Thanks for the replies. I should have mentioned that we have tried awarding volunteers in our monthly newsletter. That didn't go well, so we tried recognizing a 'team' each month; that didn't really go well, either. We do have Quarterly Volunteer (in-person) Meetings, where we've tried to list our top-hourly volunteers, but the ones that have been here long-term but are still employed, feel just as dedicated but can't come in as often, so they feel like it's not fair. We have a Volunteer Appreciation Holiday party at the end of the year to thank them all, which they do enjoy.
I do like Mishelle's idea of our staff recognizing volunteers, but would have to have each department recognize someone, so off-site volunteers (fosters, events, etc.) can be included. Lastly, I should note that we now have a Wildlife Center about 40 minutes from the Shelter, and a new low-cost animal clinic about 20 miles away, so I'm also trying to include those volunteers.
I do also like Fay's idea of rewarding volunteers for other things like excellent cat skills, dog skills, etc., besides the same rewards for most hours, etc.
Thanks again!!
~Bonny
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Bonny Birch
Volunteer Manager
Palm Springs Animal Shelter
Palm Springs, CA
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-27-2025 06:57 AM
From: Mishelle Gray
Subject: Volunteer Question
We have this recognition conundrum with staff and volunteers. We have decided to have the recognition level-based (like official name tag after serving 125 hours) and then do random recognition by nomination with a random draw wheel program...
Basically everyone can be nominated by a staff member on fellow volunteer over the month. Then all nominees are entered into an impartial drawing for a monthly prize.
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Mishelle Gray
Volunteer Manager
Greenville Humane Society
SC
Original Message:
Sent: 09-26-2025 10:25 AM
From: Bonny Birch
Subject: Volunteer Question
I'm wondering what other shelters do about rewarding volunteers without upsetting other volunteers? We currently have 600 volunteers, about half are actively helping in the shelter (dog/cat/puppy teams, medical, etc) whereas others do offsite events (fundraisers, adoption events, etc).
There have been times where we have tried recognizing volunteers for going above and beyond, but it seems that somehow, other volunteers get upset or offended; either they have been here longer, put in more hours, help in more areas, etc. etc.
I was just wondering if anyone has run into this type of situation, or if you have any ideas that you can think of, I would greatly appreciate it!!
Thanks,
~Bonny
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)
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Bonny Birch
Volunteer Manager
Palm Springs Animal Shelter
Palm Springs, CA
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