Summary of Volunteer Retention and Recruitment Networking Session

Retention:

-        Thank you/appreciation letters sent often

-        Mentoring after orientation (for up to 1 year)

-        Publishing their commitment to volunteering with photos/articles

-        Contributions from Medical Staff or Foundation to annual awards meal and/or ceremony

-        Cross train volunteers so they don’t burn out

-        Have volunteer journals so they can write down suggestions and comments

-        Have committee meet to follow up on suggestions and satisfaction reports from volunteers (they need to feel they are heard)

-        Have exit interview with volunteer

Perks:  (often dependent on number of hours volunteered)

-        Free or discounted meals and/or drinks

-        Preferred parking

-        Free immunizations

-        Discounts on pharmacy, gym membership, spa passes, gift shop and/or hospital bills

-        Free tickets to local events

-        Use of  Spiritual Retreat facility

-        Gift Certificates or gift cards to local businesses

Recruiting tactics:

-        Current members suggestions or ‘bring a friend’event

-        Word of mouth

-        Recent retirees lists from hospital, schools or businesses

-        Welcome Wagon for people moving into area

-        Area churches and/or service groups

-        Discharge papers from hospital can include application

-        On-line application posted on hospital web site, United Way web site or RSVP

-        Newspaper or on-line postings explaining qualifications for positions that need to be filled

-        Notices throughout hospital and lounges explaining volunteer opportunities and activities

-        Mentor students (both high school and university) in summer, for potential volunteering during school year (Many need to volunteer for National Honor Society)

-        Interview patients that have seen benefits that volunteers provide