Written by Meg Baresic
Since its inception in 1999, International Volunteer Managers Day (IVM Day) has evolved into a global movement that seeks to highlight the unseen efforts that enable volunteer programs and organisations to operate smoothly. Taking place on November 5 every year, IVM Day provides all of us with an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the work of volunteer managers.
Volunteer managers are responsible for a variety of activities within their organisation, including (but not limited to!) volunteer recruitment and training, volunteer supervision and reporting, and volunteer recognition. The success of our volunteer-involving organisations would not be possible without the tireless dedication and passion shown by volunteer managers.
The theme for this year’s IVM Day is ‘What’s our future normal?’. This theme was selected in celebration of the day’s 25-year milestone and encourages all of us to consider what our future normal might look like. This includes an exploration of the place of volunteer leaders in National Volunteering Strategies, what the future workforce looks like, and the increasing role that Artificial Intelligence will play in volunteer management.
We can’t overstate the positive contribution that volunteer managers make. Volunteer managers change the lives of both their volunteers and those who benefit from volunteer services, and they provide the leadership and direction required to build fair and kind communities. Without their hard work and expertise, the volunteer landscape would look vastly different.
Volunteer Manager Vicki Meyer, who currently works with Inclusee (an incredible organisation that offers digital programs and activities to older Australians and First Nations people), recently spoke to Volunteering Queensland about her role as a Volunteer Manager.
“My day comprises of supporting volunteers, developing strategy and policy, overseeing the operations of the department, advancing the National Standards, supporting my team, organising and hosting events…and developing and sending volunteer communication,” she told us.
When asked what her favourite part of the role is, Vicki said “It’s hard to choose just one part – I love my job and working for Inclusee. However, connecting volunteers and participants has always been my favourite aspect of the role. It’s why our organisation exists – to ensure that there is dignity of choice for older Australians and to reduce loneliness and isolation. This is at the heart of everything we do. I also love hearing stories of impact from both volunteers and participants. Volunteering has the power to transform lives, and it is always uplifting to hear how their experience with Inclusee has helped the individual.”
The one message Vicki would share with people who are thinking about volunteering is “Volunteering can profoundly change your life; however, it can take some time to find the right role and organisation. Don’t give up!”
Volunteering Queensland also spoke to Volunteer Programs Advisor Jade Cassidy about her role at Guide Dogs Queensland. “I just stepped into this role in July, and it has been such a rewarding experience so far,” she told us with a smile.
“My role is important as it provides our volunteers with the support they need to fulfil their volunteer duties.”
When asked what message she would like to give to volunteer managers, Jade told us “International Volunteer Managers Day is a day to recognise volunteer managers and the vital role they play in organisations and coordinating volunteers. Happy International Volunteer Managers Day!”
When we posed the same question to Vicki, she said “On International Volunteer Managers Day, I want to remind volunteer managers/leaders of the hope, purpose, connection, opportunity, and impact they create daily. You are a conduit affecting deep and powerful change in society. Never underestimate the positive difference you can make in the life of a volunteer. You are one of a kind, and your uniqueness is essential to the world!”
Join us today as we recognise and shine a light on the life-changing impact made possible by our volunteer managers. We are so lucky to have them.
More posts about #IVMDay2024
About Meg
Meg Baresic is currently studying a Bachelor of Laws and Journalism at QUT. When she’s not drinking coffee or catching up with friends, Meg loves chatting to and learning from inspiring and interesting people.