UNA - From Bystanders to Belonging: Building Inclusive Volunteer Ecosystems that Stick
From Bystanders to Belonging: Building Inclusive Volunteer Ecosystems that Stick is a practical, retention-focused training for nonprofit leaders who want volunteers to keep showing up—not just once, but again and again. Participants will assess their current inclusion practices, strengthen each stage of the volunteer journey (recruitment, screening/placement, onboarding, and recognition), and leave with a simple action plan they can implement immediately.
What You Will Learn
Why volunteers stay: how belonging, recognition, and growth directly drive volunteer retention
How to spot gaps fast: a quick Q–Inclusion Assessment to identify the lowest-scoring area that’s most likely impacting retention.
A repeatable onboarding approach: the EDGE Framework (Equity, Discovery, Guided Welcome, Engagement Spark) to create a welcoming first experience and a “quick win” that anchors commitment.
Retention-friendly incentives: simple, realistic tactics across Recognition, Growth, and Belonging that increase return rates without burning out staff.
A 30-day retention action plan: “Start / Stop / Experiment” steps participants customize for their organization.
Who Should Attend?
CEO/Executive Directors, Chief Operating Officers, board members, and volunteer management staff who want to build sustainable, inclusive volunteer management systems.
Cost:
Members Per Person: $45
Not-Yet-Members: $90
