Events from the past year have served to highlight the importance of increasing focus on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). In this article we will provide a checklist that could be useful in beginning to examine your own program and that I have used in consultation of others’ Volunteer Programs through a DEI lens.
We are in a world that requires us to pivot, react and respond to the changes in the non-profit environment. Volunteer programs have been hit hard by the pandemic requiring them to shift to virtual programming and/or closing their doors and being shut down completely. In many cases, volunteer programs and those who lead volunteers will need to dig deep into their leadership skills and look at the best ways to serve their communities and develop meaningful volunteer opportunities.
Certainly, volunteers bring tremendous value to nonprofit organizations by contributing in many capacities. You may have firsthand experience with the impact volunteers can make. They might help with in-person or virtual events, facilitate fundraising, promote advocacy, partake in programs and service delivery, or be involved on a leadership board — to name a few. It’s important to keep in mind that with each type of volunteering, there is a necessary process for properly vetting volunteers as you onboard them.