National Volunteer Week: Every Moment Matters!

• March 2, 2024

  Posted by: Corinne Napper

  

  In Canada, National Volunteer Week falls between April 14 - 20!

  The theme for National Volunteer Week 2024 is Every Moment Matters. It highlights the importance of every volunteer and each contribution they make when we need support more than ever. The sharing of time, skills, empathy, and creativity is vital to the inclusivity, strength, and well-being of our communities. It's in these moments, and the relationships between them, that we find greater purpose and a sense of belonging. And by sharing these moments, we co-create the neighbourhoods, culture, and society we want to live in.

  Let's recognize and celebrate every volunteer and each contribution they're making to strengthen inclusivity and well-being in our communities. Every Moment Matters!

  Did you know??? There are over 24 million volunteers across Canada! And, Manitoba boasts the second highest rate of volunteerism in the country! That's worth celebrating 😊.

  What can you do to celebrate volunteers?

  Personalized thank you notes: Take the time to write heartfelt thank you notes to volunteers, acknowledging their specific contributions and the impact they've made. Personalization adds an extra touch of sincerity and shows that their efforts are truly valued.

  Volunteer Appreciation Events: Host a special event or gathering to honor volunteers. This could range from a simple luncheon to a formal awards ceremony (like the Annual Volunteer Awards, hosted by Volunteer Manitoba), providing an opportunity to express gratitude, share stories, and celebrate achievements.

  Social Media Shoutouts: Use social media platforms to spotlight volunteers and their work. Share photos, testimonials, and stories highlighting their dedication and the difference they've made in the community, using Volunteer Canada's Campaign Kit, and don't forget to tag us @volunteermanitoba 😉

  Certificates and Awards: Recognize volunteers with certificate of appreciation that highlight their contributions or customize a poster thanking volunteers and post in your space. This tangible token of recognition serves as a lasting reminder of their impact and commitment. Or you can share some inspirational quotes about volunteerism with this free Canva.com template.

  Skill Development Opportunities: Invest in volunteers' personal and professional development by offering training workshops, skill-building sessions, or access to resources that enhance their abilities and broaden their impact.

  Public Recognition: Showcase volunteers' contributions through press releases, newsletters, or community publications. By shining a spotlight on their efforts, you not only honor their work but also inspire others to get involved, and raise awareness about your cause!

  Flexible Volunteer Opportunities: Recognize that volunteers have diverse interests, skills, and availability. Offer flexible volunteer opportunities that cater to different schedules and preferences, ensuring that everyone can contribute in a way that aligns with their passions and abilities.

  Continuous Feedback and Support: Foster open communication with volunteers, seeking their input, feedback, and suggestions for improvement. Providing ongoing support and guidance demonstrates a commitment to their success and well-being.

  Personalized Tokens of Appreciation: Consider giving small, thoughtful gifts or tokens of appreciation to volunteers, such as custom merchandise, gift cards, or symbolic items that reflect the organization's mission or values. Or, check out Volunteer Canada's online gift store, to find a variety of affordable gifts to support your volunteer recognition campaign.

  Long-term Engagement: Recognize that volunteer appreciation is not limited to a single week but should be an ongoing effort. Cultivate a culture of gratitude and recognition within your organization or community, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among volunteers.

  National Volunteer Week is a time to honor and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of volunteers. By expressing gratitude, recognizing their efforts, and fostering a culture of appreciation, we not only acknowledge the impact of volunteers but also inspire others to join in the collective effort to make the world a better place. Volunteers are the backbone of many organizations. Whether it's mentoring youth, caring for the environment, or supporting vulnerable populations, their impact knows no bounds! National Volunteer Week provides an opportunity to reflect on the significance of volunteerism in Manitoba, and all across Canada, recognizing the profound difference it makes in the lives of others.

  Looking for more resources to support your volunteer program? Check out the resource section of our website, where you'll find a variety of information to support your volunteer management needs.

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