Volunteer Retention
Nonprofit boards around the country use self-assessments as a way to retain the vitality of volunteer organizations. This tool provides the opportunity for members to have a frank conversation with themselves to determine if they are still making a difference or if it is time to transition to another role. Many board members find it satisfying to work on specific projects by joining a task force of a committee after several years of service on the board.
To be an effective tool, self-assessments should include honest reflection on the following considerations:
- Do you understand and support the mission of Main Street?
- Can you effectively advocate for the program and discuss the benefits of Main Street with members of your community?
- Do you contribute financially and/or in kind according to your means to further Main Street’s efforts?
- Have you been present at most of the board and/or committee meetings?
- Have you attended and participated in special events hosted by Main Street?
- Does your purpose for joining the board still ring true?
- Are you excited to attend the monthly meeting, or has it become routine?
- Are there others who want to get involved? Would Main Street benefit from having you as a loyal supporter rather than a board member? Is there a different role you could play with Main Street?
- Are you satisfied and rewarded by participating on the board?
Another tool that can be helpful in preparing (and reminding) board members of their role is an annual commitment letter. This letter outlines the anticipated number of meetings, volunteer hours and events, expectation of financial commitment, and other key requests that will be made of a board member. Paired with a self assessment, these tools can help boards stay fresh and vital with eager volunteers.
Review of a code of ethics and conflict of interest statement will also help to refresh a board’s knowledge of what’s acceptable versus what might cross the line. Because many board members have a personal stake in Main Street’s success and could potentially benefit from its programs, you should talk about conflicts of interest before you encounter a question. Many boards annually review and each member affirms their adherence to a code to help keep things running above-board.
The benefit of using tools such as a self-assessment and an annual commitment letter is that board members are given a yearly check-up to take time to consider whether circumstances have changed over the course of the year. Maybe you have joined a new board, changed jobs, or find yourself chasing your kids’ soccer team. Do not be afraid to have a frank discussion with yourself about your time limits. There are many opportunities, beyond participating on the board, to volunteer with a Main Street organization.
Small towns in particular need to be careful of burnout since the size of the community frequently translates to a smaller pool of volunteers to tap for Main Street and the “same ten people” end a hand. Be sure to respect and recognize loyal supporters so they feel the love.
Look online for sample self-assessments and commitment letters, or contact Colorado Main Street staff.
[R]otate one-third of the members off the board each year to prevent burnout, attract new leadership, and avoid domineering personalities.
— Main Street Handbook
Like visiting relatives, board members can overstay their welcome. Use the board self-assessment to honestly critique your contributions to the organization.
Program managers do not want to ask board members to move on. If you have missed more meetings than you should, your efforts might be better spent volunteering for special assignments.