With so many types of volunteers out there, it can be tricky to know how to make the most out of the time they're offering you. Helping your volunteers tap into their potential can mean the difference between impact and impact. That's why it's essential to understand the seven main types of volunteers and how you can use tech to maximize their influence.

So let's dive into these seven volunteer types and how you can set them up for success to make a real difference!

What are the 7 types of volunteers?

Volunteering comes in many forms. Though many may think volunteering means cleaning up beaches and passing out food, sometimes it means developing a website or managing funds. With so many different opportunities available, volunteers can be sure to find something that fits their interests and skills.

Here's a list of seven of the most popular types of volunteering!

Event-base volunteers

Volunteering at events is usually the first thing that comes to mind. We could be talking about either one-time things like marathons and galas or more regular stuff like stocking a food pantry or helping out with a Habitat build.

Event-based volunteer opportunities are wonderful for those who don't want to commit to a long-term volunteer role. It's a great way for people to get involved in your community and help out with something meaningful, even if it's only for a short period of time.

Board members

Board members are essential to any organization. It's typical that they serve on committees in addition to being on the board. It's the board members' duty to find and assess the executive director as well as manage the finances. They need to be prepared to make tough decisions and keep the organization running efficiently. Board members are also responsible for making sure the organization complies with all laws and regulations, as well as adhering to the mission statement.

Skilled volunteers

Skilled volunteers with professional backgrounds can really help out with your cause! Think legal, marketing, electrician, and other specialties that can be put to good use. It's a great way to get that extra bit of help while taking advantage of the expertise your volunteers are offering.

Drivers

Volunteering as a driver can be a great way to help out those in need. Drivers can transport goods like food, furniture, and more - or even give people rides. It's an awesome way to lend a hand (and a car)!

Mentors

Volunteer mentors serve to coach either individuals or groups, often in a workplace or educational setting. They help make sure the goals are achieved steering people in the right direction.

Excellent volunteer mentors have the ability to empathize, understand, and motivate the people they are mentoring. They're knowledgeable in the area they are mentoring and have a genuine interest in helping others.

Fundraisers

Fundraising volunteers help drive donations through phone calls, door-to-door engagement, and hosting fundraising events. Along with event-based volunteering, fundraising is another well-known volunteer opportunity.

Advocates

Advocates are volunteers who lend their support to a cause. They might sign petitions and help spread the message of the organization on social media.

Showing that you're doing good and making a difference in people's lives is one of the best ways to get people to join your cause. That's where your advocates come in - they inspire others to participate in your nonprofit.,

How do you manage each type of volunteer?

Sure, managing volunteers can be a challenge - every volunteer type is different and, therefore, has different needs and expectations. But, don't worry - there are plenty of great ways to manage each type of volunteer and ensure everyone is satisfied. 

Here's a short list of a few applications that can help you with volunteer management.

Civic Champs

Civic Champs is the go-to solution for volunteer management and engagement. Our event creation tools are super simple to use and make it easy to set up recurring volunteer opportunities. All your volunteers have to do is check out the available shifts and sign up - no fuss! From fundraising events to 5k races, auctions, tutoring, or whatever else you need help with, we simplify event sign-up. It's super easy to see why Civic Champs is great for managing event-based volunteers.

Boardable

Boardable's platform makes it easy for board members to come together, no matter where they are. It's the perfect way to streamline operations and focus on what's important. With features that help prepare, engage, and take action on key issues, Boardable provides a comprehensive board management experience, from before to after crucial meetings.

Catchafire

Burnout is a real thing, but you can focus on your nonprofit's mission by tapping into the talented volunteer professionals out there who will lend a helping hand with your fundraising, marketing, operations, and similar projects. Nonprofits can get access to the Catchafire platform to be connected with skilled volunteers.

Ride Scheduler

Streamline your volunteer drivers' activities with Ride Scheduler. Drivers can log onto the app and view their current and future rides, as well as those they've already completed. They can also accept and cancel rides they can't make.

Ride Scheduler works for organizations of any size: it doesn't matter if you need to schedule a few rides or hundreds of rides in a month, the app will help you do it with less effort, saving you valuable time. Civic Champs will launch a similar feature soon!

Mentoring Works

Mentoring Works is the place to go for help when it comes to figuring out how to maximize mentoring for your organization and for the individuals involved. Their expertise is delivered in a cost-effective and easy-to-understand manner, so you'll be able to mentor to the fullest and get the best results.

Qgiv

Qgiv's Virtual Terminal is a great app for fundraisers who need to accept donations on the go. Whether you're at a coffee shop with a donor or at an event, this app has got you covered! It helps nonprofits stay organized with in-person donations, allocate donations to specific funds, accept electronic checks, and provide instant receipts. So easy and convenient!

Quorum

Quorum is a public affairs software that helps you keep track of policy changes and ensure your engagement is always on point. Segment advocates based on activity and legislative district and create reports on your most active volunteers.

Start maximizing your impact

As a volunteer manager, understanding the different types of volunteers can help you create an awesome experience for them. With the right strategies in place, you can unlock the power of volunteering and create positive, lasting change. Use tech like Civic Champs for all your volunteer management needs to release untapped volunteer potential!

As CEO of Civic Champs, I lead our team of passionate change leaders to create technology solutions to create a seamless and rewarding volunteering experience for both volunteers and service organizations.