volunteer comms are donor comms

Do you think of your volunteer comms as donor comms?

If not, you’re missing out.

Personal share:

I’m a longtime volunteer and donor at Trinity Center in downtown Austin, TX. A place and community dear to my heart.

Years ago when I got involved, which of these do you think was my entry point: my first volunteer experience or my first gift?

It was volunteering that brought me into a relationship with this nonprofit. And it’s how many future donors will connect with you, too.

Of course not every organization works with volunteers. But if you do, be sure they’re hearing from you regularly.

On average, volunteers give at least TWICE as much as non-volunteers!

Some studies show that number as high as 10x.

And data from Fidelity Charitable suggests that volunteers are twice as likely to make gifts over $1,000 compared to non-volunteers.

Why? Because the gift of time and service builds trust and community more deeply and more quickly than your average donor experience.

But only if you show volunteers your love and appreciation.

Practically, it can look like this:

• Volunteers receive a personalized version of your emails and direct mail pieces.

• Volunteers receive some of your handwritten notes and stewardship calls.

• Volunteers receive impact stories about the difference they are making.

• Volunteers get representation in your impact reports, beyond the numbers.

• Volunteers get celebrated and appreciated in your social media with photos and vidoes.

• Volunteers get invited to a special event or a 1:1 coffee date, just for them.

• Volunteers see a passive ask in some comms, with “other ways to get involved.”

• Volunteers get a special matching-gift offer just for them.

What else would you add to this list?

I’d love to hear about your favorite volunteer-to-donor experience.