Keeping volunteers engaged while programs and services are suspended due to COVID-19

In the best of times, good volunteer management entails keeping volunteers engaged – with their tasks, with the clients they serve, with the mission of your organization. After all, this is probably what drew them to you in the first place, and certainly is what motivates them to stay with you. What to do when programs are cancelled or pulled back and volunteer activity is curtailed or called off altogether? For some volunteers, what they do with your organization is what provides them with a vital social connection to their community. For others it is what gives them a creative […]

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Social Distancing in the Social Sector: The Volunteering Lens of Covid 19

Volunteer engagement, within the context of a public health crisis, raises many questions as organizations assess the evolving risks and needs in our communities. Ramping-up, closing-down, or modifying services?  Some organizations have increased their services to respond to the enhanced vulnerabilities that come with social distancing and self-isolation.  Others are attending to the anxieties and practical issues that arise from loss of work.  Other organizations are moving some in-person volunteer opportunities to virtual and developing new online volunteer opportunities to keep volunteers connected.  Amidst cancellations and postponements of activities and events, we have seen the emergence of virtual gatherings, virtual […]

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How to celebrate National Volunteer Week virtually

The global outbreak of COVID-19 has changed the day-to-day lives of all Canadians. Health care workers, emergency managers and frontline staff are working tirelessly to provide essential services during this time of crisis. Many Canadians are self-isolating or practicing social distancing to help prevent the spread of the virus. This has led to many events, including celebrations of volunteers, being cancelled to protect the public. However, volunteer recognition isn’t just about events. There are plenty of ways to recognize your volunteers and celebrate their efforts without gathering in person. Here are our 10 ways you can virtually applaud your volunteers […]

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