Learning and Development

Learning and Development

Learning and development encompasses initiatives to improve SAVMA members knowledge of industry standards (what they know) and competencies performance (what they do with that knowledge) through skill building.

Thriving Together: Self-Care for Volunteer Success

Thriving Together: Self-Care for Volunteer Success Volunteer engagement professionals often carry out meaningful work that touches many lives. The work requires compassion, patience, and focus. Because of this, stress can build quickly. As a result, personal well-being may fade into the background. However, healthy leadership grows when balance and boundaries come first. These ideas guide Thriving Together: Self-Care for Volunteer Success, a session led by Dr. Melissa Hernandez, Jessica [...]

By Jennifer Lohse|November 19th, 2025|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|0 Comments

Annual Meeting Agenda 2025 | Amended SAVMA Bylaws and Year in Review

Welcome to SAVMA’s Annual Meeting! Each year, the Southern Arizona Volunteer Management Association (SAVMA) gathers our community of Volunteer Engagement Professionals (VEPs) for our Annual Meeting — a cornerstone of connection, learning, and reflection. It’s our opportunity to celebrate our collective achievements, elect our leadership, and look forward to the next chapter of growth guided by our strategic plan. This year’s agenda features something significant — an in-person vote [...]

By Jennifer Lohse|November 18th, 2025|Categories: SAVMA Programs|0 Comments

Understanding SAVMA’s Proposed Bylaws Changes

Understanding SAVMA’s Proposed Bylaws Changes What’s Changing and Why It Matters The Southern Arizona Volunteer Management Association (SAVMA) is updating its bylaws—the rules that govern the organization's operations. These changes reflect today’s volunteer engagement field, create more flexibility for members, and prepare SAVMA for long-term growth and success. Read the read-lined version of the revised Bylaws in their entirety here>>>>>>>>>> With this in mind, here are the key updates: [...]

By Jennifer Lohse|September 1st, 2025|Categories: Member Feedback, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

Brenda Meller at the 2026 SAVMA Volunteer Awards

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 [...]

By Jennifer Lohse|August 15th, 2025|Categories: Connect with Your Peers, Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs, Sponsors|Comments Off

2025 Proposed SAVMA Leadership

2025 Proposed SAVMA Leadership The Governance and Administration Committee of the Board of Directors is presenting the 2025 proposed SAVMA Leadership. The link to submit interest in a leadership position is perpetually open, as all members are encouraged to take up leadership. The annual meeting is December 12th. If you still need to register, please do so here so we have enough food and beverages. Board of Directors Officers (terms [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|December 1st, 2024|Categories: Member Stories, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs, Sponsors|Tags: #SAVMALeadership|Comments Off

Volunteer Engagement Defined and Measured

Volunteer Engagement Defined and Measured Volunteerism is flourishing globally, even while volunteers sit untapped and underutilized. Volunteer engagement defined and measured opens the door to standard benchmarks across the profession, at least locally. Apples and oranges make a nice visual for comparative data, but how about volunteers and headcounts? If there is a common language and shared understanding of metrics, then comparative metrics are not out of the possibility. Defining [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|June 3rd, 2024|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples, SAVMA Programs|Tags: volunteer engagement metrics, volunteer resources headcount|Comments Off

Forget the Elevator Pitch

Forget the Elevator Pitch Forget the elevator pitch, volunteer engagement professionals should rely on three big questions to tell your story. Before we get straight to the questions, let's be clear, the pitch does offer a helpful crafting concept that we shouldn't disregard. So we should start with the concept for those that are not familiar. The pitch concept, goes something like this...I'm a nonprofit employee/founder and I jump on [...]

By Tucson Foundations|May 3rd, 2024|Categories: Connect with Your Peers, Learning and Development|Comments Off

Partners: Call to Action

Partners: Call to Action Our in-box is full this month with partners call to action including voter registration deadlines, survey requests, pre-conference sessions and Virtual Conferences! There are deadlines looming so let's make this quick and easy for your punch lists. Call to Action: Apply for State AmeriCorps! Applications for the AmeriCorps State Formula Grant (RFGA#: RFGA-FOR-GOYFF-080124-00) are now being accepted. Approximately $4 million will be awarded to programs throughout [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|February 7th, 2024|Categories: VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Keynote Nicole R Smith

Announcing Keynote Speaker Nicole R Smith SAVMA Awards 2024 includes a keynote address by Nicole R Smith, CVA. She is a Panamanian-American, workforce development expert, athlete, published author, nonprofit founder, motivational speaker and sports entertainer. Nicole enthusiastically inspires her audiences with her take on today's volunteerism. She earned her Bachelor's degree via a Division I full-ride track scholarship. After graduating she founded Step It Up! Inc, a nonprofit dance organization. [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|January 2nd, 2024|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Tags: Awards, Keynote|Comments Off

Career Growth Through Professional Associations

Career Growth Through Professional Associations How much time should one invest weekly in a professional association? What do you need to ensure maximum career growth through professional associations? How do you choose the right associations? It turns out there is some pretty good recommendations out there to light our paths as Volunteer Managers in this area. Business Network International (BNI) founder, Dr. Ivan Misner, suggests that successful networkers spend between [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|December 9th, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development|Tags: Professional Development|Comments Off

National Volunteer Management Insights Survey

National Volunteer Management Insights Survey SAVMA is calling all leaders of volunteers to participate in this national volunteer management insights survey. This is VolunteerPro’s 2024 Volunteer Management Progress Report, their ninth annual survey! As they navigate the dynamic landscape of our sector, everyone is eager to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current state of affairs. Your valuable input is crucial to discovering the most current trends in volunteer engagement. [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|December 1st, 2023|Categories: Member Feedback, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

4 minute- willing and able survey!

4 minute- willing and able survey! Members, did you take the "willing and able survey?" The adage it take a village to raise a child, serves rather well when talking about the care of a membership association. The question before you as a member today is, are you willing and able to serve your profession? There survey is not meant to make members feel bad, but rather to identify barriers [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|October 26th, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, Member Feedback|Comments Off

C-Suite Must-Dos for your Volunteer Program

C-Suite Must-Dos for your Volunteer Program October is a big volunteer month These C-Suite must-dos for your volunteer program will remind you why you need SAVMA and why your volunteer engagement professionals depend on the association. Members of the volunteer management community are hard at work at recruitment events, fundraisers, interviews, orientations, planning meetings, outreach events, and conferences. Well, actually that sounds like a lot. Unfortunately, since the pandemic this [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|October 2nd, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Research study on Volunteer Administrators- Participants Needed

Research study on Volunteer Administrators Career pathways We encourage SAVMA members are to participate in a research study on Volunteer Administrators career pathways. The study is being conducted by Dr. Allison Russell, an Assistant Professor of Public and Nonprofit Management at the University of Texas at Dallas. Along with her doctoral research assistant, Kayla Parker, they are conducting a research study to investigate the career pathways of volunteer administrators. They [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|July 21st, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, Member Feedback|Comments Off

Career Pathways for Volunteer Engagement Professionals Survey

Career Pathways for Volunteer Engagement Professionals Survey There is a lack of data on career pathways for volunteer engagement professionals, causing many professionals to leave the field in search of other advancement opportunities. Our Association partner, AL!VE, has a goal to create a Career Pathways Report that will demonstrate the various job levels within our field and the competencies and skills for each level. This will give practitioners and employers [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|April 11th, 2023|Categories: Member Feedback, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

AL!VE Conference- SAVMA Saves the Date

AL!VE Conference- SAVMA Saves the Date October 17th AL!VE announces its conference theme "Leveraging Technology in a Human World: Inclusively, Responsibly, and Creatively." Each new generation of volunteers is very different from the ones before them. How do we prepare our policies, programs and recruitment in an inclusive, responsible, and creative way that looks to leverage technology in a human world? AL!VE taps Rob Jackson facilitator Rob Jackson is Director [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|April 10th, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Service Enterprise Initiative Recommended

Service Enterprise Initiative recommended by SAVMA to all members. SEI certification is a way to increase the impact of volunteerism in our community. ASU Lodestar Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Innovation is offering this certificate of distinction and its nationally recognized designation of excellence in organizational volunteer integration. Together with AL!VE and Points of Light organizations will gain access to proprietary content and research, including a robust resource library with trends and [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|March 21st, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

2023 Proposed Leadership

2023 Proposed Leadership The 2023 proposed leadership slate of officers and directors are on the agenda for the February 16, 2023 meeting of the general membership. At the annual meeting in 2023 the vote for officers was postponed for additional recruitment efforts. All things considered, a heroic effort was made in 2022 to complete this task onetime. Nominations may be made from the floor at that time, or by submitting [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|February 4th, 2023|Categories: SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

Join Us for The Annual AL!VE Conference October 18th 9:30am-5:00pm

This years focus on equipping leaders of volunteers with skills to determine what data is useful and how to tell impactful stories using different tools and technologies. Not only is this great information for those that work with volunteers but this can be applied across organizations. SAVMA members receive a discounted rate and all attendees will receive snacks and lunch! Click Here To Register

By SAVMA Leaders|September 1st, 2022|Categories: SAVMA Events, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Volunteer Appreciation Ideas

Volunteer Appreciation Ideas How To: Appreciate Your Volunteers It’s National Volunteer Appreciation Week, and in honor of the occasion, we have volunteer appreciation ideas and tips to share showing your volunteers they matter -- this week, and always. While showing appreciation for volunteers is a nice thing to do, it also benefits the recipient and the organization. Intentionally building recognition into your organization’s culture motivates volunteers and can help you [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|April 18th, 2022|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples|Comments Off

Tips for Navigating Holiday Volunteers

Tips for Navigating Holiday Volunteers Holidays encompass many things, including a time of service and giving. Many people want to give back to their community through volunteer service and as volunteer managers, we should support these volunteers just the same as we support our existing volunteers. Here are some tips for navigating holiday volunteers so they feel welcome in your organization. 5 Tips for Navigating One-Time Holiday Volunteers Prepare the [...]

By Sierra Horsey|December 15th, 2021|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples|Tags: holiday volunteers, SAVMA, single day volunteers, volunteer management|Comments Off

Join SAVMA’s Host Site for the AL!VE Hybrid Conference

Join SAVMA on October 19th for the Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference! We will be meeting together via Zoom and join break out sessions with others registered through out host site. Why join with SAVMA? Members and non-members alike get a deep discount to attend this conference but joining our host site means that you'll have conversations with others who are learning how Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion matter at the regional [...]

By Jessica Dennes|October 7th, 2021|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

SOUTHERN ARIZONA VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT AND CELEBRATION FAIR

The Southern Arizona Volunteer Management Association invites you to a volunteer fair at the Reid Park Zoo on Thursday, September 16th from 4:30-7pm. Who can Attend? All members of the public are invited to attend the 2021 annual SAVMA Volunteer & Recognition Fair. Additionally, current volunteers are welcome to attend as a “thank you” from the Southern Arizona nonprofit community. Attendees have the opportunity to explore the zoo during this [...]

By Sierra Horsey|August 31st, 2021|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events|Tags: Networking, Professional Development, SAVMA, volunteer appreciation|Comments Off

Tips for Meaningful Volunteer Appreciation

On Thursday, February 18, 2021, volunteer managers gathered together for a roundtable discussion on volunteer appreciation. As we approach volunteer appreciation week, here are the top tips on creating a meaningful thank you experience for your volunteers. Trinket/giveaway Ideas It’s very easy to rely on trinkets or small gifts as tokens of appreciation. Get creative and look offering for experiences by partnering with local organizations. [...]

By Sierra Horsey|March 12th, 2021|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples, Uncategorized|Tags: volunteer appreciation|Comments Off

Proposed SAVMA Bylaw Changes | 2020 Annual Meeting

By-Law Amendments to Be Presented to Members at the Annual Meeting After months of thoughtful discussion and review, the SAVMA Board of Directors is ready to introduce several key amendments to the association’s by-laws. These updates aim to strengthen leadership sustainability, increase transparency, expand access to leadership roles, and improve overall efficiency. They also ensure our by-laws stay aligned with Arizona state law. At the upcoming Annual Meeting, the [...]

By Tucson Foundations|December 8th, 2020|Categories: SAVMA Programs|Tags: annual meeting, bylaws|Comments Off

2021 Proposed Board of Directors Slate

The SAVMA Board of Directors is pleased to present your 2021 Leadership Team. Please be sure to register to attend the December 10th Annual Meeting and Mixer to vote on the following slate of officers and directors. Officers: President: Gina Hansen to remain unchanged President-Elect: Alexei Marquez to fill a vacancy Secretary: Heidi Urbina, to replace Jennifer Lohse Treasurer: Victoria Carlson, to replace Alexei Marquez Members at Large: Ken Briggs [...]

By Tucson Foundations|December 2nd, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

Future of Volunteering with Sarah Sladek: 11/19 Program

Future of Volunteering with Sarah Sladek November Program We hope you join us online this Thursday November 19, 2020 from 3:30 – 5:00pm MST for: The Future of Volunteering with Sarah Sladek: What Organizations Need to do NOW to Prepare. Volunteering did not die in this pandemic, but the era when volunteer organizations could just count on volunteers joining and serving in pre-pandemic roles has passed. Volunteer organizations need to [...]

By Tucson Foundations|November 16th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development|Comments Off

Board service…the next level of commitment to volunteerism!

Open Nominations Are Underway! Every person is right for leadership, every voice deserves to be heard and SAVMA Board of Directors is that Leadership Table. In less than 10 hours a month you can play a critical role in your own professional development and those of your peers. You can lead the way. Many hands make light work and with SAVMA in growth mode we need all hands on deck [...]

By Tucson Foundations|October 5th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off

Ask a Volunteer Manager – Stacy Oliver

Ask a Volunteer Manager: September Spotlight Stacy Oliver is the Volunteer Services Manager for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. Describe a memorable moment with volunteers. When the pandemic started in March, we didn’t have volunteers with us for several months because the National Guard stepped in, and we wanted to make sure volunteers were safe until we could put some more precautions in [...]

By Jessica Dennes|September 22nd, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off

Resilience: a Vital Tool for LoVs

Resilience: a Vital Tool for LoVs Nicole R. Smith, CVA, knows resilience is a vital tool for LoVs. What is it exactly? Why is it so important? How do you build it? In this candid talk we will examine how to navigate the hurdles that you may encounter during your volunteer manager (leader of volunteers) journey to build the resilience needed for both you and your volunteer program grow and [...]

By Tucson Foundations|September 7th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Tags: goals, Professional Development, tools|Comments Off

Nationally Renowned CVA, Gretchen Jordan to present a Members Only SAVMA Event 9/3!

Be Your Own Best Advocate: Top Ten Ways You Can Advocate for yourself, volunteers and programs Although we know how important our role, volunteers and an engaging program are, we will always need to advocate why that is important to staff, the community, and prospective volunteers. Often the volunteer department is 'taken for granted' or mistakenly assumed from that person's last volunteer experience. Can simple and everyday advocacy elevate the [...]

By Tucson Foundations|August 27th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Join the AL!VE Emerging Leaders Mentor Program- Applications Dues 9/4

Peer Mentors are the Answer! SAVMA Members have an Association Membership with AL!VE! So, if you are a member of SAVMA, you are also a member of AL!VE! and that includes the benefits of the: Emerging Leaders Mentor Program The Emerging Leaders Mentor Program is first designed to provide a platform for members to connect, and second designed to share best practices while positioning members as leaders in the field [...]

By Tucson Foundations|August 27th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Still time to register for August 20th Program on the #BlaxFridayProject

Join us Thursday, August 20th from 3:30-5PM for our next SAVMA Program! Register Now. Meet the entrepreneur who built an accessible list of locally Black Owned Businesses for the Tucson community. Find out how and why Ashley La Russa with a team of Black Business Owners and Creatives developed the #BlaxFriday Project with a website, app, and virtual event to spotlight Black Businesses. It’s a success story you won’t want to miss at this pivotal [...]

By Tucson Foundations|August 18th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

Ask a Volunteer Manager: Sierra Horsey

Q&A with Sierra Sierra Horsey is the Volunteer Program Coordinator at Reid Park Zoo. She helps manage the Zoo Crew, a group of teen volunteers who educate the public on resident animals and more! The Zoo Crew was named the Youth Volunteer Program of the Year for 2020 by SAVMA. Reid Park's Zoo Crew The Zoo Crew accepts their Youth Volunteer Program of the [...]

By Jessica Dennes|August 15th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development|Comments Off

Join Us May 21st for Presenter: Chris Elsner of Globally Good!

Join Us for a Zoom Program (3:30-5PM) on May 21st for: It doesn't have to be a pain: identifying ways to work more effectively with volunteers Description: What is the most challenging aspect of working with volunteers? What are the parts of your job which are most exhausting? What do you wish you could spend more time on? How do you effectively communicate the impact of your volunteers? In this [...]

By Tucson Foundations|May 5th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development|Comments Off

Resources for COVID-19 Response

Note: March 19th Meeting has been cancelled and the April Volunteer Fair has been postponed date TBD. The following information was sent out via email to SAVMA Members. Preparing Your Volunteer Program for COVID-19 From the Southern Arizona Volunteer Management Association While there are still many unknowns about COVID-19 and how it will affect our communities in Southern Arizona it is certain it already has. It is important to note [...]

By Jessica Dennes|March 17th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

February Program Cancelled- We still have much to share

We are sorry to say that due to unforeseen circumstances we are not holding our February program today on Golden, but will reschedule for a future date. We had so much good news to share, so we are sharing it here: Announcements for February 20, 2020 There is training news, and leadership news, new CCVA exam dates, upcoming events, more program announcement and you really going to want to see [...]

By Tucson Foundations|February 20th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

SAVMA Awards 2020 Keynote Sponsor Tucson Foundations brings Dana Litwin to Tucson 1/16!

Tucson Foundations is proud to provide underwriting support to bring to Tucson an expert in the profession of volunteerism, the former President of the Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement (AL!VE). Dana Litwin is a transformational coach, strategic advisor, and public speaker with a background in team building, environmental conservation and sustainability. Since 2002, Dana has guided organizations in the Bay Area, Silicon Valley, and nationwide to produce breakthrough volunteer [...]

By Tucson Foundations|January 4th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events|Comments Off

Are You Ready to Work That Conversation With Molly McCormick on November 21st?

Join us for our monthly program from 3:30-5PM at Habitat for Humanity on November 21st. Presentation: Work that Conversation! The Chemistry of Conversations "This talk introduces some tools of Conversational Intelligence®. So much of what we do and experience happens through conversations; from internal self-talk to external talk with family, work and friends. In this fun and interactive session, you will learn how to influence your conversations toward connection and [...]

By Tucson Foundations|November 1st, 2019|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off

May 17th-Working with Wildcats and What to Expect

Join Us on May 17th at Habitat for Humanity Overview: Alexei Marquez, Coordinate at the University of Arizona (ASUA) will present will review what VolunteerUA tells our students about engaging with community partners and what community partners can anticipate will occur when they have UA students working with them. Who: Alexei Marquez is a native Tucsonan and full-time Coordinator of Service for the Student Governance and Programs department at the University of [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|April 16th, 2018|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off

March 15th 3PM-5PM- Celebrate, Appreciate, & Thrive!

Please note the early time! Location is still Habitat for Humanity. A Brief Welcome from a Very Special Guest joining us all the way from Oregon: Gretchen Jordan, CVA Gretchen Jordan, CVA, is the AL!VE Association Manager. She will give a short presentation on what's happening on the national level on Volunteer Engagement issues and share her Top Ten Tips for Advocating for yourself, your professional development, and your program. As [...]

By Tucson Foundations|March 1st, 2018|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

January 18th Program- Tapping Into the Power of an Effective Volunteer

You won't want to miss this topic! Tapping Into the Power of an Effective Volunteer The most important audience to engage with as a non-profit are your true believers – your volunteers. Build and sustain a volunteer communications plan that will bolster internal and external goals. What you will walk away with: Gain an understanding of and the skills to construct, monitor and measure results from a volunteer communications plan. [...]

By Tucson Foundations|January 17th, 2018|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

VMHC Take the Leap: Embrace Change With SAVMA

Take the Leap With SAVMA at VMHC 2017 | Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference VMHC Take the Leap: Embrace Change With SAVMA The Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference (VMHC) brings together volunteer engagement professionals from around the world once again. The event blends global expertise with local collaboration, creating a hybrid experience unlike any other. This year’s theme—“Take the Leap: Embrace Change”—invites us to step forward with courage, creativity, and purpose. [...]

By Tucson Foundations|August 24th, 2017|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Tags: AL!VE, ALIVE, better impact, conference, Embrace Change, hybrid, Hybrid Conference, Professional Development, Southern Arizona, Take the Leap, VMHC, Volunteer Engagement, volunteer management|Comments Off

April 20th Storytelling for Impact with Ann Eve Dingell

Effectively capturing and sharing the stories of your volunteers, service recipients, organization history, etc., can make the difference between just plugging along and the ability to build strong, dynamic and passionate relationships to support your mission. Whether you are looking to build volunteer engagement, enhance your outreach to donors, build a creative stewardship program, or just make your case more effectively, this process marries evocative photography techniques with effective writing [...]

By Tucson Foundations|April 7th, 2017|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

We are Gearing Up for Volunteer Appreciation Week- Come Share Your Plans

Tell us how you plan to thank your volunteers! Come out to our March meeting to learn different ways to appreciate and recognize your volunteers, even on a shoestring budget! When: March 16, 2017 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm. Where: Habitat for Humanity 3501 North Mountain Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719. We will have a round table discussion to get those creative juices going! There will be a "best of display," so please bring [...]

By Tucson Foundations|March 8th, 2017|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

February 16th- Grow Your Volunteer Funding: Securing Grants to Help Your Cause

Join us for our engaging February program on growing your volunteer funding with grants. In today’s ever-competitive funding environment, nonprofits often seek grants to grow their revenue. Grants are just one of many ways to grow the funding you seek to support your mission. In this special workshop, tailored to volunteer program needs, we’ll talk about the way grant funding fits into your overall revenue plan, explore savvy ways to [...]

By SAVMA Leaders|February 10th, 2017|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

Reimagining the Future of Volunteer Engagement

AL!VE: Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement ***Reimagining the Future of Volunteer Engagement*** Webinar on Sept 13, sign up at SAVMA.org SAVMA has been selected to participate, you don't want to miss this excellent presentation, click here for more information and to see who else is participating from all over the USA http://www.volunteeralive.org/alve_better_impact_hybrid_c.php

By Tracy Sullivan|August 24th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

SAVMA PRESENTS: 1st Annual “Volunteer Tucson” Showcase.

Reach out to individuals, students, and families from ages 5-95 about your volunteer and internship needs on Thursday, Sept 29, 2016 from 5-8pm. Applications submitted by Thursday, September 1st will have organization name featured on the event flyer. Consider this your SAVE THE DATE: Event Date: Thursday, September 29, 2016 Time: 5pm-8pm Location: Trail Dust Town 6541 E. Tanque Verde Rd 85715 This year’s event will feature games, Trail Dust Town [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|August 17th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

Exciting professional development opportunities for volunteer managers right here in Tucson!

Exciting professional development opportunities for volunteer managers right here in Tucson! SAVMA has been chosen to become a host for a 1 day online conference for the Association for Leaders in Volunteer Engagement (AL!VE) the only national membership organization for those who manage volunteers. Register HERE There will be Four 90 minute presentations from dynamic, knowledgeable, and engaging trainers that will be live streamed to our group. Our Presenters: [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|August 17th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs, Uncategorized|Tags: Professional Development|Comments Off

Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference 2015

The First Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference 2015 When Innovation Met Volunteer Leadership (and Yes—All Men!) The volunteer engagement profession received a major boost last summer with the launch of the first Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference 2015 (VMHC), co-presented by Better Impact and AL!VE (Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement) debuted as a groundbreaking model for professional development. It promised a national learning experience without the airfare, hotel receipts, or endless [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|August 17th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Tags: VMHC 2015|Comments Off

Arizona Nonprofit Academy-Building Board Champions

By Tracy Sullivan|June 14th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development|Comments Off

CVA Study Group

CVA Study Group Make It Happen Now, LLC, (MIHN) offers a virtual CVA study group for qualified candidates that begins July 13th. Facilitated by the managing partners, CVAs themselves, the study groups help candidates learn from each other through weekly discussions. Over the last four years, participants have come from throughout the U.S. and Canada with experience in a variety of volunteer engagement settings. A whopping 100% of their participants state [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|June 14th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

NationBuilder free trial

NationBuilder allows you to send targeted text blasts to your supporters in the U.S. and Canada. To add to your texting capabilities, there are also apps and integrations available: Hustle allows you to send personalized one-to-one text messages as quickly as you can send a text blast (50 messages under 5 minutes). FrontlineSMS lets you create logic to dynamically respond to your supporters. CallHub extends your reach beyond the U.S. and [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|June 14th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off

Creative Volunteer Training Activities That Boost Interaction, Inspiration & Learning

Creative Volunteer Training Activities Join Founder and Chief Engagement Officer of VolPro, Tobi Johnson, for this one hour Beyond PowerPoint: Creative Volunteer Training Activities That Boost Interaction, Inspiration & Learning Are you tired of the same old training techniques? Need a boost to your volunteer training? If so, don't miss this upcoming webinar! Registration Details Monday, June 6, 10AM MST- 11AM MST Free for VolunteerPro members | Join VolunteerPro $59 for [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|May 26th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Tags: tobi johnson, training, volpro|Comments Off

The tricks to sharing social posts people care about

Good business has always been about building good relationships with customers, but far too often these days businesses ‘launch’ without any regard for the person that matters most to them. They design their logo and website, create their Instagram page, and just… launch. But they do it without any attempt to actually connect with the people they’re asking to follow them and buy from them. If you’re just launching on social, or [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|May 24th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off

Supervisor of Volunteers: for the Reluctant

Supervisor of Volunteers: for the Reluctant Join Tobi Johnson, CEO and Founder of VolunteerPro, for Supervisor of Volunteer for the Reluctant, also known as Reluctant Supervisor: How to Coach Volunteers and Feel Good About It! The webinar offered this Wednesday, May 25, 1:00PM - 2:00PM EST/10:00AM -11:00AM PST is a basic level course open to all new supervisors of volunteers. This should include anyone with less than six months of [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|May 24th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

June Meeting- New Time & Day, June 16th, 3:30-5pm

Note: NEW TIME & DAY of monthly meetings As of June 2016, the SAVMA monthly meetings will be on the 3rd Thursday of the month from 3:30-5:00 pm When: Thursday, June 16, 2016, from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm Where: Habitat For Humanity, 3501 N. Mountain Ave., Tucson 85719

By Tracy Sullivan|May 18th, 2016|Categories: SAVMA Programs, Uncategorized|Comments Off

Best Skills in Management Certificate

Best Skills in Nonprofit Management Certificate The Best Skills in Nonprofit Management Certificate program is a professional development program that will help build and increase capacity for small- to mid-size nonprofits or those who are transitioning to the nonprofit sector. All courses are led by industry leaders and nonprofit experts with years of nonprofit leadership experience and teaching expertise. Curriculum consists of 28 classroom hours, in total, with a certificate [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|May 16th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Count What Matters Webinar

Count What Matters Webinar Chief Engagement Officer, and Founder of Volunteer Pro, Tobi Johnson, has a few last minute slots to fill in TODAY's Count What Matters: How to Develop Smart Outcome Metrics for Volunteer Programs (Beyond Hours & Retention Rates) VolunteerPro webinar! Have you been wondering how to track the impact your organizations' volunteers? Register now. TODAY at 10:00am PST/1:00pm EST (60 minutes) starting in less than 2 hours, [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|May 10th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Overtime Law Changes Loom

Overtime Law Changes Loom The Department of Labor (DOL) proposed overtime law changes loom in the coming weeks. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires that nonexempt (hourly) employees receive overtime pay for hours worked over 40 per workweek at a rate not less than one and one-half times the regular rate of pay. The FLSA includes exemptions from these minimum wage and overtime requirements for employees who meet certain [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|May 4th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples|Tags: salary and compensation|Comments Off

Points of Light Conference 2016 | Why Volunteer Managers Should Attend

Points of Light Conference 2016 | Why Volunteer Program Managers Should Attend A New Era for Volunteer Management Volunteer program management is changing. Across the nation, communities are redefining how service connects people to purpose. In this new era, Volunteer Engagement Professionals (VEPs) aren’t just coordinators — they are strategists, educators, and advocates for civic participation. For those of us in Southern Arizona, attending the Points of Light Annual [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|April 27th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Tags: Nonprofit Leadership, Points of Light, Professional Development, Service Unites, Volunteer Engagement, volunteer management|Comments Off

Ways to Appreciate Volunteers and Strengthen Teamwork | SAVMA

“Be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody!” That simple phrase, shared by Alcira Pastula and Linda Tailleart from Catholic Charities Community Services AZ, captures the heart of effective volunteer appreciation. Recognition is more than a “thank you.” It’s how we show people that their time, energy, and heart truly matter. Why Appreciation Matters Recognition has the largest positive effect on volunteer retention of any volunteer management practice. [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|April 21st, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Tags: Happiness Effect, Recognition, SAVMA, Teamwork, volunteer appreciation, volunteer management, Volunteer Retention|Comments Off

Board Issues? Try Nonprofit Board Boot Camp!

Nonprofit Board Boot Camp Be the best Board Member you can be, with Nonprofit Board Boot Camp. Learn about board governance, get the facts on financial issues and understand the different between fundraising and development. During this fast-paced half day boot camp you will learn about S.O.X. and how to keep yourself protected from making illegal actions. With lots of tools, speakers and exercises, you will leave this workshop better [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|April 13th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Tags: governance|Comments Off

Inside Out Program Evaluation

Inside Out Program Evaluation If you are ready to take your program to the next level, then this webinar is for you. Inside Out Program Evaluation or is it Program Evaluations from the Inside Out? Either way the Chief Engagement Officer herself, Tobi Johnson, teaches you how to conduct a do it yourself (DIY) Volunteer Program audit in this webinar. Details Registration Link: VolPro Tuesday, April 12, 2016 1:00PM - [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|April 11th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Nominate a Volunteer for a Daily Point of Light Award

Nominate for a Daily Point of Light Award Southern Arizona recognition at the national level means VEPs can nomination for a daily Point of Light Award during National Volunteer Week. During this week in particular we celebrate the power of volunteers to make a difference, and recognize extraordinary individuals who are at the center of social change. Nominate an extraordinary volunteer in your community for a Daily Point of Light [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|April 11th, 2016|Categories: Member Stories, Uncategorized, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Tags: #VolunteerAwards, Awards, nationalvolunteerweek, pointsoflight|Comments Off

Coaching for Engagement

ADT is offering Coaching for Engagement Coaching for Engagement is being offered by ADT, a member of the BBB (SAVMA Member) and they have invited us to join, at a reasonable cost of course. BBB conference room 5151 E Broadway Blvd #100, Tucson, AZ 85711 Date: 04/28/2016 9:00 AM UTC-07:00 Ar your employees engaged? Are your motivation techniques getting little results? There are 3 key reasons why employees become disengaged. [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|April 8th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development|Comments Off

Nominations Extended for Congressional Award

Nominations Extended for Congressional Award Great news! Congresswoman Martha McSally’s office announced deadlines for nominations extended for the Congressional Award. You can nominate a firefighter, EMT, or member of law enforcement you know by filling out a nomination form and returning it to our office. Southern Arizona's first responders put their lives on the line every day to serve our community. Now, it’s our turn to recognize them! Additional information [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|April 8th, 2016|Categories: VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

This is Your Raise Establishing Your Value In the Marketplace

How do you determine your ‘true’ value in the marketplace? Join Don Zavis, National Sales Trainer, International Keynote Speaker and an Award-Winning Sales Coach as he shares with us the tips, skills and techniques on how to have your true value “come shining thru.” Remember this is your raise, establishing your value in the marketplace is in your best interest. Upcoming event information: Location: Encantada apartments--theater--11177 N. Oracle Road, Oro [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|April 8th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

Wild Apricot: Membership Online Summit

Wild Apricot: Membership Summit March Update: It's Time for the Summit By Dmitry Buterin, Chief Apricot Next Monday kicks off our biggest webinar event ever, the Wild Apricot Membership Summit. I'm excited to see the impact it's going to have on the nonprofit sector. If you haven't signed up yet, there's still time! From the product side of things, we're updating our Mobile App, launching some new email themes, and our Chief Architect shares [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|April 1st, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples|Comments Off

Best Skills in Nonprofit Management Certificate Again

Best Skills in Nonprofit Management Certificate Again Strategic Partner Nonprofit Certificate Nonprofit Management Institute is offering courses in Tucson starting April 1st. The courses are part of the "Best Skills in Nonprofit Management Certificate" again being offered and include courses focused on volunteer management, social media, and governance. Courses will be held roughly once a month April through October at Habitat for Humanity on Friday mornings. Classes are taught by experienced [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|March 29th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Partner Opportunity: Points of Light

Partner Opportunity: Points of Light Nominate a Volunteer for the Cabot Community Celebrity Award This is a Partner Opportunity from Points of Light. Do you know of an outstanding volunteer? Nominate them for the Cabot Community Celebrity Award. Cabot Creamery Cooperative will honor the winning celebrities with an 8 day / 7 night Alaskan Cruise, with stops in beautiful Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway as well as Victoria, British Columbia. Since [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|March 28th, 2016|Categories: VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Ways to Appreciate Volunteers and Work in Teams

Ways to Appreciate Volunteers and Work in Teams Linda Taileart and Alcira Pastula are inviting Volunteer Engagement Professionals of Southern Arizona to join them for a two hour, hands on workshop on Ways to Appreciate Volunteers and Work in Teams. Attendees will develop strategies to build recognition, appreciation and teamwork into volunteer programming. Volunteers with Catholic Charities exapand the reach of the agency to help more vulnerable people in central [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|March 28th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off

Help Shape the Future of Volunteerism

Help Shape the Future of Volunteerism Early bird registration is officially open. The Points of Light 2016 Conference on Volunteering and Service will take place June 27 – 29 at the Cobo Center in Detroit, Michigan. As the world’s largest service-related convening of nonprofit, government, business and civic leaders. This Conference is the greatest annual opportunity for thousands from around the world to help shape the future of volunteerism. Attendees [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|March 14th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

Save the Dates 2016

Save the Dates 2016 The calendar is packed, so save the dates 2016 for cannot miss programs, events, and activities. SAVMA is bringing its best. National Volunteer Appreciation Week April, 10th-April 16, 2016 Effective Communication Wednesday, April 20, 2016 How not to take your interactions with other personally Six Secrets of High Impact Presenting Wednesday, May 18, 2016 Learn how to create and deliver high impact presentations/training's Round Table Discussion Wednesday, June 15, [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|March 8th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off

High Impact Presenting

The Six Secrets of High Impact Presenting High Impact Presenting: Learn How to Transform your Workshops and Presentations The purpose of this workshop is to share Six Secrets high impact presenting to increase engagement during presentations and training activities. These are quick and easy ways to deliver information in more effective ways. When they are combined with tools designed to help people reflect and apply what they’ve learned, there is [...]

By Tracy Sullivan|March 8th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off