Recruiting and retaining volunteers is a critical challenge faced by many tuckshops.
Despite the altruistic nature of volunteering, many tuckshops and schools struggle to attract and keep dedicated volunteers.
Let’s look at some of the reasons behind this issue and explore potential solutions.
Understanding the problem
Lack of awareness: Many potential volunteers simply aren’t aware of the opportunities available. Many tuckshops often rely on methods of communication which might not reach your whole audience.
Time constraints: In today’s fast-paced world, many parents struggle to find time to volunteer. Between work, family responsibilities, and personal commitments, free time is a luxury for many.
Perceived lack of impact: Potential volunteers want to feel that their efforts will make a difference. If the impact of their contribution isn’t clear or communicated effectively, they may be less motivated to get involved.
Poor volunteer management: Once volunteers are recruited, retaining them can be a challenge if the management and organisation are lacking. Poor communication, lack of appreciation, and inadequate support can lead to volunteer dissatisfaction and dropout.
Mismatch of skills and opportunities: Sometimes, volunteers are not matched with tasks that suit their skills or interest, leading to frustration and disengagement.
Finding solutions
Enhance visibility and outreach:
- Utilise social media e.g. school, parent body, tuckshop Facebook page
- School newsletter and notice boards
- Community notice boards
- Community groups such as QCWA, Lions Club etc.
- Hold meet and greet sessions at the tuckshop and offer samples of the delicious food you prepare
- Be present and speak at school open days and orientation sessions
- Encourage grandparents to volunteer
- Word of mouth
Flexible volunteering options:
- Offer flexible volunteering schedules to accommodate parents’ busy lives.
- Micro-volunteering opportunities, which require a small time commitment, can be particularly appealing.
Clear communication of impact:
- Regularly update your volunteers on how their efforts are making a difference.
- Share success stories, progress reports, and personal thank-you notes to highlight their impact.
- Engaging storytelling and showcasing the positive impact of volunteering can attract more parents.
Effective volunteer management:
- Invest in proper volunteer management training for your team.
- Ensure that volunteers feel welcomed, supported, and appreciated.
- Regular chick-ins, feedback opportunities, and recognition events can go a long way in retaining volunteers.
Skill-based volunteering:
- Align volunteer opportunities with the skills and interest of your volunteers. This not only makes the experience more fulfilling for them but also ensures that your tuckshop benefits from their expertise.
Create a positive experience:
- Make volunteering a rewarding and enjoyable experience. This could be through social events, networking opportunities, cooking sessions and recipe swaps.
Don’t forget the power of a heartfelt ‘thank you’, after every volunteer shift.
To wrap things up
While attracting and retaining volunteers can be challenging, understanding the underlying issues, and implementing strategic solutions can make a significant difference.
By enhancing visibility, offering flexibility, communicating impact, managing effectively, and aligning skills, tuckshops can build a dedicated and motivated volunteer base.
Remember, volunteers are the heart of many schools and tuckshops, and investing in them is investing in your tuckshop’s success.
How QAST can help
QAST offers a self-paced, online Volunteer Management Course that will help you develop a strategic approach for engaging volunteers in your school community.
Visit our website to access resources to help you with your volunteer recruitment, training and retention.
