As we celebrate Thanksgiving and prepare to wrap up the year, we (as nonprofit organizations) often celebrate and thank donors and sponsors that financially supported our work. But, don’t overlook the many volunteers that gave their time and talents to implement the work of Main Street and further local revitalization efforts.
Demonstrating gratitude is key to a robust volunteer recruitment and retention program and can be as simple as sending a thank you card, spotlighting volunteers on socials, and/or celebrating them on your website. You might also consider giving branded swag such as t-shirts, hats, mugs, water bottles, and/or tote bags to volunteers. Plus, these types of thank you gifts provide extra visibility for your organization! Many Virginia Main Street (VMS) organizations host an annual reception for their volunteers. Some even do this in conjunction with their annual meeting, while others have a stand-alone event.
Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. (CRI) recently hosted their annual volunteer appreciation event, which includes food, drinks, socializing, and awards. Each year CRI carefully selects its Champion, Volunteer and Partner of the Year. The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes one individual selected from among all CRI volunteers for their selfless commitment to outstanding volunteerism. The Champion of the Year Award is presented to an individual who has supported and worked to promote the organization’s efforts in making downtown a destination for locals and visitors alike. The Partner of the Year Award highlights CRI community partners and is awarded to an impactful sponsoring and/or supporting entity.
“Volunteers are the cornerstone of our organization. It is only through the work of our volunteers that Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. is able to fulfill our mission of enhancing, celebrating, and enriching Culpeper’s Downtown and our community. Their time, talents, and dedication make a tremendous difference in our community, and they are greatly appreciated.”
Jessica Jenkins, Executive Director, Culpeper Renaissance, Inc.
Fredericksburg Virginia Main Street (FVMS) recently hosted a special volunteer appreciation event for those that contributed to another successful A Downtown Affair event, which included volunteers from the University of Mary Washington’s Women’s Softball team, the local Target store, and Economic Development and Tourism. Festivities included food and a whole group game of Rock Paper Scissors that was led by FVMS treasurer, Philip Pierce.
“We saw a simple game of Rock Paper Scissors as a fun and engaging way to create community and connections amongst our volunteers. For Fredericksburg Main Street, creating these connections is important to keep our volunteers engaged with our mission but to also feel a sense of community to keep them involved.”
Chris Allen, Interim Executive Director, Fredericksburg Virginia Main Street
Main Street organizations are highly dependent on volunteers. In 2022, Advancing Virginia Main Street communities reported more than 37,500 total volunteer hours, which has an estimated market value of nearly $1.2 million. Consistently and creatively saying “thank you” can go a long way toward building a loyal volunteer base, building capacity, and increasing sustainability.
Photo credits: Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. & Fredericksburg Virginia Main Street
Virginia Main Street 