I talk to non profits everyday. The two most common complaints I hear from them is that too many board members are not actively involved with fundraisng and they need more volunteers.
Since it is National Volunteer week, I decided to do some quick research. Don’t you just love Google?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics report, issued 1/26/10 indicates that there were 63.4 million volunteers or 26.8% of the population between 9/08 and 9/09.
Here are some must know characteristics of volunteers that caught my eye.
1. The people who were more likely to volunteer have kids under 18 and work fulltime. This surprised me. With the current economy the way it is, I assumed the unemployed would be contributing more time in communities. This goes back to the old adage. If you want something done ask someone who’s busy.
2. Men volunteer more hours per year than women, although less men volunteer than women. Volunteer placement by gender seems odd, but consideration as to the number of hours required for specific positions might minimize volunteer burnout and maximize volunteer happiness.
3. Of people who volunteered, 44% did so because they were asked. This business 101. “You have to ask for the sale” .
Given this data, would it make sense to qualify board members and volunteers based on the above findings?
This target group is more willing to join and put in the time to get the job done. Best of all; the only thing you have to do is ask!
Recruiting volunteers and board members that have kids, jobs and are gender specific may yield better results.
Here’s my question. What ways can the target audience described be mined? Would love to hear your ideas.
Lucinda
PS. If you are one of the 56% of the people who don’t need to be asked to volunteer and want to do so, the Volunteers of America can help you locate a non profit in your area needing help.
