How do we, as program directors and therapeutic riding instructors offer our thanks to the volunteers who make it possible for our program to run smoothly and efficiently? I believe strongly that recognizing those who give their time and energy to serve other people through their volunteer services is essential. Everyone wants to know that they are making a difference, they need to know that their work matters, and that they have a purpose within the organization or program.
How do YOU recognize volunteer within your program?
I spent some time researching this topic and came up with some interesting results. I enjoyed researching this topic because I think there are so many ways in which to recognize volunteers and some of the results I found were very creative and enjoyable to read. It sparked my creativity and I hope that it is able to spark your own as well.
A few of my favorite ideas are:
- Writing Thank You Notes. There is something special about receiving a hand written card or note letting us know that the work we are doing matters. Taking a minute to jot down some of the ways that you appreciate your volunteer and the work that they are doing can become a source of motivation and inspiration for your volunteer. They can see that you are serious enough to take time to write them a card that is personal.
- Having a Volunteer Recognition Dinner/Lunch. Have a meal for all your program volunteers in their honor. This can be a time to highlight the great things that your volunteers have done or are doing in your program.
- Take on the Job Photos. Documenting the work that your volunteers are doing is a good way to not only display the work of your program but also the people who are making it all possible. Just make sure that your program has signed photo release forms for all those who are in the photos being taken. Display these photos in your barn for all to see and framing the photos make great gifts!
- Be Organized. Some of you might read this and wonder what I am talking about. How does organization have anything to do with recognizing volunteers? I think in fact it does because when you are organized as a program it shows to the volunteers that you care enough about them that you are trying to make their job easier. Organization could include: lesson schedules posted, tack labeled for the horses that are to use them, schedule of where volunteers are to be working that day, etc. What are ways that YOU stay organized in you’re program?
- Ask for thoughts and ideas. Don’t be afraid to ask a volunteer what they think. If you have volunteers as part of your team for teaching a lesson, take time at the end of the lesson to hear their feedback. Not only are you getting valuable information from them but you are also showing them that you do care and value what they have to say.
- Introduce the Team. When teaching therapeutic riding lessons, make sure that you introduce all members of your team to the rider. While you are engaging the rider socially, you are also taking time to make sure that the rider and team realize it is not a one person gig but that in order for effective and safe lessons the whole team must be involved.
These are just a few ideas. Good websites to check out for more information are:
- http://www.idealist.org/en/vmrc/bestpractices/motivation.html
- http://www.volunteeringireland.ie/page.php?id=5
- http://4h.uwex.edu/resources/mgt/volunteer.cfm
Be creative! Let your volunteers know just how much of an impact they are having, not only in your life but in the lives around you as well.
