Summer Volunteer Engagement: Turning Survey Insights Into Action

Recent feedback from our nonprofit partners shows encouraging momentum: volunteer engagement is trending upward. Organizations reported stable or increasing volunteer involvement, especially among group, one-time, and episodic volunteers. At the same time, many nonprofits continue to face challenges related to staff capacity, recruitment, and volunteer coordination. These findings offer practical guidance for organizations looking to make the most of summer volunteer energy. 

What the Survey Revealed

• Volunteer engagement is increasing 

• Many organizations reported growth in volunteer involvement, particularly among group, one-time, and episodic volunteers.  

• Capacity remains the biggest challenge 

• Limited staff capacity to manage volunteers, recruitment challenges, and difficulty accommodating large groups were the most common concerns.  

• Smaller groups are often the best fit 

• Most organizations indicated they can effectively engage groups of 10–25 volunteers or fewer.  

Key Takeaways from Member Survey 2026.pdf

Summer Volunteer Recruitment and Retention Tips for Nonprofits

Offer Flexible Opportunities That Meet Organizational Needs

Summer schedules can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key. Consider a range of opportunities—like single-day projects, weekend events, family-friendly options, or outdoor activities—to support priority work while engaging volunteers effectively. 

Design Meaningful Engagements for Available Resources

Many organizations have limited capacity to support large volunteer groups. Designing projects for teams of 10–25 can improve supervision, strengthen outcomes, and create more meaningful volunteer experiences while better meeting program needs. 

Invest in Volunteer Retention

While attracting new volunteers is important, retention reduces recruitment demands and strengthens long-term engagement. Recognition, communication about impact, leadership opportunities, and personal outreach help deepen connection to the mission. 

Align Volunteer Interests with Organizational Priorities

One challenge highlighted in the survey was balancing volunteer interests with organizational needs. Clear role descriptions, thoughtful onboarding, and a variety of opportunities can help ensure volunteers are placed where they can make the greatest impact while also having a rewarding experience. 

Leverage Skilled Volunteers to Build Capacity

Many organizations identified opportunities to better utilize skilled and pro bono volunteers. Professionals with expertise in marketing, technology, strategic planning, data analysis, finance, and other fields can help strengthen infrastructure, support priorities, and build long-term organizational capacity. 

Plan for Sustainable Volunteer Engagement

Successful volunteer programs require systems and infrastructure that support both volunteers and staff. Streamlined onboarding processes, standardized training materials, volunteer leadership roles, and effective project planning can help organizations maximize volunteer impact while managing staff workload during busy summer months. 

Looking Ahead

Survey results show a clear positive trend—people still want to show up for their communities. This summer’s opportunity isn’t just about recruiting more volunteers, but creating flexible, meaningful, and well-supported experiences that connect their interests with real organizational needs. With a focus on capacity, retention, and thoughtful engagement, nonprofits can turn seasonal energy into lasting impact.