Wednesday Buzz: Modernize Your Volunteer Efforts

Just as tech, event, and social media trends change from year to year, so too do volunteer trends.

Engaging Volunteers shares volunteering trends you should know  (opens in a new tab) for 2018, including reaching out to retired people who may gain a lot of personal value from volunteering. “Older adults often discover they have more time in their lives to give to causes due to being out of the workforce,” writes Kayla Matthews. “And a growing number agree that volunteering makes them feel more fulfilled.”

Also, keep in mind that volunteering doesn’t have to happen in person; it can also take place online. “Volunteering online allows people to make a meaningful impact without encountering some of the common obstacles that can ultimately convince individuals to delay their intentions to get involved,” says Matthews. “It also helps them ease into volunteering and learn about its benefits.”

The post also suggests keeping an eye on how virtual reality can be used as a training tool and the ways in which recruiting efforts have gone digital.

Would You Be My Valentine?

“What I Love Most About Associations Is…” https://t.co/r55jX7TTGJ  (opens in a new tab) #assnchat  (opens in a new tab) #association  (opens in a new tab)

— MemberClicks (@MemberClicks) February 12, 2018  (opens in a new tab)

Happy Valentine’s Day! On this day of romance, let’s show a little adoration to our industry. Callie Walker of the MemberClicks blog asked a few of her colleagues why they love associations  (opens in a new tab), and their responses may remind you why you entered this field in the first place.

“What I love most about associations is the passionate individuals that work in the organization. They’re not only experts in their field, but they’re passionate about moving their industry forward and connecting members together,” says Amelia Greeley, solution advisor.

Other Links of Note

It takes a lot of effort to recruit skilled volunteers. Stanford Social Innovation Review reveals how to ensure they have the biggest impact  (opens in a new tab).

Are your internal meetings always starting 10 minutes late? Find out how to deal with latecomers and learn a bunch of other ways to make your meetings more efficient  (opens in a new tab) from the Wild Apricot blog.

Protecting valuable data is trickier than ever. The CDW Solutions Blog shares ways your group can achieve security and compliance this year  (opens in a new tab).

(Hailshadow/iStock/Getty Images Plus)