“Orientation? Again? No, please.”
Many volunteers tend to view orientations as repetitive tasks that lack excitement or engagement levels in their volunteer experiences; however, they play a crucial role in equipping volunteers with the essential tools and knowledge needed for a successful journey ahead with the organizations they are supporting. So, why are orientations so vital for both volunteers and the organizations they support?
Setting Clear Guidelines
Having expectations is essential – For a positive volunteer experience, organizations need to conduct orientations to communicate their purpose and objectives effectively. Volunteers who align with the organization’s values can effectively advocate for its mission and enhance teamwork. When volunteers have a good understanding of their responsibilities, they can see how their contributions impact the overall mission. This understanding fosters a sense of connection and engagement in their work. When clear expectations are set, misunderstandings are avoided in the long run; benefiting volunteers, students, and the team working with them.
Building Confidence
Starting a new volunteer role, especially one involving students, can feel overwhelming. That is why orientation is so important. It helps ease this transition by introducing the volunteers to the activities, processes, and the people they will be working with. When volunteers feel comfortable and confident in their new roles, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their tasks.
Fostering a Sense of Community
Orientation is an opportunity to introduce volunteers to each other and the team within the organization. Relational and social capital – or the network of relationships among volunteers and between volunteers and the organization – are important for fostering group solidarity and increasing engagement. The stronger the relationships between volunteers and the organization, the more likely they will stay involved.
Addressing Questions and Concerns
Orientation allows volunteers to ask questions and express concerns before getting started. Addressing volunteers’ questions and concerns at the beginning of their engagement will help prevent misunderstandings, conflicts, and a sense of abandonment. Open communication during orientation will foster trust and help volunteers enjoy their experience even more.
Volunteer orientation is more than just an introductory session; it is a critical component of a successful volunteer program. Orientation sets the foundation for a positive and productive volunteer experience and can greatly enhance volunteer retention by making volunteers feel prepared, valued, and connected to the organization. When volunteers understand their roles and see how their efforts contribute to the organization’s mission, they are more likely to stay engaged and committed. This positive start boosts their satisfaction and encourages long-term involvement. A thoughtful orientation reinforces the motivation that initially inspired them to volunteer. This affirms their decision to join and demonstrates that their contributions are meaningful. It also reassures them that they have chosen the right organization, helping to maintain their enthusiasm and commitment over time.
WITS Volunteer Orientation
At WITS, we host over 20 in-person orientations each year at our corporate partners’ offices, along with several virtual sessions. These orientations are designed to thoroughly prepare our volunteers for their roles by providing valuable information about the schools they will be working with, the students they will support, and the best ways to build effective relationships. We also equip volunteers with the resources they need to succeed and fully enjoy their experience.
Get Involved
If you are interested in getting involved as a volunteer, please reach out to Daphne Robinson, our Community Manager, at daphner@witschicago.org or click here. Current volunteers who wish to attend an orientation should contact their program coordinator or corporate coordinator to find out the schedule. We look forward to welcoming new volunteers and offering exciting new opportunities for our returning ones!
Sources
Bloomerang. (2023, February 14). How to host an effective, engaging volunteer orientation. Bloomerang. https://bloomerang.co/blog/how-to-host-an-effective-engaging-volunteer-orientation/
Einolf, C. (2018). Evidence-based volunteer management: A review of the literature. Voluntary Sector Review, 9(1), 61-83. https://doi.org/10.1332/204080518X15174164926576
Strand, B. (n.d.). Nurturing passion: A guide to providing volunteer orientation. PointApp. Retrieved September 4, 2024, from https://pointapp.org/blog/nurturing-passion-a-guide-to-providing-volunteer-orientation/
