Recognising Volunteers within your Organisation
Volunteers stay engaged when they feel seen, valued, and connected to purpose, even when they are not actively volunteering. Thoughtful and consistent connection supports volunteer wellbeing, retention, and long-term participation.
This approach is also reflected in national best practice, the National Strategy for Volunteering emphasises communication, inclusion, flexibility, and meaningful engagement.
There are many ways that managers of volunteers, staff and other volunteers within the organisation can show that they appreciate and value the efforts of all the members of the volunteer team. The National Standards in part focuses on organisational practices which serve to ensure your volunteers’ efforts are recognised appropriately.
National Volunteer Week is an opportunity for organisations to recognise the contribution of volunteers.
Recognising volunteers doesn’t have to involve spending a lot of money. There are many ways you can show them you appreciate them without having to spend a cent! Start by saying thank you on International Volunteer Day and keep showing your gratitude all year round.
Some ideas include:
- Provide a warm welcome for each new volunteer
- Ask volunteers for their opinions when developing new policies and strategies
- Involve volunteers in morning teas and coffee breaks
Acknowledging Outstanding Volunteers Across Australia
Volunteering Australia, together with the State and Territory Volunteering Peak Bodies, is committed to celebrating the extraordinary contribution volunteers make to communities across the country.
Through both State and National Volunteer Awards, we recognise individuals and organisations whose dedication, leadership, and service embody the spirit of volunteering.
State and Territory Peak Bodies lead award programmes that highlight the achievements of volunteers within their States or territories. These awards showcase the diversity of volunteering and acknowledge outstanding contributions across sectors.
At the national level, Volunteering Australia brings these celebrations together through the National Volunteer Awards, shining a spotlight on exceptional volunteers and volunteer‑involving organisations from every part of Australia.
Together, these awards ensure that volunteers receive the recognition they deserve and help to elevate the profile and value of volunteering nationwide.
