Every volunteer program has its natural rhythms. Some months are buzzing with activity—festivals, campaigns, big events. Other times, things go quiet. Maybe it’s the lull after a major fundraiser or a seasonal break in services.

The slower periods can leave volunteers feeling unimportant or even forgotten. When volunteers start feeling that way, you know as well as I do it won't be long before they disappear.

But quiet times don’t have to mean disengagement. In fact, they can be an ideal opportunity to build stronger connections, deepen skills and make your team feel valued in new ways. Here are a few ideas for engaging volunteers during downtimes to both strengthen your program, and keep your volunteers connected and committed.

Check in without an ask.

When things slow down, one of the simplest and most effective things you can do is reach out – without asking for anything. A short email or phone call just to say, “I was thinking about you today and wanted to say thanks for everything you’ve done,” goes a long way. Don’t overthink it. Just be warm and genuine.

I had a volunteer tell me once that the only time they heard from their coordinator was when there was a shift to fill. That is not exactly motivating.

Use the quiet periods to build relationships and remind people you care about them, not just their work.

Offer learning........

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