The fall fundraising season has finally arrived! That means now is the perfect time to start thinking about your organization’s charity fundraising events! Follow these five simple steps to find volunteers for your upcoming fundraisers.
1. Social Networking
Networking, whether one-on-one or on the web, is the consistent go-to resource for successful volunteer sourcing. Of course, part of that networking has to be social media networking! If you don’t already have a social media presence, creating a Facebook, Instagram and Twitter account for your organization is a great start. When looking for volunteers using Facebook, post information that include keywords like Charity, Fundraiser, Volunteer, Community Service, and other similar terms. You can also post in public Facebook groups to optimize the number of people viewing your posts. When looking for volunteers using Instagram and Twitter, use topic-specific hashtags and keywords that help your potential volunteers search for information on areas in which they are interested. And, don’t forget to be include compelling messaging and images in every post! Social media networking is a great way to create awareness about your cause and cultivate volunteers for your charity fundraisers.
2. Document and Exhibit Accomplishments
Showing off awards or any other documented achievements can be highly appealing to potential volunteers. It’s important to also prominently promote volunteer opportunities that your organization has to offer. This will make it clear you’re looking and encouraging volunteers to join your fundraising team.
3. Participate in Recruitment Conventions
Give an informational talk about your organization at local high schools and colleges to ramp up volunteer opportunities. Be sure to give students ideas about how they might be able to contribute as a volunteer, and what they could gain from their experience at your organization. You can also set up stands at local fairs and music festivals to help recruit volunteers and spread the word about the work you do for the community.
4. Advertise Your Organization Locally
Make flyers advertising your interest in finding volunteers, and post them in public places. You can post these flyers in coffee shops, grocery stores, local retail stores, parks and many other venues. You should post your flyers anywhere they will be visible to the eye of the public — your potential volunteers!
5. Promote the Benefits to Volunteering
If you have some funds budgeted for finding new volunteers, consider throwing a party, a meet-and-greet or some other small gathering. This will give the people who might be interested in volunteering an opportunity to meet you and the rest of your team. Potential volunteers will see the community you’ve developed, and have the time to learn about the opportunities you have available in a casual setting.