The New Normal: Adapting Volunteer Strategies Post-Pandemic
The New Normal: Adapting Volunteer Strategies Post-Pandemic
POSTED ON FEBRUARY 28, 2025 BY COBI SHARPE
In the wake of the pandemic, the volunteer landscape has gone through significant changes, prompting nonprofits to adapt their volunteer engagement strategies to align with new volunteer expectations.
Understanding the New Normal
The concept of the “new normal” in the volunteer sector means a shift in demographics and volunteering preferences. New generations are now becoming involved, each with their own needs and preferences. Methods of “traditional volunteering” aren’t meeting the needs of new generations who have adapted to using technology for everything. This means that nonprofits have to get creative to start engaging these potential volunteers.
Emerging Trends in Volunteerism
The demand for short-term and flexible volunteering roles is growing. People are now looking for virtual and hybrid volunteering roles that pack a punch. They want to see their efforts reflected in the nonprofit mission’s impact, but with less commitment. Strategies for retaining a new generation of volunteers should focus on offering roles that provide flexibility and real impact, respecting their personal and professional commitments.
Utilizing Technology
- Use technology for efficient volunteer management (Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or WhatsApp).
- Digital tools can help to enhance communication and organization (VolunteerHub, SignUpGenius, Trello, Asana, Salesforce for Nonprofits).
- Technology provides easy access to sharing resources and information.
- Improves volunteer experience and engagement.
Building Relationships and Trust
- Strong relationships nurture a sense of community and belonging.
- Clear communication and a supportive environment builds trust.
- Encouraging ongoing commitment and satisfaction among volunteers.
Challenges and Solutions
- Nonprofits face challenges balancing remote and in-person roles.
- Maintaining volunteer engagement is critical.
- Flexibility and creativity are key to overcoming these obstacles.
- Successful adaptation ensures ongoing volunteer engagement.
Understanding the emerging trends, utilizing technology, and being able to adapt to flexibility will help to find interested volunteers. Nonprofits that embrace change and innovate their approach to volunteer management will continue to make impactful contributions in their communities by engaging the volunteers they need.