People volunteer to help at events for countless reasons, but underneath it all, most volunteers are motivated by the quality of their performance. When volunteers know their time and energy are appreciated and that they are valued, they commit themselves to the event. Therefore, volunteer recognition is one of the most powerful tools for retaining an event’s invaluable volunteers.
Three Keys to Successfully Recognizing Volunteers
Do it well.
Do it often.
Make it meaningful.
Create an Attitude of Grattitude
- Be aware of the extra effort put forth by an individual.
- Take the time to mention a person’s service or thank them for a job well done.
- Develop a climate wherein work is sincerely noticed and noted at all levels.
When and how the recipient is recognized will make the expression of gratitude memorable. Recognitions might be made on special Girl Scout holidays, at service unit meetings, at a special recognition event, or immediately following the event.
Informal Recognition Ideas
- Framed photograph of the Girl Scouts who participated in the event
- Statement of thanks published in a Girl Scout publication, social media page, or community paper
- Flowers or virtual flowers
- Cards made by the Girl Scouts
- Electronic greeting cards
- A certificate designed for the event
- Fun awards such as breath mints (“you take my breath away”), note cards (“for a noteworthy achievement”), or batteries (“you’ve added energy to our group”)
The possibilities are endless! Check out Pinterest, Google, and others for more ideas.