volunteer goals

November 23, 2023

Episode #85: BIG Volunteer Goals for 2024 – Four Examples

In this Volunteer Nation host, Tobi Johnson, dives deep into the art of goal-setting. She shares practical tips and real-life examples to inspire and guide you in establishing meaningful and impactful volunteer goals for your charitable cause, membership, or movement.

The episode is a must-listen, even if you didn’t attend our recent VisionWeek strategic planning bootcamp event. Remember, it’s never too late to set meaningful goals for the year ahead. Regardless of whether you participated in VisionWeek or not, the insights shared in this podcast episode can provide valuable guidance and inspiration as you chart a course for volunteer success in 2024.

Volunteer Goals – BIG Goals and Why They Matter

Setting strong and impactful goals is essential for any organization’s success. It is not enough for goals to be merely achievable; they must also be big, brave, insightful, and galvanizing. The power of a goal lies in its ability to inspire others to take action or make an effort. The  attributes of BIG goals – being Brave, Insightful, and Galvanizing – help ignite passion, rally support, and drive action towards success. She also offers specific examples of four BIG volunteer goals that might be included in your next strategic plan.

Being brave and galvanizing in our pursuit of improving the volunteer experience will not only benefit our organization but also provide immense value to our volunteers. Through data analysis, honest assessments, and the implementation of effective strategies, we can create a volunteering environment that exceeds expectations. Let’s forge ahead and make a difference in the lives of both our volunteers and the community we serve.

Volunteer Goals – Four Examples

During the episode, Tobi presents four examples of big volunteer goals for different focus areas, including 1) boosting volunteer capacity, 2) improving the volunteer experience, 3) integrating new technology, and 4) upgrading recognition and appreciation strategies. Each example is accompanied by detailed explanations, allowing you to understand the thought process behind setting these goals.

To make it even easier for you, check out the transcript of this podcast episode (see below) to review these examples in written format and refer back to them as you work on your own goals for 2024.

Volunteer Goals – Show Highlights

01:04.6  Tobi introduces episode topic of how to establish BIG volunteer goals
06:20.5  Tobi shares some key takeaways and insights from the VisionWeek bootcamp
09:43.4  Defining “BIG” goals – B is for brave
10:13.4   I is insightful
10:59.0  G is galvanizing
13:45.3  Goal Example #1 – Boost volunteer capacity
15:46.5  Goal Example #2 – improve the volunteer experience
18:32.3  Goal Example #3 – integrating new technology to free up time
21:41.4  Goal Example #4 – Upgrade recognition and appreciation strategy

Volunteer Goals – Quotes from the Episode

“Goal setting and planning is so essential for what we do as leaders of volunteers and volunteer-involving organizations. But it’s not something that we get a lot of training on. It’s not something we’re necessarily encouraged to do, and we’re definitely often not even supported or provided the right information, AKA, what are the larger organizational goals we need to know about?”

“If folks are at a loss as to what types of impact volunteers are making, then there is probably a lack of a strategic plan in place for volunteer involvement.”

“If you feel like everything is on your plate as a volunteer coordinator, and you are unable to delegate out to others, then there is probably a lack of planning in place.”

“During the strategic planning process, it is crucial to analyze your current situation and set goals accordingly. As you communicate these goals to others, observe their reactions closely. When people’s eyes light up and their body language changes, you know that you have articulated an inspirational goal.”

“Your strategic plan and volunteer goals are not only blueprints for success but also powerful tools for garnering support. Whether it is your coworkers, leadership, or volunteers, your goals should serve as a rallying cry that motivates others to join your cause.”

“Volunteer Pro premium membership helps you build or renovate an effective what’s working now volunteer program with less stress, and more joy so that you can ditch the overwhelm and confidently carry your vision forward.”

Helpful Links

Want More? Check out Our Time + Talent Podcast!

Whether you’re looking for solutions, inspiration, or just want to hear what others are doing to successfully engage volunteers, Time + Talent is the podcast for leaders of volunteers.

Co-hosts Tobi Johnson, MA, CVA and Jennifer Bennett, CVA bring you uplifting and insightful conversations with thought leaders and volunteer management practitioners who are redefining their roles, and the roles of volunteers.

MORE INFO >>

About the Show

Nonprofit leadership author, trainer, consultant, and volunteer management expert Tobi Johnson shares weekly tips to help charities build, grow, and scale exceptional volunteer teams. Discover how your nonprofit can effectively coordinate volunteers who are reliable, equipped, and ready to help you bring about BIG change for the better.

If you’re ready to ditch the stress and harness the power of people to fuel your good work, you’re in exactly the right place!

Contact Us

Have questions or suggestions for the show? Email us at wecare@volpro.net.

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