RE: Volunteer Co-ordination : Watch out for Cracks and Conflicts
That was helpful. Thank you, @buggedout. Upvoted!
I was a manager in a private company. Then, I decided to change my life direction and started spending some of my time in managing volunteering groups. At first, it was very confusing to me. I knew that the model I am used to is not going to work. Unfortunately, I could not find good literature on the subject. That's why I appreciate your post. A lot and I would really appreciate it if you would continue writing about this subject!
The most challenging problems I have are :
1- Motivation (without money!).
2- Keeping the members of the group after some time. Unfortunately, many volunteers start with enthusiasm. But after some time, they get bored or tired and leave. This is usually very costly to the project.
3- Co-ordinating between the team members. I face those conflicts and cracks you talked about all the time. I like the proposed solutions, but I have to say that it is much easier said than done.
I'm very glad to hear that it helped you. I'm not sure if I've got enough material for another post on volunteering but I do regularly rattle the old brain and you never know what's going to fall out.
From my experience morale is the most important thing and you need to make sure people are having fun and feel like they are part of something bigger than themselves. One group I was involved in would have a special event for volunteers where they could bond and enjoy time with each other before the BIG event started. Another would organise a "social club" type thing, or have family days, even late night drinking sessions. They would say "The team that plays together stays together" and it worked. Also, there would often be recognition for outstanding contributions. Medals, ceremonies and stuff like that. It doesn't cost a lot but it's the public show of appreciation and recognition that really can be huge for volunteers. I have seen tears of joy at events like these.
As you say, it's all easier said than done. But it can be done and if you have a strong team that understands the challenges they will help you to douse those conflicts and paper over those cracks.
Good luck :)