Susan Schwartz, MS PMP’s Post

As we kick off National Volunteer Appreciation Month tomorrow, I'm reminded of the profound impact that building genuine, meaningful relationships can have on volunteer retention within the nonprofit sector. My time with the Boy Scouts of America underscored the value of these connections, showing that beyond traditional management techniques, it's the personal, individualized approach that truly makes a difference. At the core of keeping volunteers engaged is recognizing their unique motivations and dedicating ourselves to developing real connections with them. This means being actively present at events, not just overseeing but participating and showing genuine appreciation for their efforts. Personal gestures like handwritten thank-you notes, acknowledging personal milestones, and remembering important dates demonstrate care and foster a deeper bond with the organization. Creating a sense of community among volunteers, where they can connect and support each other, also plays a crucial role in retention. This approach not only makes volunteers more likely to stay but also turns them into ambassadors for the cause, driven by their strong connection to the mission and to each other. The key to successful volunteer retention lies in these strong, genuine relationships. By focusing on individual connections, personal recognition, and fostering a sense of belonging, we can create a volunteer base that is not just committed for the short term but deeply dedicated to the cause for years to come. This month, let's celebrate the power of these relationships and the incredible impact they have on our missions and the volunteers who help propel them forward. So take the time to show your volunteers how much you appreciate them in a unique and meaningful way to them. #volunteers #leadership #nonprofit #thankfulforvolunteers

Day 11 of the #30DaysLinkedInOptimizationChallenge: Volunteer Experience It’s time to highlight the impact you’ve made beyond the workplace! 🌟 Your volunteer work says a lot about your values, leadership, and dedication to making a difference. Whether it’s mentoring, charity work, or sharing your skills, this experience can give your LinkedIn profile a unique edge. Let’s make your contributions count today! 💼🌍 #LinkedInChallenge #Day11 #VolunteerExperience #CareerBoost #LinkedInOptimization #ProDevs

Nonprofits thrive on the invaluable contributions of volunteers. Their dedication fills crucial gaps, enhancing operations beyond budget limitations. Volunteers offer time and talent, aiding in various capacities, from leadership roles to hands-on tasks. Witnessing individuals and corporate teams collaborate brings joy as they make our community a better place every day. Want to know more about how all this works? Are you considering making the leap from corporate to nonprofit as a career? Please reach out to me for a free consultation. #Community #Nonprofitjobs #Volunteers

You're Invited to an upcoming CONFERENCE! Minnesota Alliance for Volunteer Advancement 2023 Virtual Conference Dismantling Inequities in Volunteerism: Insight to Action December 7-8, 2023 This unique virtual conference will propel you to turn insight into action + dismantle inequities within your scope of work, the field of volunteerism, and in your community.  Attendees can expect: ✅ An agenda packed with keynotes and experience-centered breakout sessions ✅ A focus on the implementation of DEI practices in volunteer engagement ✅ A curriculum that will leave you with new energy, skills, tools, and plans, to impact and influence their programs and organizations! The content is geared towards all levels of an organization; we recommend participation by executive leadership, boards of directors, and funders, to see how they can increase organizational effectiveness by supporting a culture of belonging. 👉 Use code getconnected10 for 10% off your registration! Register Here: https://hubs.li/Q029sg-90 #volunteermanagement #volunteermanager #volunteerleader #nonprofit #volunteerleader #volunteerleaders #volunteerleadership #nonprofitorganization #philanthropy #nonprofitmanagement #nonprofittechnology #nonprofittech #volunteermanagementtechnology #volunteermanagementtech #volunteermanagementsoftware #nonprofitsoftware #nonprofitconference

Did you know there are over 23,000 nonprofit organizations in Colorado? The sector has created 330,000 jobs and generated over $40 billion in economic impact according to the Colorado Nonprofit Impact Report. The positive social impact of the nonprofit sector in our communities is vast. I think we can all agree that when it comes to Boards, it is time to do things differently. Board member recruitment and engagement have been on a steady decline for many years, and - since the pandemic - volunteerism has also declined, sharply. Head over to the link below to learn more about how utilizing #AppreciativeInquiry can help build a multi-generational board: https://bit.ly/496PO0d #BoardDiversity #VolunteerRecruitment #BoardEngagement #Leadership #Collaboration

True leaders understand the profound impact of helping others, and finding joy and fulfillment in acts of kindness. Whether big or small, these actions positively influence both the giver and the receiver. Here are a few ways true leaders can help others: Volunteering: True leaders dedicate their time and skills to local charities or community organizations, setting an example of service and commitment. Listening: They recognize the power of being present and genuinely listening, understanding that sometimes, simply being there for someone can make a significant difference. Random Acts of Kindness: True leaders engage in small gestures like paying for someone’s coffee, giving compliments, or helping with groceries, knowing these actions can brighten someone’s day. Sharing Knowledge: They are generous with their expertise, whether it's tutoring a student, providing career advice, mentoring a colleague, or helping others grow and succeed. By embodying these principles, true leaders create a ripple effect of positivity and inspiration. #leadership #inspiration #help #TrueLeadership #KindnessMatters #LeadersWhoCare #ActsOfKindness #PositiveImpact #LeadershipInAction #ServeAndInspire #LeadWithCompassion #CommunityService #MentorshipMatters #InspireGrowth #SpreadPositivity #LeadByExample #GenerousLeadership

Studies have shown that motivational speakers can profoundly impact students in educational settings. By sharing stories of perseverance and success, they can inspire students to pursue their goals with determination. These stories are even more impactful when the speaker discusses overcoming personal obstacles to achieve academic success. At our Empowering Future Leaders 2024 summer program graduation, State Representative Elgin Rogers, Jr. of District 44, shared the story of the chicken and the eagle. Program participants learned the importance of viewing themselves for who they are, not based on the situation or others' perceptions. Often, leaders only recognize their true capabilities when advised by others. Our perceptions of the environment play a pivotal role in shaping our attributions and beliefs about ourselves and others. How we view our surroundings can significantly influence our perceptions and beliefs about ourselves and others. Representative Rogers Jr.'s story gave our program participants a more transparent lens through which to view themselves and others. - Dr. Marvin Whitfield, CEO #BigBrothersBigSisters #BBBSNWO #mentorship #youthleadership #philanthropy #donate #volunteer #suicideawareness

LAST CHANCE to register for this upcoming Virtual Volunteer Management Conference! Minnesota Alliance for Volunteer Advancement 2023 Virtual Conference Dismantling Inequities in Volunteerism: Insight to Action December 7-8, 2023 Deadline to Register 5pm CST Today! This unique virtual conference will propel you to turn insight into action + dismantle inequities within your scope of work, the field of volunteerism, and in your community.  Attendees can expect: ✅ An agenda packed with keynotes and experience-centered breakout sessions ✅ A focus on the implementation of DEI practices in volunteer engagement ✅ A curriculum that will leave you with new energy, skills, tools, and plans, to impact and influence their programs and organizations! The content is geared towards all levels of an organization; we recommend participation by executive leadership, boards of directors, and funders, to see how they can increase organizational effectiveness by supporting a culture of belonging. 👉 Use code getconnected10 for 10% off your registration! Register Here: https://hubs.li/Q02b-Snp0 #volunteermanagement #volunteermanager #volunteerleader #nonprofit #volunteerleader #volunteerleaders #volunteerleadership #nonprofitorganization #philanthropy #nonprofitmanagement #nonprofittechnology #nonprofittech #volunteermanagementtechnology #volunteermanagementtech #volunteermanagementsoftware #nonprofitsoftware #nonprofitconference

Last month, our CEO, Isidora Kolar, spoke at Atlas Network’s Europe Liberty Forum, representing New Intellectuals Network. Her powerful speech emphasized the vital role of nonprofit leaders in championing liberty worldwide. She spoke about the need for more skilled researchers, storytellers, activists, and especially great managers who can maximize our limited resources: the reason behind founding the New Intellectuals Network, which is now actively empowering new pro-liberty nonprofit leaders through training, events, and mentorship. Isidora’s message was clear: collaboration and mutual support within the liberty movement are essential to achieving a freer world. If you’re considering starting a nonprofit and contributing to our mission, we invite you to reach out and see how we can help! #NewIntellectualsnetwork #NonprofitLeadership #LibertyMovement #Opportunity #NonprofitLeadership #NonprofitSuccess

Working 10+ years in non-profits and churches, I have learned (mainly through failure) that you cannot just use anyone to fit a volunteer role! I have been guilty of this because I had a lot going on, positions need to be filled, and (let's be honest) if you can pass a background check they you are in! 😂 Volunteers don’t have all the time in the world, but they do have compassion to serve others! To honor their time, we have to create opportunities for volunteers to truly shine based on their strengths and zones of genius. Using Maxwell DISC Method: **If your volunteer is D-wired, he or she may thrive in challenging environments. **If your volunteer is I-wired, he or she may shine in group activities. **If your volunteer is S-wired, he or she may flourish with activities they can start and finish. **If your volunteer is C-wired, he or she may shine in technical and detail- oriented tasks. DISC is just another great tool to better lead people and utilize their gifts! #Volunteers #ministry #nonprofitleadership #leaders #leadership #DISC #renewcoaching