To do this, look for creative ways to place a volunteer in the role of a typically paid staff member. Remember to be flexible! The duties of the volunteer will likely need to be modified compared to what a paid staff member may typically be responsible for. You will likely need to create first-ever volunteer roles and allow volunteers more opportunities for responsibility…and yes, also mistakes.  In times like these, I like to remind myself that bending is better than breaking and that changes aren’t required to be permanent. If it doesn’t work you can always return to the former way of doing things!

Curious how volunteers could possibly bolster your fundraising efforts? Many churches are asked to fund hundreds of different missionary opportunities leaving them with a need for an elimination process to select which missions are funded. In general terms, churches often like to invest in missions in which their congregants are directly involved. This leaves you with an opportunity  to make the most of your volunteer activities by asking volunteers to connect you with other congregants and groups within their church. With a history of volunteerism from congregants in the church, your ministry will then be postured for success when it is your turn to request funding for your mission field.

Quick tip: Sending a quarterly letter with an update about your ministry activities and a report on volunteer activity from within their church is often warmly received by supporting churches. 

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