks” nonsense.

Step 3: Keep Them Engaged So They Don’t Disappear

You know what turns volunteers into ghosts? Confusion. Boredom. Chaos. Feeling like an extra, not part of the show.

Set people up for success. Train them. Communicate early and often. Introduce them to other team members. Check in after the first shift. Ask for feedback.

And for the love of all things nonprofit, don’t leave them standing around with no direction. A volunteer who shows up and feels useless may not show up again.

Step 4: Make Them Feel Valued (Hint: It Doesn’t Take Much)

Here’s a little secret: Appreciation doesn’t need to be a big production. A handwritten note. A quick thank-you email. A public shoutout. A bagel. These little gestures go a long, long way.

Better yet—make your volunteers feel seen. Learn their names. Ask about their experience. Invite them to share ideas. Remind them they’re part of the mission.

People don’t volunteer for the glory. But they do need to know they matter.

Bottom Line:

A stellar volunteer program doesn't require a six-figure budget or a full-time coordinator. It takes clarity, connection, and care. And if you can afford a volunteer coordinator—even part-time—go for it. A dedicated person managing volunteer relationships can be a game changer. But if that’s not in the budget, don’t panic. Just make sure someone on your team owns the role of supporting and stewarding volunteers. They deserve more than a once-a-year thank-you email and a T-shirt that almost fits.

Respect your volunteers, and they’ll move mountains for you.

Now, go forth and build that dream team!

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