Disciplines
Nonprofit Administration and Management
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Volunteer programs have long been utilized by the nonprofit sector to meet growing societal needs in a cost-effective manner. However, many organizations remain unaware or resistant to volunteer management protocols that could potentially increase agency capacity and reach. Based upon existing research, industry best practices, and organizational changes needed in light of COVID-19, this project evaluates the importance of effective volunteer management as a capacity building exercise for nonprofits. The data collected were used to develop a volunteer management manual for Cherokee Family Violence Center (CFVC), a domestic violence service agency in north metropolitan Atlanta.
The overarching research question examined was How does an effective volunteer management program impact operation of a nonprofit agency? Utilizing existing literature on volunteer management and retention, capacity building, and management practices along with a descriptive analysis of past CFVC volunteer surveys, a volunteer management manual was produced for the agency. The literature suggested it was important to create a manual that streamlined the volunteer onboarding process. Materials must also encourage volunteer investment by presenting opportunities for personal development and recognition. The manual centered around the operational needs of the agency and incorporates industry best practices and procedures.
In the case of CFVC, the volunteer management manual can be utilized to present basic onboarding information and forms to individuals interested in serving this population, allowing volunteers to feel engaged from the beginning of their onboarding process. The project findings indicate that volunteer management is most effective when coupled with open communication, access to critical information, personal development opportunities, and rewards. As the needs of CFVC change, the manual should be updated to include policies and procedures deemed critical to agency, client, and volunteer health and safety.
Keywords: Volunteer Management, Nonprofit Organizations, Volunteer Manual
Academic department under which the project should be listed
WCHHS - Social Work and Human Services
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Dr. Jennifer Wade-Berg
Included in
Best Practices in Volunteer Management for Cherokee Family Violence Center
Volunteer programs have long been utilized by the nonprofit sector to meet growing societal needs in a cost-effective manner. However, many organizations remain unaware or resistant to volunteer management protocols that could potentially increase agency capacity and reach. Based upon existing research, industry best practices, and organizational changes needed in light of COVID-19, this project evaluates the importance of effective volunteer management as a capacity building exercise for nonprofits. The data collected were used to develop a volunteer management manual for Cherokee Family Violence Center (CFVC), a domestic violence service agency in north metropolitan Atlanta.
The overarching research question examined was How does an effective volunteer management program impact operation of a nonprofit agency? Utilizing existing literature on volunteer management and retention, capacity building, and management practices along with a descriptive analysis of past CFVC volunteer surveys, a volunteer management manual was produced for the agency. The literature suggested it was important to create a manual that streamlined the volunteer onboarding process. Materials must also encourage volunteer investment by presenting opportunities for personal development and recognition. The manual centered around the operational needs of the agency and incorporates industry best practices and procedures.
In the case of CFVC, the volunteer management manual can be utilized to present basic onboarding information and forms to individuals interested in serving this population, allowing volunteers to feel engaged from the beginning of their onboarding process. The project findings indicate that volunteer management is most effective when coupled with open communication, access to critical information, personal development opportunities, and rewards. As the needs of CFVC change, the manual should be updated to include policies and procedures deemed critical to agency, client, and volunteer health and safety.
Keywords: Volunteer Management, Nonprofit Organizations, Volunteer Manual