This page is devoted to the management of volunteer programs at the local level, including information for cities, counties, boards, commissions, and districts.

~ January 2007 ~ Topics

Case Foundation Report on Civic Engagement
Volunteer Orientation Topics

Case Foundation Report on Civic Engagement

Getting citizens more involved in the civic life and health of their communities must begin with citizens themselves, according to "Citizens at the Center: A New Approach to Civic Engagement," written by Dr. Cynthia Gibson and commissioned by the Case Foundation. This interesting report can be downloaded from:
http://www.casefoundation.org/spotlight/civic_engagement/summary.

Preparing volunteers for success is an important role for managers of volunteer resources. An important first step is the orientation. Here is a list – not exhaustive, of course – of topics to cover at a volunteer orientation.

Description, history and culture of the agency
Description of programs and clients
How the agency relates to the community and to other organizations
Description of the volunteer program
Sketch of organizational chart and introduction of key staff
Timeline of major organizational events throughout the year
Introduction of volunteer manual on policies and procedures
Tour of facility: office layout, phones, restrooms, parking, meals, etc.
Outline of volunteer benefits
Notification of volunteer training schedule
Introduction of supervisory system and personnel
Coverage of record-keeping requirements
Description of procedures to follow in case of emergency
Description of performance appraisal and review system
System for changing schedule or notifying of absence
Opportunities for growth and job development
Plea to recruit more volunteers

The National Association of Volunteer Programs in Local Government (NAVPLG) is an association of administrators, coordinators and directors of volunteer programs in local government. Its purpose is to strengthen volunteer programs in local government through leadership, advocacy, networking and information exchange. NAVPLG is an affiliate of the National Association of Counties and is seeking affiliate status with the National League of Cities. Cost is $20 for individuals and $75 for group local government membership. An affiliate membership is $25 and is intended for those who are not local government members but may have an interest in the group. There is a quarterly newsletter, national network, and access to NACo's Volunteerism Project. For more information contact Robin Popik, who is a Volunteer Resource Supervisor. She can be reached by phone at 972-941-7114. Be sure to mention you read about this in Volunteer Today.

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