EXAMPLE PAGE - GUIDE - BTU - Flipbook - Página 39
Retaining
Volunteers
Once a dedicated and reliable team of volunteers has been established,
what can be done to keep them motivated to return each morning?
The key to managing breakfast club volunteers is following the 4 C’s:
coordinating, communicating, connecting and celebrating. A wellorganized program in which the lines of communication are open and
everyone feels respected will result in long-term volunteers that can truly
identify with the breakfast club and its mission. Consider the following:
•
E nsure volunteers know who they can talk to if they have any questions or
concerns;
•
e flexible in letting volunteers choose roles based on their interest, experience,
B
and availability;
•
E nsure volunteers feel like part of the school community by inviting them to
participate in special school events;
•
ffer opportunities for personal growth and professional development, including,
O
safe food handling certification or Breakfast Club of Canada training;
•
They do not receive enough support from other volunteers;
•
Ensure volunteers are well supported and appreciated;
•
Encourage a friendly, supportive atmosphere. Make it fun for everyone!
The following are the most common reasons why volunteers may choose to end their commitment:
•
There are differences between the volunteer responsibilities described to them and the
reality of the breakfast club;
•
The duties assigned to them are too routine or lacking variety;
•
There is no one easily available to offer leadership or guidance in tricky situations;
•
They receive no appreciation for their efforts;
•
They do not receive enough support from other volunteers;
•
They do not feel that their effort is making a difference;
•
There are few opportunities to express creativity or demonstrate initiative;
•
There is tension or conflict among volunteers;
•
They are no longer able to make the time commitment.
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