Volunteer Site Coordinator Resources

Create a physical or virtual “Wall of Fame” where volunteers’ names and achievements are displayed, honoring their contributions and inspiring others to join.

Offer formal certificates or plaques that recognize hours of service, special achievements, or milestones. These can be presented at a ceremony or mailed to volunteers to make them feel valued.

Send regular shout-outs in newsletters, morning/afternoon announcements, emails, or meetings to acknowledge efforts in real time. A simple “thank you” or public acknowledgment keeps morale high and ensures volunteers feel appreciated year-round.

Feature volunteers in newsletters, social media, or websites, highlighting their contributions and stories. This public acknowledgment boosts morale and shows the community the impact of their work.  Make sure you include #PGCPSvolunteers so that it can be spotlighted on our webpage.

Recognize long-term volunteers with special awards for hitting significant milestones (e.g., 100 hours, 1 year of service). Offer tiered rewards, increasing in prestige as volunteers dedicate more time.

Provide small tokens of appreciation, like branded merchandise (t-shirts, mugs, or pins), personalized thank-you cards, or gift cards. These ongoing gestures keep volunteers feeling appreciated between major events.

Host "Thank You" luncheons, coffee meet-ups, or virtual appreciation events throughout the year. These informal gatherings foster community among volunteers and allow leadership to express appreciation in a personal setting.

Encourage volunteers to nominate one another for recognition. This builds camaraderie and allows volunteers to appreciate their peers’ efforts, increasing group cohesion.

Personalize recognition by identifying each volunteer’s unique contributions. Plan annual events such as an awards ceremony where volunteers receive personalized awards (e.g., "Above and Beyond" or "Leadership Award") based on their specific efforts.

Offer skill-building workshops, networking opportunities, or leadership roles as part of volunteer recognition. Showing volunteers that their time is not only appreciated but also contributes to their personal growth enhances retention.