Building a Strong Volunteer Pipeline: Recruitment and Retention Strategies

Volunteers play an essential role in helping nonprofits achieve their missions. They extend the reach of staff, bring valuable skills, and create meaningful connections with the community. But in today’s environment, many nonprofits are finding it harder to both recruit and retain dedicated volunteers. With shifting demographics, competing demands on people’s time, and new expectations around flexibility, building a strong volunteer pipeline requires a strategic approach. 

Rethink Recruitment Channels 

The way people seek opportunities to give back has changed. While traditional methods like word-of-mouth and community events remain effective, nonprofits should also leverage digital tools. Posting opportunities on social media, using online volunteer-matching platforms, and highlighting stories of current volunteers on your website can attract a broader pool of candidates. 

Consider tailoring outreach by age group: younger volunteers may respond best to social media campaigns, while retirees may prefer direct connections through community centers, faith-based organizations, or local associations. 

Offer Meaningful Roles 

Volunteers want to feel that their time makes a difference. Clearly define roles, outline responsibilities, and explain how their work supports your mission. Opportunities that align with individual skills—such as marketing, IT, or fundraising—can be especially rewarding and beneficial to the organization. 

In addition, providing flexible options, like remote volunteering or short-term projects, can help attract those who cannot commit to long-term schedules. 

Provide Training and Support 

Investing in orientation and training ensures volunteers are equipped to succeed. Ongoing support—through mentorship, check-ins, or refresher sessions—builds confidence and helps retain volunteers over time. A structured onboarding process communicates professionalism and shows that your organization values their contributions. 

Recognize and Appreciate Contributions 

Retention often hinges on appreciation. Regularly acknowledge the work of your volunteers through thank-you notes, recognition events, or features in newsletters and social media. Personal touches—like celebrating anniversaries of service or highlighting milestones—go a long way toward building loyalty and strengthening relationships. 

Create Pathways for Growth 

A strong pipeline isn’t just about recruitment—it’s also about giving volunteers a reason to stay and deepen their involvement. Offer opportunities for leadership roles, committee participation, or specialized projects that allow them to grow alongside your organization. This sense of progression encourages long-term commitment. 

Looking Ahead 

In 2025, successful nonprofits will continue to adapt to the changing needs and expectations of volunteers. By expanding recruitment strategies, offering meaningful opportunities, investing in training, and cultivating a culture of appreciation, organizations can build a sustainable volunteer pipeline that strengthens their mission for years to come. 

At Brady Martz, we understand the unique challenges nonprofits face in managing people and resources. From strategic planning to internal control evaluations, our professionals provide guidance to help organizations operate more efficiently so they can focus on what matters most—their mission and their volunteers.