Volunteers are among a nonprofit’s most valuable assets. These dedicated individuals are already engaged with the mission and willing to give their time. Yet many organizations overlook a key opportunity: converting these committed supporters into financial donors. According to Fidelity Charitable, 87% of volunteers say there is a strong connection between the time they give and the causes they support financially. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) also highlights that volunteers are significantly more likely to donate than non-volunteers. By strategically nurturing these relationships, nonprofits can strengthen donor pipelines while deepening engagement.
Why Volunteers Make Great Donors
Volunteers already believe in the mission and see firsthand the impact of the work. Unlike first-time donors who need to be convinced, volunteers have an emotional and personal connection to the cause. Additionally, they tend to be highly engaged, often interacting with staff, beneficiaries, and programs. This direct involvement builds trust, making them more likely to give financially when presented with the opportunity.
Strategies for Converting Volunteers into Donors
1. Recognize and Appreciate Their Contributions
Volunteers should feel valued beyond their hours of service. Send thank-you notes, highlight their work in newsletters, and feature them on social media. Personalized appreciation strengthens their commitment to the organization.
2. Educate on the Impact of Financial Gifts
Many volunteers may not realize how crucial donations are to sustaining programs. Share impact stories and explain how financial support complements volunteer efforts. Hosting an informal Q&A with leadership can help volunteers see where donations make a difference.
3. Make Giving Easy
Provide simple, accessible ways for volunteers to donate, such as adding a donation link in volunteer communications or offering a “Round-Up” option when they sign up for shifts. Consider a dedicated volunteer giving page on the website.
4. Offer Matching Gift Opportunities
Encourage volunteers to check if their employers offer matching gifts for both volunteer hours and financial contributions. Many companies match employee donations, amplifying their impact.
5. Create a Volunteer Giving Circle
A giving circle fosters community among volunteers while encouraging collective giving. A small monthly donation commitment, combined with occasional social gatherings, builds a sense of ownership and long-term support.
6. Ask at the Right Time
Timing matters. Volunteers are most receptive after a meaningful experience, such as a successful event or a milestone celebration. A well-timed ask, paired with a story about the organization's needs, increases the likelihood of conversion.
Volunteers already invest their time and passion—inviting them to contribute financially is a natural next step. With thoughtful engagement and clear opportunities, nonprofits can turn dedicated volunteers into lifelong donors, strengthening both funding and mission impact.
Cheers,
Michelle Crim, CFRE
Dynamic Development Strategies can help. We offer coaching, grant writing, and fundraising services for our nonprofit clients. We specialize in small to mid-size organizations because we understand your challenges. Please contact us for more information.
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