Animal Welfare Professionals

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Hi Jim, a couple of thoughts on what you posted:

Shelters around the country are having issues finding volunteers right now.  Post-COVID everyone is in a tough spot, I think I saw an article saying it was anywhere from 20-40% lower rates of volunteers since 2019.  So you're not alone, and you might be doing everything right and just coming up against a real tough spot right now.

You said "in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers"  How long ago was that beginning?  It may do you some good to really lean into that, if you were previously keeping and attracting volunteers but that's become a problem on both fronts, it might be time to reevaluate your program.  You may want to literally call former volunteers and have a frank and honest conversation with them about why they stopped volunteering.  It might motivate someone to come back, but more importantly it might highlight a problem or person that made them leave in the first place.

Volunteers also might not realize what caused them to be disengaged but aside from the folks who's lives genuinely got too busy, it's almost always either a lack of training, engagement, or communication.  If volunteers feel like they don't know what to do, they feel like they're failing, and don't want to feel that way.  If they don't feel appreciated they won't stick around.  And if they don't know what's going on, or feel like scheduling and other activities they're involved in are disorganized, they get frustrated and leave.

Request in general news coverage and social media are great, but the majority of those readers probably aren't looking to be a volunteer.  Focus your recruitment on areas where volunteers might be looking for opportunities.  High schools and colleges are always in need of community service time, some businesses have volunteer groups or days that you can schedule, service organizations like Rotary, Lions, or other community clubs are always looking for projects or have like-minded members for volunteers.  Websites like Volunteermatch.com are also easy ways to get your opportunities in front of people looking.

------------------------------
Jeff Okazaki
Humane Society of Jefferson County
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Thanks, Jeff: that was a very good reply, and I'll have to read and think about it more. A Second Chance Animal Shelter is in a small, somewhat rural S.C. community, so our population is small and really spread out. We started in 1998. We are no-kill and always have been. We currently house about 150 animals. It seems that while we were getting our program up and running, and were fighting with the local government to get even a basic animal control law on the books, we attracted lots of attention, and support: everyone wanted to get involved. But gradually, as we become somewhat successful, the attitude changed somewhat. The community still knew there is an animal control problem(s!) to face but began to assume "ASCAS has got this! We just need to send in a few $$$'s to keep them going". As you probably know, sustaining a program is oftentimes much more difficult then getting something started.
You are 100% right however in that a good volunteer program has to include making sure everyone stays involved and made to feel an important part of the process. When we do get a new helper, this is an area we continue to be weak in.
Once again: thanks for the thoughtful reply.
Jim

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 08:15 AM
From: Jeff Okazaki
Subject: attracting volunteers

Hi Jim, a couple of thoughts on what you posted:

Shelters around the country are having issues finding volunteers right now.  Post-COVID everyone is in a tough spot, I think I saw an article saying it was anywhere from 20-40% lower rates of volunteers since 2019.  So you're not alone, and you might be doing everything right and just coming up against a real tough spot right now.

You said "in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers"  How long ago was that beginning?  It may do you some good to really lean into that, if you were previously keeping and attracting volunteers but that's become a problem on both fronts, it might be time to reevaluate your program.  You may want to literally call former volunteers and have a frank and honest conversation with them about why they stopped volunteering.  It might motivate someone to come back, but more importantly it might highlight a problem or person that made them leave in the first place.

Volunteers also might not realize what caused them to be disengaged but aside from the folks who's lives genuinely got too busy, it's almost always either a lack of training, engagement, or communication.  If volunteers feel like they don't know what to do, they feel like their failing, and don't want to feel that way.  If they don't feel appreciated they won't stick around.  And if they don't know what's going on, or feel like scheduling and other activities they're involved in are disorganized, they get frustrated and leave.

Request in general news coverage and social media are great, but the majority of those readers probably aren't looking to be a volunteer.  Focus your recruitment on areas where volunteers might be looking for opportunities.  High schools and colleges are always in need of community service time, some businesses have volunteer groups or days that you can schedule, service organizations like Rotary, Lions, or other community clubs are always looking for projects or have like-minded members for volunteers.  Websites like Volunteermatch.com are also easy ways to get your opportunities in front of people looking.

------------------------------
Jeff Okazaki
Humane Society of Jefferson County

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Hi Jim,
Finding reliable volunteers is a huge concern for our sanctuary as well. We too are a 100% volunteer organization including myself and my husband. We are a little different in that we don't rescue cats and dogs but take in farm, domestic and exotic animals. Our sanctuary was founded in 2017 in a rural area of south Florida and we did have an upsurge in volunteers during the pandemic. We currently have 4 volunteers who are part of our morning  "feed/clean crew". They cover feeding and cleaning of the 139 animals' feed areas, habitats and cages 3 days a week. Each of these volunteers come out once a week for 4-5 hours. The rest of the mornings and all evening feeds falls to me and my husband (when he isn't working his "day job"). We do have a few additional volunteers who help with events/fundraisers, one time projects, grant writing and pasture management.  The volunteers we do have are amazing!

Jeff made a lot of good points and we currently follow most of what he suggested. Having a clear description of what your volunteers are expected to do and communication is very important. We have a volunteer page on our website where people can go to see descriptions and we have a detailed volunteer application with questions concerning what they would like to help with. We have a fb group for volunteers only where we share not only our needs but thank you's and birthday wishes, etc. We also provide weekly text updates so that they have any changes in writing and we take the time to greet and thank them while they are here.  We give appreciation gifts regularly (usually gas cards) and have a yearly volunteer appreciation picnic. We also offer incentives such as "bring a friend" days where the volunteers can come out and spend a couple of hours with the animals and share their experience with a friend or family member. We have reached out to local high schools and a vet school program. We partner with other nonprofits, businesses and attend local events.

With that said we still have an issue finding new volunteers. The number one obstacle for us is distance. We are at least 45 minutes to an hour away from the closest towns. What we also found, is that many people find out that we have kangaroos, prairie dogs and other unusual animals, fill out the application, come out for training and never return after they've seen the "fun" animals.  We've changed our application to add a note that volunteers must have so many hours of actual volunteering before they will be allowed to work with the kangaroos, etc and offer a "job" share program if they can't commit to 4-5 hours. At this point we have started to look into grants to fund a part time caretaker. 

------------------------------
Lisa Burns
founder/VP
Farmhouse Animal and Nature Sanctuary Inc
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 08:31 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Thanks, Jeff: that was a very good reply, and I'll have to read and think about it more. A Second Chance Animal Shelter is in a small, somewhat rural S.C. community, so our population is small and really spread out. We started in 1998. We are no-kill and always have been. We currently house about 150 animals. It seems that while we were getting our program up and running, and were fighting with the local government to get even a basic animal control law on the books, we attracted lots of attention, and support: everyone wanted to get involved. But gradually, as we become somewhat successful, the attitude changed somewhat. The community still knew there is an animal control problem(s!) to face but began to assume "ASCAS has got this! We just need to send in a few $$$'s to keep them going". As you probably know, sustaining a program is oftentimes much more difficult then getting something started.
You are 100% right however in that a good volunteer program has to include making sure everyone stays involved and made to feel an important part of the process. When we do get a new helper, this is an area we continue to be weak in.
Once again: thanks for the thoughtful reply.
Jim

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 08:15 AM
From: Jeff Okazaki
Subject: attracting volunteers

Hi Jim, a couple of thoughts on what you posted:

Shelters around the country are having issues finding volunteers right now.  Post-COVID everyone is in a tough spot, I think I saw an article saying it was anywhere from 20-40% lower rates of volunteers since 2019.  So you're not alone, and you might be doing everything right and just coming up against a real tough spot right now.

You said "in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers"  How long ago was that beginning?  It may do you some good to really lean into that, if you were previously keeping and attracting volunteers but that's become a problem on both fronts, it might be time to reevaluate your program.  You may want to literally call former volunteers and have a frank and honest conversation with them about why they stopped volunteering.  It might motivate someone to come back, but more importantly it might highlight a problem or person that made them leave in the first place.

Volunteers also might not realize what caused them to be disengaged but aside from the folks who's lives genuinely got too busy, it's almost always either a lack of training, engagement, or communication.  If volunteers feel like they don't know what to do, they feel like their failing, and don't want to feel that way.  If they don't feel appreciated they won't stick around.  And if they don't know what's going on, or feel like scheduling and other activities they're involved in are disorganized, they get frustrated and leave.

Request in general news coverage and social media are great, but the majority of those readers probably aren't looking to be a volunteer.  Focus your recruitment on areas where volunteers might be looking for opportunities.  High schools and colleges are always in need of community service time, some businesses have volunteer groups or days that you can schedule, service organizations like Rotary, Lions, or other community clubs are always looking for projects or have like-minded members for volunteers.  Websites like Volunteermatch.com are also easy ways to get your opportunities in front of people looking.

------------------------------
Jeff Okazaki
Humane Society of Jefferson County

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Kangaroos!!! Prairie Dogs!!! And we think we're special when we get a Mastiff or Bloodhound...
...anyway, a useful and thought-provoking reply from you. I will make use of it.

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-03-2023 05:11 AM
From: Lisa Burns
Subject: attracting volunteers

Hi Jim,
Finding reliable volunteers is a huge concern for our sanctuary as well. We too are a 100% volunteer organization including myself and my husband. We are a little different in that we don't rescue cats and dogs but take in farm, domestic and exotic animals. Our sanctuary was founded in 2017 in a rural area of south Florida and we did have an upsurge in volunteers during the pandemic. We currently have 4 volunteers who are part of our morning  "feed/clean crew". They cover feeding and cleaning of the 139 animals' feed areas, habitats and cages 3 days a week. Each of these volunteers come out once a week for 4-5 hours. The rest of the mornings and all evening feeds falls to me and my husband (when he isn't working his "day job"). We do have a few additional volunteers who help with events/fundraisers, one time projects, grant writing and pasture management.  The volunteers we do have are amazing!

Jeff made a lot of good points and we currently follow most of what he suggested. Having a clear description of what your volunteers are expected to do and communication is very important. We have a volunteer page on our website where people can go to see descriptions and we have a detailed volunteer application with questions concerning what they would like to help with. We have a fb group for volunteers only where we share not only our needs but thank you's and birthday wishes, etc. We also provide weekly text updates so that they have any changes in writing and we take the time to greet and thank them while they are here.  We give appreciation gifts regularly (usually gas cards) and have a yearly volunteer appreciation picnic. We also offer incentives such as "bring a friend" days where the volunteers can come out and spend a couple of hours with the animals and share their experience with a friend or family member. We have reached out to local high schools and a vet school program. We partner with other nonprofits, businesses and attend local events.

With that said we still have an issue finding new volunteers. The number one obstacle for us is distance. We are at least 45 minutes to an hour away from the closest towns. What we also found, is that many people find out that we have kangaroos, prairie dogs and other unusual animals, fill out the application, come out for training and never return after they've seen the "fun" animals.  We've changed our application to add a note that volunteers must have so many hours of actual volunteering before they will be allowed to work with the kangaroos, etc and offer a "job" share program if they can't commit to 4-5 hours. At this point we have started to look into grants to fund a part time caretaker. 

------------------------------
Lisa Burns
founder/VP
Farmhouse Animal and Nature Sanctuary Inc

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 08:31 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Thanks, Jeff: that was a very good reply, and I'll have to read and think about it more. A Second Chance Animal Shelter is in a small, somewhat rural S.C. community, so our population is small and really spread out. We started in 1998. We are no-kill and always have been. We currently house about 150 animals. It seems that while we were getting our program up and running, and were fighting with the local government to get even a basic animal control law on the books, we attracted lots of attention, and support: everyone wanted to get involved. But gradually, as we become somewhat successful, the attitude changed somewhat. The community still knew there is an animal control problem(s!) to face but began to assume "ASCAS has got this! We just need to send in a few $$$'s to keep them going". As you probably know, sustaining a program is oftentimes much more difficult then getting something started.
You are 100% right however in that a good volunteer program has to include making sure everyone stays involved and made to feel an important part of the process. When we do get a new helper, this is an area we continue to be weak in.
Once again: thanks for the thoughtful reply.
Jim

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 08:15 AM
From: Jeff Okazaki
Subject: attracting volunteers

Hi Jim, a couple of thoughts on what you posted:

Shelters around the country are having issues finding volunteers right now.  Post-COVID everyone is in a tough spot, I think I saw an article saying it was anywhere from 20-40% lower rates of volunteers since 2019.  So you're not alone, and you might be doing everything right and just coming up against a real tough spot right now.

You said "in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers"  How long ago was that beginning?  It may do you some good to really lean into that, if you were previously keeping and attracting volunteers but that's become a problem on both fronts, it might be time to reevaluate your program.  You may want to literally call former volunteers and have a frank and honest conversation with them about why they stopped volunteering.  It might motivate someone to come back, but more importantly it might highlight a problem or person that made them leave in the first place.

Volunteers also might not realize what caused them to be disengaged but aside from the folks who's lives genuinely got too busy, it's almost always either a lack of training, engagement, or communication.  If volunteers feel like they don't know what to do, they feel like their failing, and don't want to feel that way.  If they don't feel appreciated they won't stick around.  And if they don't know what's going on, or feel like scheduling and other activities they're involved in are disorganized, they get frustrated and leave.

Request in general news coverage and social media are great, but the majority of those readers probably aren't looking to be a volunteer.  Focus your recruitment on areas where volunteers might be looking for opportunities.  High schools and colleges are always in need of community service time, some businesses have volunteer groups or days that you can schedule, service organizations like Rotary, Lions, or other community clubs are always looking for projects or have like-minded members for volunteers.  Websites like Volunteermatch.com are also easy ways to get your opportunities in front of people looking.

------------------------------
Jeff Okazaki
Humane Society of Jefferson County

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Hi Jim,

We ended up having our biggest year yet of volunteers getting involved in 2022. We have been lucky to have not had an issue in this area. We too are located in what's considered a rural community and we're really spread out. I would suggest really taking a look at your training process and what you ask of your volunteers in terms of commitment, scheduling, etc. Every shelter is different and I don't believe there is a "one size fits all" program out there, but there are things you can look at and make changes to. 

A lot of volunteers nowadays are looking for flexibility. I reevaluate my trainings with my staff every year at least once, if not twice, and cut out what we can and add in what might be needed. But I keep my training very simple and easy for people with safety of course being the most important part. We also have a very flexible volunteer program to try to be as inclusive as possible. That includes youth as volunteers, no scheduling at the shelter, and a very achievable monthly time commitment (2hrs a month). I think the easier it is to get involved and the more flexibility you offer, the more doable and enticing it is for folks. Hopefully, that is helpful.

------------------------------
Erin Ellis
Community Engagement Director
Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe

---------
Foster Program & Volunteer Management Specialist
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Msg back to Erin, re: my post about finding volunteers:
Thank you Erin: it's obvious you have thought about the issue at length. Your organization may be larger or have more internal resources than ASCAS. We have been around since '98, currently house about 120 dogs and cats on our 47 acres and in our 7 buildings and 70 outdoor kennels, and are (of course) no/low kill. We do this with a staff of 4, so volunteers are vital to us. But we are unable to dedicate a person to volunteerism. Your comments about having a clear and frequently re-visited set of goals and a formal outline of duties makes sense. But what I tried to convey, unsuccessfully, is our difficulty in even getting potential volunteers "thru the door", physically or electronically stopping in, to even broach the  subject with them. We need new ideas on how to entice them / spark their interest in at least talking to us!!

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-03-2023 01:54 PM
From: ERIN ELLIS
Subject: attracting volunteers

Hi Jim,

We ended up having our biggest year yet of volunteers getting involved in 2022. We have been lucky to have not had an issue in this area. We too are located in what's considered a rural community and we're really spread out. I would suggest really taking a look at your training process and what you ask of your volunteers in terms of commitment, scheduling, etc. Every shelter is different and I don't believe there is a "one size fits all" program out there, but there are things you can look at and make changes to. 

A lot of volunteers nowadays are looking for flexibility. I reevaluate my trainings with my staff every year at least once, if not twice, and cut out what we can and add in what might be needed. But I keep my training very simple and easy for people with safety of course being the most important part. We also have a very flexible volunteer program to try to be as inclusive as possible. That includes youth as volunteers, no scheduling at the shelter, and a very achievable monthly time commitment (2hrs a month). I think the easier it is to get involved and the more flexibility you offer, the more doable and enticing it is for folks. Hopefully, that is helpful.

------------------------------
Erin Ellis
Community Engagement Director
Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe

---------
Foster Program & Volunteer Management Specialist

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Hey, Jim:
I empathize with the challenges you face. Adopt Me! Bluegrass Pet Rescue (AMB) is an all volunteer rescue. We have an incredible team, people who give hours a day or 20 minutes - literally all they have to spare. Yet we still struggle with reaching new volunteers, or finding current volunteers able to take on projects to expand our services.
My personal outlook is that CONNECTION is the path to volunteers. I was recruited by a friend who simply talked about her involvement, her love of, her passion for, all things AMB. She wasn't recruiting me per se; we were friends talking. I, in turn, did the same. Animal lovers  are naturally drawn in, because the mission, training, environment, people and the ... flow  ... foster good will, happiness and positive outcomes - despite the tough situations we often face.
My suggestion is to focus on beginning conversations with one targeted group, be it veterans, students needing service hours, parents with young children (there are ways for them to help), seniors and differently abled (them too!).
Start perhaps with walking groups, running clubs, gyms, etc. Focus on creating the relationship, listening to their mission and how people coming from their organizations could benefit. Then be that benefit. Maybe create cross-marketing campaigns if you develop a collaborative effort with those groups. The short-term goal is to recruit volunteers for a specific reason (i.e., they walk the dogs). Long-term, that small core becomes ambassadors in recruiting more, through their friendships.
A friend is what prompted me to join AMB. My passion for helping animals AND a  welcoming and flexible environment at AMB prompted me to stay and share their mission with others. Start small to get the ball rolling. I really hope this helps.
Amy

------------------------------
Amy Charles
volunteer
Adopt Me! Bluegrass Pet Rescue
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-04-2023 05:34 PM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Msg back to Erin, re: my post about finding volunteers:
Thank you Erin: it's obvious you have thought about the issue at length. Your organization may be larger or have more internal resources than ASCAS. We have been around since '98, currently house about 120 dogs and cats on our 47 acres and in our 7 buildings and 70 outdoor kennels, and are (of course) no/low kill. We do this with a staff of 4, so volunteers are vital to us. But we are unable to dedicate a person to volunteerism. Your comments about having a clear and frequently re-visited set of goals and a formal outline of duties makes sense. But what I tried to convey, unsuccessfully, is our difficulty in even getting potential volunteers "thru the door", physically or electronically stopping in, to even broach the  subject with them. We need new ideas on how to entice them / spark their interest in at least talking to us!!

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter

Original Message:
Sent: 02-03-2023 01:54 PM
From: ERIN ELLIS
Subject: attracting volunteers

Hi Jim,

We ended up having our biggest year yet of volunteers getting involved in 2022. We have been lucky to have not had an issue in this area. We too are located in what's considered a rural community and we're really spread out. I would suggest really taking a look at your training process and what you ask of your volunteers in terms of commitment, scheduling, etc. Every shelter is different and I don't believe there is a "one size fits all" program out there, but there are things you can look at and make changes to. 

A lot of volunteers nowadays are looking for flexibility. I reevaluate my trainings with my staff every year at least once, if not twice, and cut out what we can and add in what might be needed. But I keep my training very simple and easy for people with safety of course being the most important part. We also have a very flexible volunteer program to try to be as inclusive as possible. That includes youth as volunteers, no scheduling at the shelter, and a very achievable monthly time commitment (2hrs a month). I think the easier it is to get involved and the more flexibility you offer, the more doable and enticing it is for folks. Hopefully, that is helpful.

------------------------------
Erin Ellis
Community Engagement Director
Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe

---------
Foster Program & Volunteer Management Specialist

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Hi Amy - thanks so much for posting this. We too are a rescue that's 100% volunteer and the ones we have are terrific but we often call them the "usual suspects" :P meaning the same people often take on all the tasks. We usually look for volunteers (mainly as fosters) on our FB page or our own pages but I hadn't thought of reaching out in such a personal way formally. I have a couple of friends who have become fosters but not nearly enough. We're national so it's not like we have a core community we can tap but all us coordinators can tap into our own community groups as you suggested.  Will have to start rethinking where we look.

------------------------------
Susan Leavitt
National Coordinator, East Coast, VP Board
American Maltese Association Rescue
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-04-2023 05:34 PM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Msg back to Erin, re: my post about finding volunteers:
Thank you Erin: it's obvious you have thought about the issue at length. Your organization may be larger or have more internal resources than ASCAS. We have been around since '98, currently house about 120 dogs and cats on our 47 acres and in our 7 buildings and 70 outdoor kennels, and are (of course) no/low kill. We do this with a staff of 4, so volunteers are vital to us. But we are unable to dedicate a person to volunteerism. Your comments about having a clear and frequently re-visited set of goals and a formal outline of duties makes sense. But what I tried to convey, unsuccessfully, is our difficulty in even getting potential volunteers "thru the door", physically or electronically stopping in, to even broach the  subject with them. We need new ideas on how to entice them / spark their interest in at least talking to us!!

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter

Original Message:
Sent: 02-03-2023 01:54 PM
From: ERIN ELLIS
Subject: attracting volunteers

Hi Jim,

We ended up having our biggest year yet of volunteers getting involved in 2022. We have been lucky to have not had an issue in this area. We too are located in what's considered a rural community and we're really spread out. I would suggest really taking a look at your training process and what you ask of your volunteers in terms of commitment, scheduling, etc. Every shelter is different and I don't believe there is a "one size fits all" program out there, but there are things you can look at and make changes to. 

A lot of volunteers nowadays are looking for flexibility. I reevaluate my trainings with my staff every year at least once, if not twice, and cut out what we can and add in what might be needed. But I keep my training very simple and easy for people with safety of course being the most important part. We also have a very flexible volunteer program to try to be as inclusive as possible. That includes youth as volunteers, no scheduling at the shelter, and a very achievable monthly time commitment (2hrs a month). I think the easier it is to get involved and the more flexibility you offer, the more doable and enticing it is for folks. Hopefully, that is helpful.

------------------------------
Erin Ellis
Community Engagement Director
Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe

---------
Foster Program & Volunteer Management Specialist

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Our public Facebook page has 50,000 followers we communicate there about the invaluable things our volunteers do to show appreciation and then also direct appeals for specific tasks. Also our fosters and home checkers are always on the lookout for fosters and volunteers. They know to direct potentials to the website application.  Anyone having a convo with anyone in your organization about adopting an animal should be encouraged to join. They are your prime target audience!

------------------------------
Linda Lea
Big Bones Canine Rescue
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Thank You, Linda Lea, for your reply! Every new idea helps!
JimW

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-06-2023 09:37 AM
From: Linda Lea
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our public Facebook page has 50,000 followers we communicate there about the invaluable things our volunteers do to show appreciation and then also direct appeals for specific tasks. Also our fosters and home checkers are always on the lookout for fosters and volunteers. They know to direct potentials to the website application.  Anyone having a convo with anyone in your organization about adopting an animal should be encouraged to join. They are your prime target audience!

------------------------------
Linda Lea
Big Bones Canine Rescue

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

I'm working on same type issues.  Getting volunteers to commit to more than a one time visit would help our rescue. Trying to rack my brain to set up some type incentives for volunteers.   Thanks for posting. I know it's a need for many

------------------------------
Laura Coan
Volunteer
Novastar Rescue
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Regarding volunteers who show up once and bail, it's good to set expectations early in the application process. Add wording such as "Volunteers who can commit to 4 hours a week for six months are the most helpful to us. Are you able to commit to a schedule like that? If not please describe how much time and what length of time you are able to give."  That can help to weed out the one-offs. Getting volunteers into your data management system, reviewing their apps, going over safety protocols, training to tasks is an investment of time that needs to be productive for the organization. 

------------------------------
Linda Lea
Big Bones Canine Rescue
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-27-2023 06:15 PM
From: Laura Coan
Subject: attracting volunteers

I'm working on same type issues.  Getting volunteers to commit to more than a one time visit would help our rescue. Trying to rack my brain to set up some type incentives for volunteers.   Thanks for posting. I know it's a need for many

------------------------------
Laura Coan
Volunteer
Novastar Rescue

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

I admit to having read the first few posts but not all. A couple observations/ideas: you and your volunteers know what you need. Ask! In the "real world" all major companies survey their customers. Create a survey - could be 3 questions to start. As volunteers for their thoughts, observations, ideas, "what would make it better." Gather the results. Report the results to local media. Act on the results - pick ONE idea to start. 

Second thought: your volunteers are a KEY community for local businesses! Local caring people who act on their passions. Local businesses need help to get people into their store or restaurant. Ask for discount coupons to give to volunteers as Thank You's. Under promise, over deliver is the key! Free coffee or soda with meal, free dessert with entree, the business will know what to offer. You have this sincere, local, captive audience of volunteers and followers. How wonderful a local business could be thanked publicly for supporting you through these coupons - free advertising for them, volunteers feel appreciated.  Nowadays, could be a simple QR code placed on your volunteer signin / out sheet. 

Obviously, the  best option would be a good, large employer in your immediate area, with a human resources department built to engage their employees - our local Chevron refinery makes much of their local Volunteer days.

Great gratitude for everyone working to save lives.  

------------------------------
Norma Wallace
Consultant
Writing for Results
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Novastar is working diligently to attract volunteers with a focus on community leaders to girls scouts and Boy Scouts.  We are adding a mo they work day where we ask volunteers to come by and just help with whatever the rescue needs that month.  We are asking volunteers who can't be physically working to possible bring a bag of food or other supplies needed for the dogs.   We are in planning stage right now and plan to implement in April and continue  through the end of year and evaluate what works and what doesn't.   Just my ideas!

------------------------------
Laura Coan
Volunteer
Novastar Rescue
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-13-2023 02:00 PM
From: Norma Wallace
Subject: attracting volunteers

I admit to having read the first few posts but not all. A couple observations/ideas: you and your volunteers know what you need. Ask! In the "real world" all major companies survey their customers. Create a survey - could be 3 questions to start. As volunteers for their thoughts, observations, ideas, "what would make it better." Gather the results. Report the results to local media. Act on the results - pick ONE idea to start. 

Second thought: your volunteers are a KEY community for local businesses! Local caring people who act on their passions. Local businesses need help to get people into their store or restaurant. Ask for discount coupons to give to volunteers as Thank You's. Under promise, over deliver is the key! Free coffee or soda with meal, free dessert with entree, the business will know what to offer. You have this sincere, local, captive audience of volunteers and followers. How wonderful a local business could be thanked publicly for supporting you through these coupons - free advertising for them, volunteers feel appreciated.  Nowadays, could be a simple QR code placed on your volunteer signin / out sheet. 

Obviously, the  best option would be a good, large employer in your immediate area, with a human resources department built to engage their employees - our local Chevron refinery makes much of their local Volunteer days.

Great gratitude for everyone working to save lives.  

------------------------------
Norma Wallace
Consultant
Writing for Results

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Thank You, Norma; Thank You Laura for both taking time to help us at ASCAS with finding volunteers.

Jim

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-13-2023 04:24 PM
From: Laura Coan
Subject: attracting volunteers

Novastar is working diligently to attract volunteers with a focus on community leaders to girls scouts and Boy Scouts.  We are adding a mo they work day where we ask volunteers to come by and just help with whatever the rescue needs that month.  We are asking volunteers who can't be physically working to possible bring a bag of food or other supplies needed for the dogs.   We are in planning stage right now and plan to implement in April and continue  through the end of year and evaluate what works and what doesn't.   Just my ideas!

------------------------------
Laura Coan
Volunteer
Novastar Rescue

Original Message:
Sent: 03-13-2023 02:00 PM
From: Norma Wallace
Subject: attracting volunteers

I admit to having read the first few posts but not all. A couple observations/ideas: you and your volunteers know what you need. Ask! In the "real world" all major companies survey their customers. Create a survey - could be 3 questions to start. As volunteers for their thoughts, observations, ideas, "what would make it better." Gather the results. Report the results to local media. Act on the results - pick ONE idea to start. 

Second thought: your volunteers are a KEY community for local businesses! Local caring people who act on their passions. Local businesses need help to get people into their store or restaurant. Ask for discount coupons to give to volunteers as Thank You's. Under promise, over deliver is the key! Free coffee or soda with meal, free dessert with entree, the business will know what to offer. You have this sincere, local, captive audience of volunteers and followers. How wonderful a local business could be thanked publicly for supporting you through these coupons - free advertising for them, volunteers feel appreciated.  Nowadays, could be a simple QR code placed on your volunteer signin / out sheet. 

Obviously, the  best option would be a good, large employer in your immediate area, with a human resources department built to engage their employees - our local Chevron refinery makes much of their local Volunteer days.

Great gratitude for everyone working to save lives.  

------------------------------
Norma Wallace
Consultant
Writing for Results

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Last last thought. I have had a couple experiences developing volunteers. The single most critical factor is to offer opportunities, precisely defined, clearly written descriptions of exactly what you expect, along with outcomes for the volunteer. This can be difficult at first (I had some sales and tourism marketing background which I think made this easier.) 

Individuals may need to boost their resume, and not realize that volunteering with you Will Achieve this. Think of volunteer descriptions as portions of resumes: under general supervision, take responsibility for care and feeding of X number animals on a daily / weekly / monthly basis, assessing and reporting any unusual behaviors -- this takes Litterbox Cleaning to a different level of respect. :-)

Hope that made sense. I was successful as a volunteer coordinator for a 600-person week-long conference (6am-10pm needs) with zero planning (organizers were NOT organized)... by breaking everything down to the tiniest component. Very quickly, the "cream" volunteers rose to the top and I could delegate pieces to them. 

------------------------------
Norma Wallace
Consultant
Writing for Results
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Like many, we also have a hard time recruiting and retaining volunteers for our cat rescue. We post photos showing volunteers in action that emphasize some of the fun aspects (see attached), but it's true that general cat care is not very glamorous. Last year for volunteer appreciation week, we gave gift bags to each volunteer, and asked each one to pose for a photo with one of our cats they would like to feature (more attached)

. This year we are giving thank you cards with an invitation to a volunteer picnic coming up soon.

We had not thought of pointing out the resume-building potential of volunteering and think that's something we can add to our posts. 

------------------------------
Pamela Adelmann
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-13-2023 02:08 PM
From: Norma Wallace
Subject: attracting volunteers

Last last thought. I have had a couple experiences developing volunteers. The single most critical factor is to offer opportunities, precisely defined, clearly written descriptions of exactly what you expect, along with outcomes for the volunteer. This can be difficult at first (I had some sales and tourism marketing background which I think made this easier.) 

Individuals may need to boost their resume, and not realize that volunteering with you Will Achieve this. Think of volunteer descriptions as portions of resumes: under general supervision, take responsibility for care and feeding of X number animals on a daily / weekly / monthly basis, assessing and reporting any unusual behaviors -- this takes Litterbox Cleaning to a different level of respect. :-)

Hope that made sense. I was successful as a volunteer coordinator for a 600-person week-long conference (6am-10pm needs) with zero planning (organizers were NOT organized)... by breaking everything down to the tiniest component. Very quickly, the "cream" volunteers rose to the top and I could delegate pieces to them. 

------------------------------
Norma Wallace
Consultant
Writing for Results

Original Message:
Sent: 01-30-2023 07:30 AM
From: jim wieszczyk
Subject: attracting volunteers

Our shelter is well established in our community. And while its never enough, we have good support with donations. But while in the beginning it was somewhat easy to get/keep volunteers for hands on help, it has become almost impossible to attract new ones. We do a good job of staying in the public eye, and almost always include a pitch to volunteer, we get very few takers. The opportunities go well beyond just helping with the dogs, cats around the shelter, and would include public relations, fundraising,, a foster program and more. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can motivate our supporters to become more active???
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
jim wieszczyk
Director
A Second Chance Animal Shelter
------------------------------