Introducing the SAVMA Awards Keynote Speaker: Brenda Meller
Inspiring Volunteer Engagement in a Time of Renewal
Across the United States, volunteerism is experiencing a renaissance. More than 75 million Americans—28.3% of the population—formally volunteered between 2022 and 2023. As a result, they collectively contributed nearly 5 billion hours of service valued at $167 billion. Furthermore, Arizona alone outpaced the national average with a 30% formal volunteering rate while also boasting one of the highest values of volunteer time in the nation at $32.07 per hour.
Behind these numbers lies something even more profound: a renewed belief in the power of people to create change together. From parents leading classroom programs to retirees mentoring young professionals, communities are increasingly rediscovering that, indeed, engagement is both the heartbeat of democracy and the backbone of compassion.
As the Southern Arizona Volunteer Management Association (SAVMA) prepares to honor those who make this spirit tangible at the 2026 SAVMA Volunteer Awards, we are thrilled to announce a keynote speaker who perfectly embodies this movement’s energy and purpose: Brenda Meller—LinkedIn strategist, nonprofit champion, and author of Social Media Pie: How to Enjoy a Bigger Slice of LinkedIn.
A Voice for Connection and Purpose
Brenda Meller is more than a marketing expert; in fact, she is a connector, storyteller, and mentor who believes that, when done with authenticity and purpose, professional networking can truly be a force for good. Moreover, as the founder and CEO of Meller Marketing, Brenda has established a national reputation for helping individuals and organizations leverage the power of LinkedIn. Consequently, they are able to amplify their impact.
Her sessions are never just about algorithms or branding; they’re about belonging. Whether she’s working with a nonprofit, a board of directors, or a team of volunteer managers, Brenda emphasizes one essential truth: people don’t connect with organizations—they connect with people.
This is what makes Brenda such an inspiring fit for SAVMA’s annual celebration. Our community of Volunteer Engagement Professionals (VEPs) works tirelessly to foster meaningful connections between people and their purpose. Like Brenda, they know that technology is just a tool—what matters most is the humanity behind every connection.
About the SAVMA Volunteer Awards
The SAVMA Volunteer Awards have recognized the individuals and organizations that enhance Southern Arizona through service. These awards highlight the outstanding contributions of innovative volunteer program leaders, inspiring youth, and dedicated retirees. They showcase the remarkable impact that results when compassion is combined with commitment.
Each honoree represents a story of hope—a reminder that our collective progress depends on those who give their time, talent, and heart.
The awards event is also an opportunity to connect, recharge, and celebrate the profession that makes community impact possible. Volunteer Engagement Professionals are the architects of engagement—the strategists who align missions with human energy. SAVMA’s 2024–2027 Strategic Plan calls on us to Connect, Align, and Empower, and the Volunteer Awards are the living expression of that vision.
Why Brenda Meller?
Brenda Meller [Professional photography by Headshots by Scott Lawrence scottlawrencephoto.com]
Her keynote, “How to Tap into Our LinkedIn Networks to Support Your Nonprofit—For Employees, Board Members, and Volunteers,” will guide attendees through practical, inclusive steps to leverage LinkedIn as a tool for mission growth and community engagement.
Brenda’s approach to social media is rooted in generosity—a concept deeply familiar to those who work in volunteerism. Her teachings empower nonprofit professionals and volunteers alike to use their digital presence as an extension of their community purpose.
She often reminds audiences, “LinkedIn isn’t about collecting connections; it’s about building relationships that make a difference.” For those of us who manage volunteers, that message resonates deeply. It’s the same mindset that drives succ
ssful volunteer engagement—where relationships, trust, and shared goals turn good intentions into lasting impact.
Empowerment Through Storytelling
As volunteerism evolves, storytelling has never been more vital. Volunteers want to see themselves reflected in the missions they serve. Donors and partners are drawn to authenticity. Communities are inspired by transparency and progress.
Brenda Meller’s expertise lies in helping organizations share their impact in ways that are both strategic and heartfelt. She teaches leaders to embrace their stories, celebrate their people, and amplify their voices online—skills that every VEP can use to champion volunteer engagement within their organization.
In her book Social Media Pie, Brenda uses the metaphor of a pie to illustrate how professionals can grow their reach by “sharing more of the pie” through generosity, recognition, and collaboration. For volunteer leaders, this concept is transformative. When we share our successes, celebrate our volunteers, and uplift one another publicly, we don’t lose visibility—we multiply it.
Volunteerism at a Crossroads
The 2023 Volunteer and Community Service Trends report reminds us that while engagement is rising, resources are tightening. Many nonprofits are facing increased demand for services with flat or declining funding. That means volunteers—and the professionals who manage them—are more essential than ever.
Brenda Meller, Keynote Speaker [Professional photography by Headshots by Scott Lawrence scottlawrencephoto.com]
In this context, Brenda’s keynote arrives at a perfect time. Her insights will help organizations translate these trends into opportunity—using social media not just for recruitment, but for retention, recognition, and community building.
When volunteers see their impact celebrated publicly, when board members use their networks to champion causes, and when staff feel empowered to share their mission online, engagement deepens. SAVMA’s work to build data-informed, personalized impact depends on professionals who know how to tell their stories effectively—and Brenda Meller is here to help us do just that.
A Celebration of Professional Excellence
The SAVMA Volunteer Awards aren’t just about recognition—they’re about raising the visibility of the volunteer engagement profession itself.
Volunteer Engagement Professionals are strategists, educators, advocates, and bridge-builders. They ensure that every volunteer is informed, included, prepared, supported, resourced, heard, growing, and appreciated—standards codified in SAVMA’s Volunteer Needs Inventory.
This year’s awards will honor individuals and organizations that embody those values in practice. And with Brenda Meller joining us, attendees can expect not only a celebration, but also a challenge—to elevate their own visibility, leadership, and advocacy for the profession.
What to Expect at the 2026 SAVMA Volunteer Awards
- Keynote by Brenda Meller – How to Tap into Our LinkedIn Networks to Support Your Nonprofit
A lively, hands-on session designed to help professionals, board members, and volunteers harness LinkedIn for outreach, storytelling, and collaboration. - Recognition of Honorees – Celebrate outstanding volunteers and programs making an impact across Southern Arizona.
- Networking and Inspiration – Connect with colleagues, share best practices, and discover new ways to empower your volunteers.
- Community Impact Showcase – A visual display of volunteer achievements and milestones from SAVMA member organizations.
- Opportunities for Sponsors – Event sponsorships include complimentary tickets to the Awards celebration, offering unparalleled exposure and connection to the region’s most engaged civic leaders.
Sponsorships and Registration
The SAVMA Volunteer Awards 2026 are made possible through the generous support of sponsors who believe in the power of volunteerism.
Sponsorship packages include a variety of benefits—from brand exposure and inclusion in event marketing to opportunities to underwrite SAVMA’s annual professional development programs. Sponsorship not only demonstrates community leadership, but it also supports the continued growth of volunteer engagement excellence in Southern Arizona.
Registration for the Awards celebration is separate from SAVMA membership and programming, but tickets are included with all sponsorship packages.
Bonus Learning Opportunity: After-Awards Workshop with Brenda Meller
Extend the inspiration beyond the celebration by joining Brenda Meller for a hands-on workshop the day after the Awards:
“How to Tap into Our LinkedIn Networks to Support Your Nonprofit—For Your Employees, Board Members & Volunteers.”
In this interactive session, Brenda will guide participants through the practical steps of building a mission-driven presence on LinkedIn—teaching you how to transform online connections into real-world impact. You’ll learn how to activate your organization’s network, invite your board and volunteers to amplify your posts, and create authentic engagement that raises visibility for your cause. Award sponsors receive 1 reserve ticket per sponsor tier. Registration is required, and space is limited.
A Shared Vision for the Future
SAVMA’s 2024–2027 Strategic Plan envisions “a supported and connected network of Volunteer Engagement Professionals, inspiring a thriving civic-minded culture.”
Each year, the Volunteer Awards move that vision forward—celebrating the best among us while deepening the connections that strengthen the field. This year’s keynote speaker exemplifies that vision through her unique blend of authenticity, generosity, and innovation.
Brenda Meller’s career demonstrates that professional networking and volunteer engagement share the same heart: people helping people grow.
A Message from the SAVMA Leadership Team
“The SAVMA Volunteer Awards honor the individuals and organizations who embody the spirit of service in Southern Arizona. It is thrilling to welcome Brenda Meller as the keynote speaker. Her message of connection and empowerment mirrors our mission and will inspire Volunteer Engagement Professionals and community leaders alike to see LinkedIn as a tool for amplifying purpose.”
— SAVMA Board of Directors
Why This Moment Matters
Volunteerism is not just recovering—it is transforming. New generations are bringing fresh perspectives, hybrid technology is expanding access, and communities are rallying around shared challenges.
As these trends converge, the role of the Volunteer Engagement Professional becomes more critical. Our profession bridges the gap between intention and impact, ensuring that every act of service is strategic, safe, and meaningful.
Brenda Meller’s keynote reminds us that this transformation doesn’t stop with the volunteers we lead—it starts with us. By investing in our own visibility and sharing our collective expertise, we advance not only our missions but the reputation of volunteer engagement itself.
Join Us
Celebrate excellence. Be inspired. Learn from one of the most engaging voices in digital strategy.
Brenda Meller will deliver the keynote at the 2026 SAVMA Volunteer Awards, an unforgettable event dedicated to connection, celebration, and empowerment.
Whether you are a volunteer manager, nonprofit leader, or community champion, this event is your opportunity to honor those who give back—and to strengthen your own practice in the process.
Together, we are shaping the next chapter of civic engagement in Southern Arizona.
Join us, celebrate with us, and help us make the pie bigger for everyone.
Event Details
📅 Date: January 22, 2025
📍 Location: Tucson Convention Center, Tucson, AZ
🎤 Keynote Speaker: Brenda Meller, CEO of Meller Marketing
🎟️ Tickets: Available separately. Included with all sponsorship packages.
💻 Learn more and register: https://bit.ly/SAVMAAWARDS2026MellerWorkshop
About Brenda Meller
Brenda Meller is a national speaker, coach, and founder of Meller Marketing, where she helps individuals and organizations unlock the potential of LinkedIn. With over 20 years of experience in marketing and communications, she brings a unique blend of warmth, wit, and practical expertise to every presentation.
A passionate advocate for women in business and nonprofit leadership, Brenda is the author of Social Media Pie: How to Enjoy a Bigger Slice of LinkedIn, and a frequent contributor to webinars, podcasts, and conferences nationwide. Forbes, Social Media Examiner, and Nonprofit Hub have featured her work.
When she’s not helping others master LinkedIn, Brenda volunteers her time to mentor professionals seeking career growth and purpose-driven work.
Connect with Brenda on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/brendameller.
About SAVMA
The Southern Arizona Volunteer Management Association (SAVMA) promotes excellence in volunteer program management by providing educational programs, leadership, resources, and peer networking throughout Southern Arizona.
SAVMA’s members actively empower volunteers, strengthen nonprofit capacity, and advance civic engagement as Volunteer Engagement Professionals (VEPs) and leaders. Through its Connect–Align–Empower strategic framework, SAVMA fosters collaboration, professional growth, and community impact.