How do you increase diversity and inclusion in volunteer programs?

1 Why diversity and inclusion matter

Diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords, they are essential for the success and sustainability of your volunteer program. Diversity means having volunteers from different backgrounds, identities, experiences, and perspectives, who can bring their unique skills, talents, and insights to your work. Inclusion means creating a culture of belonging, respect, and empowerment, where every volunteer feels valued, supported, and engaged. The advantages of a diverse and inclusive volunteer program are vast - it can help you reach more communities and beneficiaries by reflecting and understanding their needs; it can boost creativity and innovation through the diverse ideas and opinions of your volunteers; it can improve your performance and impact by leveraging the skills, knowledge, and abilities of your volunteers; and it can bolster your reputation by displaying your commitment to social justice, equity, and inclusion.

2 How to recruit diverse volunteers

The first step to increasing diversity and inclusion in your volunteer program is to recruit diverse volunteers, which means expanding outreach and communication strategies to attract and engage people from different groups and segments of society. To do this, you should conduct a diversity audit of your current volunteer base to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. Additionally, review and update your recruitment materials, such as websites, flyers, brochures, and social media posts to ensure they are inclusive, accessible, and appealing. Partnering with diverse organizations and networks such as community groups, cultural associations, faith-based organizations, schools, colleges, and businesses can also help promote volunteer opportunities and referrals. Lastly, create and advertise diverse volunteer roles that match the interests, skills, and availability of different types of volunteers like youth, seniors, families, professionals, students, newcomers, or those with disabilities.

3 How to train diverse volunteers

The second step to increasing diversity and inclusion in your volunteer program is to train diverse volunteers. This involves providing them with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to be successful in their role, as well as educating them about your organization's values and policies regarding diversity and inclusion. To do this, you should develop and deliver a comprehensive orientation program that covers the basics of your mission, vision, goals, and culture, as well as the specific duties and tasks of the volunteer role. Additionally, offer ongoing training and development opportunities that focus on topics such as cultural competency, anti-oppression, anti-racism, conflict resolution, and team building. Furthermore, use diverse and inclusive training methods such as online modules, webinars, workshops, videos, podcasts, and handouts that cater to different learning styles. Lastly, seek feedback from your volunteers to evaluate the effectiveness of your training program and identify areas for improvement.

4 How to retain diverse volunteers

Retaining diverse volunteers is the third step to increasing diversity and inclusion in your volunteer program. To keep volunteers motivated, engaged, and committed to your organization, it's important to provide regular support and supervision, create a sense of community and belonging, offer flexible and meaningful volunteer opportunities, and acknowledge and appreciate them. This could involve checking in with volunteers, listening to their concerns and suggestions, addressing their challenges and problems, providing guidance and advice, celebrating diversity and inclusion of your team, matching skills with organization needs, expressing gratitude verbally or in writing, highlighting their stories on social media or website, nominating them for awards or recognition programs, and inviting them to events or activities.

5 How to measure diversity and inclusion

Measuring diversity and inclusion in your volunteer program is the fourth step to increasing it. This involves collecting and analyzing data and information to assess the progress and outcomes of your efforts, and reporting and communicating your results to demonstrate accountability and transparency. To do this, you should define and track diversity and inclusion indicators and metrics, such as the number, demographics, satisfaction, retention, and impact of your volunteers. Additionally, use diverse methods of data collection, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, observations, and testimonials to capture both quantitative and qualitative aspects of your performance. Analyze the data to identify strengths and weaknesses in your practices, compare results with goals and standards, and generate insights for improvement. Lastly, report and communicate findings to share with stakeholders, showcase achievements and impacts, and solicit feedback for future actions.