Research Finds Volunteer Efforts Down Among Teens — Five Rules for a Successful Volunteer Program

2) Provide continuing education/training to volunteers to increase organizational competency. As the individual gains experience and becomes increasingly familiar and comfortable with the organization, the volunteer feels more vested, willing and able to accept additional responsibility. Leadership/On-The-Job training provides volunteers with the opportunity to move up the organizational ladder and increase their contribution to the organization.

3) Provide the tools to succeed. The proper tools include forms, checklists, feedback, mentoring, etc.

4) Include recognition programs that showcase volunteer efforts among their peers. This includes use of the President's Volunteer Service Award as well as other similar programs that help celebrate a volunteer’s contributions to the organization. Include newsletters, e-mail blasts, press releases and award functions. While volunteers provide their time for all the right reasons and not for the recognition, acknowledging the efforts is generally greatly appreciated and encourages further participation.

5) Spread the workload out among many. Do not make volunteers feel like it is all on their shoulders. People volunteer to feel good and to support a cause they believe in. They do not do it to create additional stress in their lives. The moment volunteer activity begins to resemble the stress and anxiety associated with work the volunteers are likely to begin the process of unwinding their involvement. Too much stress creates the "I don't need this" scenario. In every organization someone is likely to own the lion's share of the burden. However, these individuals should be management (executive director, board members, etc.). The rank and file volunteer should feel energized about volunteering.

Jesse is a Managing Director for Carillon Capital Partners' Financial Institutions Group (www.CarillonCapital.com). Jesse spent nearly 20 years in leadership and executive management positions. He holds a B.A. from UCLA, is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School and recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award. Jesse can be reached by e-mail at MrJesseTorres@gmail.com. He can also be found on LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/in/jessetorres and on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/jstorres.