Below you will find some key resources that are great places to start.
Introductory Books
- From the Top Down: The Executive Role in Successful Volunteer Involvement --A classic in the field, written for both the executive director and the volunteer engagement leader, this book explains fundamental subjects that must be considered for successfully involving volunteers in your organization's mission, including policies, budgeting, staff/volunteer relations, risk, and the impact of volunteer contributions.
- Volunteer Management: Mobilizing All the Resources of the Community is still very pertinent today and free in the Ellis Archive. Used as a textbook in volunteer management classes.
- Best of All: The Quick Reference Guide to Effective Volunteer Involvement -- Another classic. Available from Canada.
Resources by Topic
Recommended by Our Consultants
Ellis Archive - Contains the best writings from the past, includes articles, books, reasearch papers, journals and more. Many are evergreen.
Journal
Engage Journal is written for volunteer engagement leaders around the world who want to be informed and challenged about volunteering trends and issues.
Associations
AL!VE: Association for Leaders in Volunteer Engagement
Based in the US, most AL!VE members are from the United States but they encourage international participation.
Search AL!VE website to find your local organization in the US.
International Association for Volunteer Effort (IAVE)
International membership organization with the mission to promote, celebrate, and strengthen volunteerism worldwide
Certification
Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration
Individuals seeking to earn the CVA (Certified in Volunteer Administration) credential can enroll in this unique, international, performance-based program for individuals who lead and direct volunteer engagement in all types of organizations and settings. CCVA recognizes practitioners in the field of volunteer resources management who meet specified standards as measured through an exam and a written portfolio. This is a self-study process requiring no travel or special classes. Individuals with the equivalent of at least 3 years of experience leading and directing volunteers are eligible.
Conferences and Events
AL!VE's calendar includes a wide-range of conferences and events from other organizations.
Where to List Volunteer Opportunities
Idealist is the largest online database of volunteer opportunities. Allows organizations to list their volunteer opportunities throughout the world.
Volunteer Management Software
There are a wide range of volunteer management software. The 4 options below have paid to be listed on our website.
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Volunteer management software that's comprehensive, easy to use, and backed by an amazing team to professionals ready to help you.
