8 Strategies For Creating A More Inclusive Volunteer Program ▬ VolunteerMatch

8 Strategies For Creating A More Inclusive Volunteer Program

@VolunteerMatch

VolunteerMatch Blog: 4.26.2018 by Lisa Joyslin

Many organizations struggle to engage volunteers who reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of the communities they serve. In response to this issue, the Minnesota Association for Volunteer Administration (MAVA) recently embarked on a research study which resulted in a set of eight strategies for creating a more inclusive volunteer program within nonprofit and government organizations. These strategies serve as a starting point for volunteer engagement leaders seeking concrete next steps for better engaging volunteers from diverse and immigrant communities.

Below is a summary of the eight strategies, and the full report is available on MAVA’s website.

Strategy #1: Shift Your Language

When working with immigrant and diverse communities, consider using words beyond “volunteer.” “Help” is one good option, but other broader terms, such as “support,” “benefit,” or “give,” are also possibilities. Please note, this doesn’t mean you should eliminate the word “volunteer” from your vocabulary. Use the word “volunteer”, but also use other words — ones that are more universally understood — to speak to a person’s sense of community.

Strategy #2: Build Relationships

No conversation about engaging diverse populations can take place without discussion of relationship-building. It is central to any successful outreach effort. Many people across cultures say they would volunteer if they were asked, but they aren’t asked. Building relationships is the first step toward making that ask.

Strategy #3: Understand The Importance Of Socio-Economic Status

When engaging communities of color it is essential to consider socio-economic status and make adjustments that accommodate volunteers from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

Strategy #4: Embrace Skills-Based Opportunities

Skills-based volunteers are people who bring a specialized skill set — often one they typically would be paid to perform — to your organization or government.  READ MORE ➤➤

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