Purpose of a Volunteer Coordinator

Volunteer coordinators recruit, manage and train volunteers.

Volunteer coordinators are employed by hospitals, schools, museums and a number of non-profit agencies. These individuals are responsible for the overall management of volunteer programs including recruiting, managing and training a volunteer staff.

Recruiting Volunteers

Volunteers are vital to the success of most community and social programs. Consequently, one the largest roles played by volunteer coordinators is that of recruiter. Coordinators use a variety of recruiting techniques such as networking, advertising and volunteer fairs to recruit volunteers.

Screening Volunteers

As a part of the recruiting process, coordinators also screen volunteers. This process might include interviewing candidates, conducting background checks and checking references.

Training Volunteers

Volunteer coordinators are responsible for coordinating volunteer orientations and ensuring adequate training for volunteer staff.

Managing Volunteers

Volunteer coordinators ensure appropriate placement of volunteer staff and oversee their work and performance.

Acts as a Liaison

An agency's volunteer staff may work at different sites and locations. Although they are managed by the volunteer coordinator, they may report their daily activities to various site directors. Consequently, the volunteer coordinator will often act as a liaison between the volunteer and the agency's management team and corporate office.

References

• Energize Inc.