Did you read about this in Fairs and Expos Magazine? Download the detailed PDF now.
This is a summary of the “Finding More Volunteers” workshop and discussion led by Becky McCray at the December 2025 International Association of Fairs and Expos Convention in Denver.
1. Recruit Youth Volunteers Through Their Relationships and Activities
Youth volunteers come in pairs or groups, not as individuals. Partner with unexpected groups. Frame volunteering as a path to employment.
2. Become a Movement that Attracts People, Not a Membership that Burdens Them
Eliminate or minimize committee structures that require year-round meetings. Create talent pools where people can be called on when needed. Tell people how you make a difference in the community.
3. Find NEW Volunteers Where They Already Gather Around Shared Interests
Replace declining civic organizations with informal activity-based groups. Talk to every group that uses your facilities throughout the year.
4. Keep Volunteers with Affordable Celebrations, Recognition and Letting Go of Non-Essentials
Show value with appreciation events, gift cards, distinctive volunteer shirts, thank you notes and text messages. Stop zealous follow up on nonessential tasks.
5. No Coordinator? Share the Load Across Your Board and Community
Delegate volunteer management by section to board members. Use newsletters to acknowledge volunteers efficiently. Investigate loaned executive programs.
6. You Can’t Always Fire Difficult Volunteers, But You Can Help Them Find New Meaning
Redirect negative energy into more positive roles. Let new volunteers bypass conflict.
Get all the details in this shareable PDF!
More ideas for you
Find More Volunteers video to share
Find More Volunteers, includes a lot of the big concepts, and is shareable so they can convince others. https://learnto.saveyour.town/find-more-volunteers
The Book: The Idea Friendly Guide
Available wherever you buy books in ebook, paperback and large print. Learn more and pick up your copy at https://saveyour.town/IFGuide
Becky McCray
Email me at becky@saveyour.town
Or invite me to your community or event here https://beckymccray.com
