February 26, 2014
If you're nonprofit is having a hard time finding volunteers, it's not because they aren't out there. Likely due in part to the high unemployment rate over the past five years, hiring managers are putting considerable stock in the volunteer service that they see on a candidate's resume. People realize that volunteering when they are out of work shows they still have initiative and a desire to gain new skills. Companies have realized this as well.
According to Forbes, LinkedIn's Volunteer Marketplace had 339 openings for skilled volunteers shortly following its rollout in January, however, more than 600,000 members state on their profiles that they would be interested in more volunteer work if the right opportunity arose. That level of discrepancy between open positions and candidates might be expected in the job market, but not the volunteer one.
While hardly a barometer for the entire nonprofit industry, the LinkedIn Volunteer Marketplace does suggest a disconnect between those looking to volunteer and the opportunities that nonprofits are offering.
Make volunteering more appealing
When intelligent and skilled people are looking to do more volunteer work, organizations should try and place them in positions that will be more engaging. While many volunteer opportunities are somewhat unglamorous or redundant, give those who give their time a sense of importance about what they are doing. Make sure they understand how their small actions have a large impact on others.
In addition, throw in some marketable skills such as providing committed volunteers the opportunity to fill a leadership position or contribute ideas to the organization. This engagement will not only foster future involvement with the nonprofit, but gives the individual something positive to put on their resume.
Content presented by First Nonprofit Companies, the leading provider of state unemployment insurance solutions for 501(c)(3) nonprofit employers.
Ready to chat? Get in touch today to request a no-obligation savings evaluation.
First Nonprofit has saved us so much money over the state’s program. We had one little glitch with the state recently and we contacted FNP immediately. FNP staff called us back immediately and moved to remedy the problem.
First Nonprofit has been a great partner. They have helped us saved hundreds of thousands of dollars! They have awesome resources for our nonprofit organization. Thanks for the partnership.
Life is certainly busy these days but having business partners like First Nonprofit has made some of the process hassle free. We have worked with this team for years. When we changed payroll systems, they outlined every step. I think this team is terrific and I know they get the job done! Thank you, Cruz, to all the team at FNP.
FNP has helped our agency to save thousands of dollars every year on our unemployment coverage. The service is phenomenal, and we are thankful to their team as our partner. My experience working with Marshall on the advocacy around UE for nonprofits was also a highlight as someone who teaches advocacy and lobbying for nonprofits. Really, your whole team is top shelf, so thank YOU!
Chicago Children’s Theatre has greatly benefited from our partnership with First Nonprofit, and I have always enjoyed working with the staff on our filings and any complicated questions. I would not hesitate to recommend First Nonprofit to fellow nonprofits. We’re very happy customers.
FNP is a great resource for Daniel Kids. To have a TPA that we can count on to take point on not only managing our unemployment claims, but to support and guide any protest hearing, is invaluable. All the professional support staff we have worked with have been excellent, very knowledgeable and responsive. We are grateful for the help and support, thank you.
When I first began in my position at my organization, I hadn’t had experience working with a company like FNP. The staff was so patient and helpful in helping to explain the benefits of First Nonprofit. Anytime I reach out with a question I receive a quick, clear, and thorough response. I’m so thankful that we decided to partner with FNP. Their excellence in customer service, coupled with their variety of packages frees us up to truly serve our staff and community with a peace of mind knowing that our organization is protected against unanticipated unemployment insurance expenses.
First Nonprofit gets an A+ in my book. You are so easy to work with & very knowledgeable! Whether it is my quarterly correspondence with Kim or my random interactions with Dawn about a bond … I am so pleased that I get to work with such a helpful company. Thank you!