An Engaged Group of Nonprofits Participated in a Thought-Provoking Workshop on the Challenges of Recruiting and Retaining Volunteers Over Lunch at the Winnetka Community House
Nonprofits Looking for the Secrets to Finding and Retaining Loyal Volunteers Enjoyed Lunch and a Stimulating Discussion on May 30th at the Winnetka Community House
Executive Directors and Volunteer Managers from a wide variety of Nonprofits came together for lunch and to learn best practices for recruiting and retaining volunteers for their organizations. Attendees gained tangible insights on volunteer recruitment, training and retention — how to provide a rewarding experience for those valuable volunteers who not only support you with extra hands but also provide valuable PR impact in the community. We also discussed the potential positive affects of utilizing individuals with disabilities in volunteer program!
Our Presenters
Ann Healing, Director of Volunteer and Church Engagement at Breakthrough. Ann leads their volunteer program consisting of over 2000 volunteers a year. Breakthrough is a nonprofit that serves youth and families who live in East Garfield Park, as well as adults who are experiencing homelessness. She has over 15 years of experience leading, managing, and training staff and volunteers in the non-profit sector.
Barbara Tubekis, Executive Director, The Volunteer Center (VC). Barb has been director since 1994 and in coordination with board and staff members of the VC, she has managed a full service volunteer program for over 15,000 individuals and service groups looking for meaningful opportunities with its growing list of nonprofit partners (currently 155+). Through its website, five annual Service Days, trainings and recognition of exceptional volunteers, the VC is a valuable resource that inspires volunteerism. Barb has lead workshops on volunteer management and served on the Serve Illinois Commission for eight years.
Tricia Luzadder, Ventures Program Manager, Search, Inc. Tricia oversees two social enterprises of Search, Inc, a long-standing service provider to adults with disabilities. No Boundaries, Train for Work/Train for Life, is a program designed to build essential skills for the 21st century for transitioning teens and adults with disabilities who are interested in employment. Jjslist.com is a disability awareness website under which the Hop on the Bus to Independence and Disability Awareness Trainings fall.