Be Prepared: Managing volunteers in emergencies

Introduction

This document serves as an essential resource for organisations and practitioners involved in volunteer management, particularly during emergencies. It encompasses a wide range of tools including project consultations, case studies, position descriptions, and debriefing checklists. The focus is on the critical role of volunteers, both trained and spontaneous, as well as the emerging field of digital volunteering.

Summary

The guide offers practical advice on creating volunteer position descriptions, recruitment, selection, screening, training, and retention strategies. It underscores the necessity of preparation and adherence to best practices in managing volunteers effectively in crisis situations. Volunteering ACT's contribution enriches the guide with insights on planning, volunteer management principles, team value, and the importance of succession planning.

Applications in Volunteer Management

For organisations seeking to enhance their emergency volunteer management, this document provides checklists, guidelines, and references to national and international frameworks. The guide's emphasis on preparedness, resource utilisation, and the strategic management of spontaneous volunteers offers invaluable benefits to volunteer organisations aiming for efficiency and impact in their emergency response efforts.