The Volunteer Dilemma: How to Revive Engagement in the Post-Pandemic Era

A recent statistic caught our eye at Uncover KC: the formal volunteering rate in the U.S. dropped from 30% in 2019 to 23% in 2021 — the largest change since AmeriCorps and the U.S. census began tracking this data in 2002. While the data reflects the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, it raises an important question: Is the nonprofit sector still experiencing a decline in volunteerism in 2024? 

While engagement has rebounded over the 2.5 years, many nonprofits haven’t yet returning to their pre-pandemic volunteer levels. There are many reasons for this, but one trend, in particular, stands out — job design. Increasingly, it feels like organizations are asking too much of general volunteers. This incldes lengthy shifts (5+ hours), schedules that span meal time without offering food or adequate breaks, reduced paid staff support, and extended commitment requests (thing months, not days). These factors are becoming an unrealistic norm. 

Yes, there are die-hard volunteers and leadership positions willing to go above and beyond with their service. And yes, there are valid reasons behind some of these requests. But in general, when volunteering starts to feel more like a paid job, the passion to serve diminishes. 

Here are a few adjustments that have worked for various nonprofits: 

1. Shift Length: For recurring needs, keep shifts between 2 to 3.5 hours. 
2. Incentives: If shifts must be longer, offer meals or incentives like free tickets or merchandise. 
3. Scheduling: Avoid meals times for shifts, or end shifts early enough for a late lunch or early dinner. 
4. Episodic Needs: Provide water and snacks for shifts lasting more than 4.5 hours. 
5. Staff Support: Ensure your paid staff has a plan for no-shows, especially for ongoing opportunities. Preparation and communication are key. 

Ultimately, if we can re-adjust our expectations, making volunteer roles more realistic and flexible, we stand a better chance of regaining the volunteer numbers we once knew. If not, the only number that will change is the year on these reports.