Volunteer Recruitment

A researcher from the Main Street program contacted me about using social networking sites for volunteer recruitment. It made me think about how effective these sites really are. I have used www.volunteermatch.com, www.facebook.com, www.myspace.com, and www.craigslist.com to post ads about Fairview Main Street. However, that's it...providing information mostly about the organization and capacity for involvement. We've had a total of 4 volunteers referred to us that did not follow through with a commitment despite our efforts. I tried a new idea this month, one that I've been pushing for since our "Breakfast with Santa & Tree Lighting" event in December to create volunteer job descriptions and a 30 minute volunteer program. With the Fairview Farmer's Market coming up, I was able to tailor a description of tasks and responsibilities for helping us. And I've had two responses already! So I think these websites can be effective if you can provide a clear job description, define the length of time for involvement, and the volunteer awards/satisfaction from his or her assistance. See below for my latest volunteer ad:

Volunteer Needed for the Fairview Farmer’s Market
Get involved to help make the Fairview Farmer’s Market a success this summer! We need volunteers of all levels of experiences and abilities. Volunteers will support getting local, fresh produce from New Jersey farmers to Camden City residents. Tasks include setting-up and breaking down tables for the farmers, providing assistance to seniors using vouchers, processing EBT transactions, assisting with promotional activities at the market, and supporting management staff. We know you are busy so we have positions that require only 30 minutes of your time or you can stay and work an entire shift that lasts 5 hours. The Fairview Farmer’s Market begins in July 2008 and runs every Wednesday morning. Please contact Nicole Yarbrough, the Community Development Coordinator, at 856-966-4003 for more information.