Ten Elements of a Successful Volunteer Program

							                       Ten Elements of a Successful Volunteer Program
Indicate your agreement with the statements below: 4-Agree; 3-Agree Somewhat; 2-Agree Little; 1-Disagree

1. Our organization shares values and has a positive culture for volunteers.
     Everyone has a clear idea of the role volunteers should play in our organization.                       _____
     People throughout the organization believe volunteers are making a positive contribution.               _____
     The work done by volunteers contributes directly to achieving our mission and priorities.               _____

2. Leadership is combined with effective management.
      The Board and ED encourage volunteers in all area and there is a budget for volunteerism.              _____
      One person has the primary leadership role in promoting and organizing volunteers.                     _____

3. There is a solid foundation for managing volunteers.
      We have written policies and procedures for volunteer involvement.                                     _____
      Employees are trained to work effectively with volunteers.                                             _____

4. Staff and volunteers know what is expected of them.
      We have written descriptions for all positions and update annually.                                    _____
      We have opportunities in every area at a variety of levels – from routine to professional.             _____

5. We have a diverse process and use a marketing approach to recruit volunteers.
     Our recruitment plan utilizes a variety of materials and strategies, including our website.             _____
     Everyone in the organization participates in recruitment.                                               _____
     Our needs, expectations and benefits are included in recruitment materials.                             _____

6. There is a process for interviewing, screening and placing volunteers.
      Each volunteer completes some type of application and agreement.                                       _____
      Each volunteer is interviewed to determine the proper “fit” with the position.                         _____
      We return calls and emails promptly.                                                                   _____

7. After they are accepted, volunteers are equipped to do their work.
      Orientation and training is provided for all volunteers.                                               _____
      Agency in-service training and staff meetings are open to volunteers.                                  _____
      All volunteers are assigned a supervisor and receive regular feedback.                                 _____

8. Staff and volunteers work together effectively.
      Working with volunteers is considered part of every staff position.                                    _____
      We recognize staff who work well with volunteers.                                                      _____

9. Volunteers are valued in our organization.
     We have both formal and informal volunteer recognition and we share their stories.                      _____
     Volunteers at every level feel respected and valued.                                                    _____

10. We learn, grow and change to keep improving.
     We regularly evaluate volunteer involvement in the organization.                                        _____
     People in the organization are interested in involving volunteers more effectively.                     _____



Volunteer Center of Greater Milwaukee – Based on POLF Changing the Paradigm Series and our Volunteer Management Toolkit