creating a volunteer community

VECTor Conference 2016 | Discussion Circle

Creating a Volunteer CommunityNorah O’Donnell

Community Volunteer Coordinator at Young People’s Theatre

@thenorahbirdnodonnell@youngpeoplestheatre.ca

Our Learning Objectives

WHAT?Share strategies on how to transform our individual volunteer base into a vibrant social community!

HOW? Discuss the 6 Building Blocks to Creating a Community Apply concepts to both organization (yourself) and volunteers

Hello!

How Will We Define Community?

• What are some communities that you belong to?

• Often used interchangeability with CULTURE

• Let’s go beyond the “loose collection of people who happen to have something in common”

ACTIVITY | Fired Up vs. Burnt Out

PART 1: Think of a time when you felt fired up at work. Write down the list of elements in the culture that made you feel that way.

PART 2: Now consider a time when you were burning out. Write down the elements in the culture that made you feel that way.

Let’s understand the dynamics of how community interactions work.

6 Building Blocks to Creating a Community

This hybrid model was based on workplace culture theories, the 6 universal human needs to thrive, and volunteer best practices.

What motivates volunteers. Passion is at the heart of getting involved!

When volunteers are motivated by the mission, united by the values, and proud of the reputation.

When volunteers are connected to the vision of the organization.

When volunteers are respected within the organization, engaged in roles and able to share their ideas and opinions honestly.

When everyone in the organization understands the needs of volunteers, appreciates their positive unique contributions, and helps them to achieve their potential.

Everyone needs encouragement and recognition. Compliment volunteers (both formally and informally) on a job well done!

How Is Your Organization Doing?

Let’s Discuss! In your organization, what is your STONGEST

building block?

What building block NEEDS IMPROVEMENT and EXTRA ATTENTION?

Additional Resources

WEB: Culture Lab X. culturelabx.com/culture-code/

BOOK: Connection Culture. Michale Lee Stallard. (2015).