How SAVMA is leading the shift from “volunteer rights” to sound, modern practice.

Volunteers strengthen our communities every day. Their work shapes programs, lifts organizations, and fuels missions across Southern Arizona. To support volunteers well, we need clear expectations that focus on what helps people succeed—not outdated lists of “rights” that frame volunteerism through an entitlement lens.

SAVMA’s Volunteer Needs Inventory (VNI) offers a fresh, research-aligned framework. It centers on what volunteers need to contribute safely, confidently, and meaningfully. The VNI aligns with SAVMA’s Connect – Align – Empower strategic directions and reflects our commitment to inclusive, competent, and data-informed volunteer engagement.

Why Move Beyond the Old “Bill of Rights”?

Traditional “bill of rights” tools were built on the idea of individual entitlement. While well-intended, they were not grounded in modern volunteer engagement standards. They also placed responsibility on volunteers to demand support rather than on organizations to design support.

Today’s Volunteer Engagement Professionals (VEPs) work in complex, data-driven environments. They manage risk, build learning pathways, and align volunteer work with mission and outcomes. Because of that, volunteers need a framework that:

  • builds partnership, not hierarchy
  • encourages shared accountability
  • aligns with competency-based practice
  • reflects current inclusion and risk-management standards
  • supports evidence-based learning and supervision

The VNI moves us forward.

🔍 The Volunteer Needs Inventory (VNI)

What volunteers need to thrive — and what strong programs are built to provide.

1. Volunteers Need to Be Informed

Volunteers work best when they understand the mission, goals, and values of the organization. They also need clear guidance about tasks, safety issues, and expectations. Sharing this information helps volunteers see how their work creates impact.

2. Volunteers Need to Be Included

Volunteers deserve to be treated as partners. They should never be viewed as “free help.” Their role is a position with purpose. When volunteers feel included as co-workers, they gain confidence and a sense of belonging.

3. Volunteers Need the Right Placement

People do their best work when their skills match their assignment. Programs should consider each person’s interests, strengths, and experience. Good placement supports quality, safety, and satisfaction.

4. Volunteers Need Preparation

Training builds trust and helps volunteers feel ready. Each volunteer should receive orientation and task-specific training before they begin. Ongoing learning keeps everyone safe and ensures quality service.

5. Volunteers Need Support

Strong support includes coaching, check-ins, and helpful feedback. Good supervision builds skill and confidence. Volunteer Engagement Professionals use clear systems to guide performance and celebrate growth.

6. Volunteers Need Resources

Everyone needs the right tools to work well. Volunteers should have access to space, supplies, and safe working conditions. A well-equipped volunteer is more effective.

7. Volunteers Need to Be Heard

Volunteers bring fresh insight. They notice patterns and ask smart questions. Programs grow stronger when volunteers can share ideas and give input.

8. Volunteers Need to Grow and Learn

Learning keeps people engaged. Training builds new skills and supports personal or career goals. Many volunteers want chances to stretch, lead, or try new roles.

9. Volunteers Need Appreciation

Appreciation should be part of everyday culture. Simple “thank-yous” matter. Recognition events and awards also honor long-term impact. When appreciation is ongoing, volunteers feel seen and valued.

Why the VNI Matters

The Volunteer Needs Inventory reflects SAVMA’s commitment to excellence in volunteer engagement. It aligns with:

The VNI shifts responsibility away from volunteers and places it where it belongs—within organizations and programs that design volunteer roles, guide performance, and build cultures where everyone can succeed.

SAVMA is proud to champion this forward-looking model and share it with organizations across Southern Arizona and beyond.

Call to Action

Ready to strengthen your volunteer program? Explore SAVMA’s training, resources, and community:

Together, we can build volunteer programs grounded in clarity, safety, inclusion, and growth.