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.

SAVMA 2025 Leadership Now Recruiting

SAVMA 2025 Leadership: apply by 10/20 SAVMA 2025 leadership on your mind? Never been on a board before? That's ok, a professional association is a great organization to start. You can start in any position and catch on quickly due to the size of the organization and the support you have from the prior year's boards. This process is called institutionalization. What is means is there are lots of materials available to you so you won't be "reinventing the wheel." So you might have questions about serving in a leadership position, like why do you keep saying leadership instead of board member? We say leadership because you might end up serving on a committee, or chairing an event, but not serving on the board. All of those volunteers will still be a part of the SAVMA 2025 leadership team. Here are some more Frequently Asked Questions! SAVMA 2025 Leadership Process [...]

By |August 17th, 2024|Categories: Connect with Your Peers, Learning and Development, Member Share|Tags: , , |Comments Off on SAVMA 2025 Leadership Now Recruiting
  • Volunteer Engagement Defined and Measured

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 Volunteerism The prevailing definition of "volunteer" in the United States, comes from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) at the U.S. Department of Labor. Volunteer: An individual who performs hours of service for a public agency for civic, charitable, or humanitarian reasons, without promise, expectation, or receipt of compensation for services rendered, is considered to be a volunteer during such hours. "To understand how the economy is functioning and changing over time requires measuring and valuing all productive unpriced labor [...]

By |June 3rd, 2024|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples, SAVMA Programs|Tags: , |Comments Off on Volunteer Engagement Defined and Measured
  • Forget the Elevator Pitch - a picture of elevator doors with a quote over it.

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 an elevator. I am joined by a billionaire who seeing my name tag says, "I see you are with XYZ nonprofit, tell me about it." Nothing short of an Oscar worthy performance occurs in that 30 second elevator ride. Did I convince my companion to pull out his checkbook before the end of the ride? Even with a fresh take on the concept...swap elevator to Starbucks line, and checkbook to Zelle...it still isn't working for us. Partly because what we [...]

By |May 3rd, 2024|Categories: Connect with Your Peers, Learning and Development|Comments Off on Forget the Elevator Pitch
  • Partners Call to Action

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 Arizona to engage AmeriCorps members in evidence-based or evidence-informed interventions/practices that extend organizational capacity to address critical community needs in one of six AmeriCorps focus areas: disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and services for veterans and military families. Organizations awarded AmeriCorps funding will be responsible for the recruitment, training, supervision, and management of AmeriCorps members. We suggest you collaborate with fund development and HR to divide the work. Do not leave funding on the table>>>>> Call [...]

By |February 7th, 2024|Categories: VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Partners: Call to Action
  • Keynote Nicole R Smith

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. She performed for audiences nationwide, while simultaneously using dance to teach teamwork to kids in after school programs.  Nicole's experience in sports entertainment, radio, TV, the performing arts and social services spans nearly 20 years covering the Chicago, Houston, Ft. Lauderdale/Miami and Orlando markets. She danced and cheered for four Professional and Semi-Professional sports teams. Undeniably, these experiences gave her a knack for workforce development. It wasn't long before she had prepared more than 800 interns to enter the workforce [...]

By |January 2nd, 2024|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Tags: , |Comments Off on Keynote Nicole R Smith
  • Introducing AmeriCorps Member Lillian hiking in the Gila Wilderness, AZ

Introducing AmeriCorps Member Lillian

Introducing AmeriCorps Member Lillian Through a partnership with Arizona Serve, SAVMA leadership is introducing AmeriCorps member Lillian Ledner to our members. Lillian was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, where she attended Mountain View High School, and graduated in 2008. She attends Pima Community College, and proudly is an 8- year Crew Member at Trader Joes. Markedly, inspired by a volunteer experience through the Jett Foundation at Camp Promise, Lillian committed to pursuing a career in Occupational Therapy. In her free time, she teaches West Coast Swing dancing. Her adventurous love of the outdoors includes activities like hiking, camping, fishing, jumping out of planes, and trying any new activity or opportunity. She enjoys meeting new people and helping others find their passions, consequently making her well suited for volunteer engagement work (noted Gina Hansen in the interview). Arizona Serve, a program of Prescott College, places AmeriCorps members with local organizations to [...]

By |December 26th, 2023|Categories: Member Share, Member Stories, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Introducing AmeriCorps Member Lillian
  • Career Growth Through Professional Associations

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 8-10 hours per week networking in a professional setting. Dr. Misner, shared at length his experience and his research on professional networks in the BNI Podcast, Episode 528: How Many Networks, How Many Hours?  Networking is part of Professional Development Harvard Business Review, LinkedIn, Indeed, and Google all agree that networking and professional development time should be between 5-10 hours per week. Some of this time is dedicated to "knowledge acquisition" and some of this time is dedicated to "skills [...]

By |December 9th, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development|Tags: |Comments Off on Career Growth Through Professional Associations
  • National Volunteer Management Insights Survey

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. Why Participate? This survey serves as a pulse check for the field of volunteerism by providing a nuanced view of challenges, trends, and opportunities. By taking a few minutes to complete the survey, you contribute to a collective intelligence that guides our industry's evolution. Survey Link: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/OqCzf5 Survey Deadline: Friday, January 1, 2024 @5pm EST Your Data Matters: Rest assured, your responses are confidential and anonymous. The aggregated data will be utilized to generate an industry report, providing a comprehensive [...]

By |December 1st, 2023|Categories: Member Feedback, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on National Volunteer Management Insights Survey
  • willing and able survey

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 to leadership and remove them. Willingness Members might be very willing to serve, but completely lack the ability. This could be the case, but we cannot guess. Tell us! That is all we are asking. Take two minutes and tell us you are willing, but not able. Perhaps you are not willing, because you do not like the current leadership. That is ok too. Be honest, the survey is anonymous. Maybe you even think SAVMA is a waste of time. [...]

By |October 26th, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, Member Feedback|Comments Off on 4 minute- willing and able survey!
  • 5 Must-Dos for Every C-Suite Leader

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 breakneck pace has become the volunteer management way. Volunteer management professionals continue to operate at emergency levels of activity with no end in site. Below are a few must-do actions to take right now to show your support and to help ease the burden. C-Suite Must Dos Right Now Discuss SAVMA Leadership positions with your volunteer engagement staff and why you support their 2024 participation. Without your support of their professional development they will not be able to prioritize this. [...]

By |October 2nd, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on C-Suite Must-Dos for your Volunteer Program
  • Level up your leadership! SAVMA leadership positions are open for 2024

SAVMA 2024 Leadership – Raise Your Professional Game!

SAVMA 2024 Leadership: apply by 9/30 SAVMA 2024 leadership on your mind? Never been on a board before? That's ok, a professional association is a great organization to start. You can start in any position and catch on quickly due to the size of the organization and the support you have from the prior year's boards. This process is called institutionalization. What is means is there are lots of materials available to you so you won't be "reinventing the wheel." So you might have questions about serving in a leadership position, like why do you keep saying leadership instead of board member? We say leadership because you might end up serving on a committee, or chairing an event, but not serving on the board. All of those volunteers will still be a part of the SAVMA 2024 leadership team. Here are some more Frequently Asked Questions! SAVMA 2024 Leadership Process [...]

By |September 2nd, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, Member Share|Comments Off on SAVMA 2024 Leadership – Raise Your Professional Game!
  • SAVMA Member Benefit Alert!

September AL!VE Academy: Volunteer Recruitment Is No Answer

SAVMA Member Benefit Alert! "Volunteer recruitment is no answer" is presented by AL!VE through their Academy series. SAVMA is an Association Member of AL!VE and SAVMA members are able to attend Academy sessions as a Membership Benefit. Please be sure your SAVMA account is in good standing and your name is listed as a contact on the account to register. Presented by Rob Jackson September 20, 7AM MST Everyone knows recruitment can be tricky now, post lockdowns etc.. But the answer isn’t simply trying harder to recruit. We need better, more flexible, opportunities that fit with people’s interests, motivations and availabilities. We need a culture in our organizations that welcomes and nurtures the potential of volunteers, not one that seems them as being nice but not essential. This isn’t just down to the Volunteer Engagement Professional - everyone needs to embrace it. In short we need to see change in [...]

By |August 12th, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, Member Share|Comments Off on September AL!VE Academy: Volunteer Recruitment Is No Answer

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 seek to examine what leads individuals to enter the volunteer administration profession and their subsequent professional development experiences in the field. The goal of this research study is to improve our understanding of the volunteer administration profession through an exploration of the perspectives of volunteer administrators. From the desk of Dr. Allison Russell Dear SAVMA Members! We want to learn directly from volunteer administrators through in-depth virtual interviews, and we are hoping that you will consider participating. During the interview, [...]

By |July 21st, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, Member Feedback|Comments Off on Research study on Volunteer Administrators- Participants Needed
  • volunteer administrator skills assessment

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 a roadmap of progression.  SAVMA Members we need your participation in the career pathways for volunteer engagement professionals survey.   We hope to use this data as validated evidence for the job of the volunteer engagement professional to be officially recognized by the Department of Labor (DOL) in the Occupational Outlook Handbook https://www.bls.gov/ooh/. When DOL conducts its next revision to the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), we intend to heavily advocate for the addition of this role! This means, [...]

By |April 11th, 2023|Categories: Member Feedback, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Career Pathways for Volunteer Engagement Professionals Survey
  • Rob Jackson is Director of Rob Jackson Consulting Ltd

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 of Rob Jackson Consulting Ltd. His consultancy and training company engages and inspires people to bring about change. He has almost 30 years experience working in the voluntary and community sector. Holding a variety of strategic development and senior management roles he focused on leading and engaging volunteers. Since 2011, Rob has worked with a wide range of clients in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, the USA and Canada. He is co-author of The Complete Volunteer Management Handbook (DSC, [...]

By |April 10th, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on AL!VE Conference- SAVMA Saves the Date

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 reports about how best to engage and manage volunteers. Service Enterprise Initiative recommended for these Key Benefits Access to a research-based program which according to research by the TCC Group will transform your organization into one of the top 11% of nonprofits in volunteer management and organizational performance. A diagnostic evaluation of current volunteer engagement practices with customized recommendations for improvement. 16 hours of training focused on change-management and volunteer engagement strategies and best practices. 15-20 hours of individualized coaching and the support of a [...]

By |March 21st, 2023|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Service Enterprise Initiative Recommended
  • 2023 Proposed Leadership

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 interest to SAVMA email. A simple majority of members present may vote on the slate. Members may submit a proxy no less than 24 hours before the election. Officers Jennifer Lohse (President): Jennifer has served in the nonprofit sector for more than 25 years in a variety of leadership and executive roles. She holds a Certified Nonprofit Professional credential from the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance (formerly American Humanics). As the Vice President and External Relations of the "Tucson Foundations," she works [...]

By |February 4th, 2023|Categories: SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on 2023 Proposed Leadership

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 |September 1st, 2022|Categories: SAVMA Events, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Join Us for The Annual AL!VE Conference October 18th 9:30am-5:00pm
  • Volunteer Appreciation Ideas for National Volunteer Week Appreciation 2022

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 retain them—and even attract new ones.  How does volunteer appreciation benefit you, your volunteers, and your organization? Volunteer appreciation increases morale. Even a simple "thank you" or "good job" from a supervisor can go a long way in making a person feel confident and proud in their job, as can more significant rewards. That confidence and pride can help make an even better volunteer. Volunteer appreciation enables you to keep good help and attract more. Recognition encourages the best people [...]

By |April 18th, 2022|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples|Comments Off on Volunteer Appreciation Ideas
  • Tips for Navigating Holiday Volunteers

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 Staff  Single-day volunteers are likely full of questions and it can be a barrier if only the Volunteer Manager knows the answers. Prepare the staff with a document about the volunteer positions and some general FAQ questions and answers about the volunteer event. Chances are, people will also call your organization to learn more, so prep your front-office staff as much as possible!  Be Clear in your Expectations Single-day volunteers may not be familiar with your organization or the event, [...]

By |December 15th, 2021|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples|Tags: , , , |Comments Off on Tips for Navigating Holiday Volunteers
  • 2021 Hybrid Conference Banner

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 level as well. Who should attend? Anyone at an organization is invited to attend, not just those who work with volunteers. We believe these conversations are important for the entire staff. Individuals and students are also welcome! Costs: SAVMA Members: $20 Students (Non-members): $25 Non-Members: $40 Individual Conference Registration  + SAVMA Membership Discount: $60 Register today.  https://bit.ly/SAVMAHybrid2021 Learn More about the conference and each speaker: https://www.betterimpact.tv/vmhc/

By |October 7th, 2021|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Join SAVMA’s Host Site for the AL!VE Hybrid Conference
  • SAVMA Volunteer Fair

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 family-friendly night and enjoy music, raffle prizes, and more. Furthermore, guests can learn about ways to support their community. What organizations will be there? Representatives from local nonprofit organizations will introduce potential volunteers to their important causes.  These organizations include: Interfaith Community Services Big Brothers Big Sisters Easterseals Blake Foundation CASA of Pima County Literacy Connects Youth on their Own Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest And more! What is the cost? Thank you to TMC Foundation and United Way [...]

By |August 31st, 2021|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events|Tags: , , , |Comments Off on SOUTHERN ARIZONA VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT AND CELEBRATION FAIR

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. A ticket swap allows volunteers to create memories while opening the door to future partnerships. Creating experiences is not always be feasible, especially in the time of COVID-19, so look for items to give away that have meaning. At the Reid Park Zoo, volunteers receive lapel pins in the shape of different animals to recognize their hours of service. Other items to consider are things that can be used while volunteering --branded hats, jackets, sun sleeves, etc. Event Ideas When [...]

By |March 12th, 2021|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples, Uncategorized|Tags: |Comments Off on Tips for Meaningful Volunteer Appreciation 

Proposed By-law changes to be introduced at the Annual Meeting

By-Laws Amendments to be put before the Association After months of discussion and review the Board of Directors has made several substantive amendments to the by-laws. Each of these amendments have been made to improve the sustainability of the leadership, increase transparency and accessibility to leadership roles, streamline the processes and to remove sections in conflict with state law. It is with these efforts in mind that the Board of Directors shall submit a motion to the membership at the Annual Meeting  “To accept the Amended and Restated By-laws as presented.” The redlined version of the document may be reviewed in its entirety here (2020 SAVMA Redlined By-laws for General Membership). Sustained Leadership Efforts Changing from a Vice President to a President Elect. The role of a President Elect will be to spend a year preparing for the role of Presidency. This additional leadership preparation time with the known expectation [...]

By |December 8th, 2020|Categories: SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on Proposed By-law changes to be introduced at the Annual Meeting

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 Meredith Bode Jessica Dennes Mary Leyva Angie McBride Alex Swain Read about Our Upcoming 2021 Proposed Leadership! Officers Gina Hansen (President): Gina Hansen is the Volunteer Resource Manager at Habitat for Humanity Tucson. She has over 10 years’ experience in all aspects of volunteer engagement overseeing various volunteer programs, implementing new programs, outreach, event planning, public speaking, and training. Gina is a Service Enterprise Trainer, active on two nonprofit boards, has a small crafting business aka side hustle, and when [...]

By |December 2nd, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on 2021 Proposed Board of Directors Slate

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 embrace change and innovate if they are to survive. They need to remain relevant and competitive so they can thrive in this era of disruption. Sarah Sladek, CEO, Sarah Sladek & Companies, LLC, XYZ University & Membership University, has developed a proven methodology on how to do volunteerism in the 21st century, effectively equipping volunteer organizations with the insights and tools they need to successfully grow volunteerism in this changing marketplace while providing guidance and a succession plan to future-proof any [...]

By |November 16th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development|Comments Off on Future of Volunteering with Sarah Sladek: 11/19 Program

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 to meet our ambitious goals. Step forward by emailing SAVMATucson@gmail.com to self nominate. Officers President Presides at and leads general membership and board meetings Aids committee members in generating new ideas or finding solutions for challenges Serves as ex-officio on all committees President- Elect Presides in the absence of the President Provides succession planning support Serves as ex-officio on all committees as needed Secretary Creates, authenticates, and preserves minutes and other corporate documentation. Manages and certifies the validity of proxies [...]

By |October 5th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off on Board service…the next level of commitment to volunteerism!

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 place and figure out how we were going to distribute food to our community safely and in the summer heat. When Guard support was altered suddenly, we NEEDED volunteers to continue providing support to families who were hungry, and had to scramble fast (which doesn’t always feel good!). I reached out to long-term volunteers who I thought might want to come help, and EVERY phone call I made was to a person who was genuinely thrilled to hear from me [...]

By |September 22nd, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off on Ask a Volunteer Manager – Stacy Oliver

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 flourish. Join SAVMA and Nicole for the September 17, 2020 program, Resilience: a vital Tool for LoVs. Learning Objectives for the Program Setting small attainable goals Finding Your Voice Obtaining Institutional Buy In Building a Strong Support System Overcoming the urge to give up Presenter Biography Nicole Smith is a Panamanian-American, single mother, workforce development specialist, dancer, motivational speaker and published author of many inspirational journals including 101 Affirmations for Volunteer Administrators, Non-Profit Professionals and Professional Women (available for sale [...]

By |September 7th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Tags: , , |Comments Off on Resilience: a Vital Tool for LoVs

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 stature of your volunteer department and agency's impact?  How can you practically and consistently craft messages and tactics that help promote a dynamic and engaging program that everyone should be a part of?  Are you able to speak up and out for your professional development and value at your agency?  We will examine answers to these questions.   Learning objectives: Learn the importance of advocacy and ways to make it second nature Craft a story or message that is compelling [...]

By |August 27th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Nationally Renowned CVA, Gretchen Jordan to present a Members Only SAVMA Event 9/3!

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 through ongoing professional development and skills building. Participants will be paired with AL!VE Mentors to receive individualized coaching and support. In addition, there will be monthly peer sessions pertaining to leadership development topics. For more information about the program, commitments, requirements, and timeline, please review this following FAQ link: AL!VE Emerging Leaders Mentor Program FAQ.  Applications are open now through September 4th.  Apply to become a mentee here.

By |August 27th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Join the AL!VE Emerging Leaders Mentor Program- Applications Dues 9/4

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 time in history! The #BlaxFriday Project provides Tucson with a positive step forward towards recognizing the true value of our local Black Businesses and how, against all odds, they seek equity through economic empowerment. Find Black Owned Businesses in Tucson at www.BlaxFriday.com or Download Blax Friday from the App Store. Find out how the project was created and grew so quickly Examine the goals and how they are being accomplished Discover the value of dialogues through volunteers, virtual events and community outreach Ashley La [...]

By |August 18th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on Still time to register for August 20th Program on the #BlaxFridayProject

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 Year Award at the 2020 SAVMA Awards Volunteer Appreciation breakfast. The Zoo Crew youth volunteers. Ask a Volunteer Manager Series To be featured in this series, email SavmaTucson@gmail.com with your request. We would love to hear from you! How did you get started in this field? I fell into volunteer management by accident. I had previous experience as an informal educator and was applying for jobs my senior year of college when my plans [...]

By |August 15th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development|Comments Off on Ask a Volunteer Manager: Sierra Horsey

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 presentation, we'll help you identify the aspects of working with volunteers which are causing you the most pain and discuss what systems or processes could be improved to help minimize that pain.   Learning Objectives: Globally Good's goal is to provide volunteer managers and nonprofits with tools to make working with volunteers easier and more efficient so more time can be spent on engagement, retention, and recognition." Members will be asked to critically analyze how they currently work with volunteers [...]

By |May 5th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development|Comments Off on Join Us May 21st for Presenter: Chris Elsner of Globally Good!

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 that our volunteer communities are already being impacted and we want to be sure you know where to get resources. Find out if your organization has a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) and if it currently aligns with the guidance being issued from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Become familiar with the plan and how volunteers are engaged throughout this plan. If volunteers are not included, find and why and advocate for their inclusion where appropriate. Following [...]

By |March 17th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on Resources for COVID-19 Response

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 it all! We apologize for the inconvenience and will see you in March!

By |February 20th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on February Program Cancelled- We still have much to share

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 and community engagement programs, as well as board and advisory committee development. Drawing upon 20+ years in improv theater, Dana delivers innovative, humorous and engaging keynote addresses and seminars, in addition to customized training, educational materials and multi-media presentations. SAVMA is excited to have Dana Litman join us in 2020 not only as our Keynote speaker, but she will also offer a workshop on How to Inspire, Fire, or Move Challenging Volunteers immediately following the recognition event, a separate ticket [...]

By |January 4th, 2020|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events|Comments Off on SAVMA Awards 2020 Keynote Sponsor Tucson Foundations brings Dana Litwin to Tucson 1/16!

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 trust. If you are wanting to build healthy, thriving relationships, teams and organizations, Conversational Intelligence® (C-IQ) give us insight into how our brain responds during conversations, and how conversations activate our trust and distrust networks in our brain. Conversations either open us up or close us down. Learning about C-IQ gives us new conversational skills and insights about the hormones, Cortisol and Oxytocin which activate our ability in how we respond, interact and influence others. You will experience simple shifts [...]

By |November 1st, 2019|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off on Are You Ready to Work That Conversation With Molly McCormick on November 21st?

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 Arizona. She has a BA in Secondary English Education with a minor in Spanish and a MA in Language, Reading, and Culture from the UA. Currently, she is a Doctoral Student in the Educational Leadership and Policy program at the UA College of Education. A soon to be mother of three, Alexei also serves on the UA Hispanic Alumni Board, as a faculty advisor for Sigma Lambda Gamma Sorority Inc. and is part of the SAVMA Board.

By |April 16th, 2018|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off on May 17th-Working with Wildcats and What to Expect

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 you all know SAVMA is a member of AL!VE which is the only national professional organization for those who manage or lead volunteers. This Super Special visit from AL!VE is not something you will want to miss.   Stop Doing the Same Old Thing for Recognition! Recognition is the single greatest missed opportunity by most volunteer managers. If you're still doing the same event or giving a tchotchke as the way to recognize your volunteers, you're are missing the chance to [...]

By |March 1st, 2018|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on March 15th 3PM-5PM- Celebrate, Appreciate, & Thrive!

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.  This requires a unique combination of professional PR tactics and community building.  Along with learning how to combine these elements, you’ll also learn how to determine the specific, measurable results you want and which will support your choice of strategic tools. SAVMA's Monthly Meeting will take place THIS  Thursday on January 18th, 2018 At Habitat for Humanity 3501 North Mountain Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719. From 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm.  You won't want to miss this topic! Tapping Into the [...]

By |January 17th, 2018|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on January 18th Program- Tapping Into the Power of an Effective Volunteer

Registration is Open- ALIVE Hybrid Conference 10/24/2017

SPACE IS LIMITED Register Now!!!!! Hosted by Dana Cory Litwin, CVA Session Topics & Speakers: Barbara Harrington, Sponsorships Plus : Overcoming the Challenges in Change Carol Dixon, Providence Health Care:  Navigating Organizational Change Andy Fryar, OzVPM: Change in Your Professional Career Erin Spink:  The Pending Changes in Society This hybrid conference will be hosted by SAVMA locally while live streaming the presenters. SAVMA Member, Sven Olson of Agape Hospice will facilitate local engagement and will give his famous presentation on Self Care for Mortals. AL!VE will be coordinating the speakers, handouts and content. Register Now!!!!!  

By |August 24th, 2017|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events|Tags: , , , |Comments Off on Registration is Open- ALIVE Hybrid Conference 10/24/2017

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 to create a compelling narrative to enhance your organization. Join Ann Eve Dingell as she shares her tips and tricks as a professional photographer and fundraiser to share your stories. She has more than 20+ years in fundraising strategy and organizational development, having built successful fundraising programs for Arizona Public Media, The National Institute for Civil Discourse, the American Red Cross, and other organizations around the country. She has worked across all development channels including major gifts, planned giving, annual fund, membership and [...]

By |April 7th, 2017|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on April 20th Storytelling for Impact with Ann Eve Dingell

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 an item to share, we may even have a prize for the audience favorite. Get your ideas in early and we will include it in the rolling slide show. Send us photos of your favorite recognition and appreciation items so we can show them off. Please send your pictures to savmatucson@gmail.com by March 13th. Things to include are: Appreciation gift Ideas (low or no cost) Grants for donations Restaurants or food stores that donate food items or drinks Party locations [...]

By |March 8th, 2017|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on We are Gearing Up for Volunteer Appreciation Week- Come Share Your Plans

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 prospect for new funders, and discuss ways to position your volunteer activities to best justify your grant requests. We’ll break into small groups and have plenty of time for Q&A.

By |February 10th, 2017|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on February 16th- Grow Your Volunteer Funding: Securing Grants to Help Your Cause

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 |August 24th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on Reimagining the Future of Volunteer Engagement

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 attractions, restaurants, local entertainment provided by the “Jovert” Steel Drum Band and DJ Dre with Haymore Productions and of course local nonprofits and community partners. For more information or to receive the application: Contact: Gina Hansen 520.904.401 or savmatucson@gmail.com Juliet Yardy 520.808.4023 or jyardy@bgctucson.org

By |August 17th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on SAVMA PRESENTS: 1st Annual “Volunteer Tucson” Showcase.

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: Rob Jackson – Rob  Jackson Consulting Limited – www.robjacksonconsulting.com How to Develop as a Volunteer Manager                What do you want from a career in working with volunteers? Do you even see volunteer management as a career or just a step towards something else? How can you take control of your professional development? Drawing on his own personal career journey, Rob will help you focus on how you can develop as a volunteer manager and what options are available to you to [...]

By |August 17th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs, Uncategorized|Tags: |Comments Off on Exciting professional development opportunities for volunteer managers right here in Tucson!

2016 Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference

This exciting opportunity for all Southern Arizona Volunteer Engagement Professionals to participate in the national 2016 Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference. SAVMA has been chosen to participate in the 2016 Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference on behalf of ALIVE. This one-day seminar is annually sponsored by the Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement (AL!VE) and Better Impact. Local associations are invited to host the streaming conference, and SAVMA received the invitation to participate. It will include industry experts. Please join us for this exciting opportunity to learn from industry leaders in volunteer management. Four great presenters!! RSVP by Sept 5, 2016  Registration has closed!

By |August 17th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on 2016 Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference

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 they would recommend the study group to their colleagues or friends. CVA Study Groups Benefit Those with test anxiety Volunteer administrators with experience in limited settings or organizations Individuals with no access to local study groups Those with little or no exam experience in recent years, and/or Those who want to best prepare themselves for the exam. The MIHN CVA Study Group helps candidates pace themselves as they study the CCVA recommended texts and keeps them focused on their goal [...]

By |June 14th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on CVA Study Group

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 Canada. Check out the list of 200+ countries where CallHub is offered. When using apps and integrations with NationBuilder, the data you generate flows back into your nation, increasing your ability to build relationships with your supporters. Thanks for using NationBuilder. Ben Handzo VP of Product http://nationbuilder.com/ Start your free trial

By |June 14th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off on NationBuilder free trial

What are your AZ Summit needs?

What are your AZ Summit needs Volunteer Management Professionals what are your AZ Summit needs for the upcoming 2016 Summit on Volunteerism and Civic Service.  As a member of the event and planning committee in partnership with the Governor's Office of Youth, Faith, and Family, I am interested in learning more about what courses, training, or workshops Experienced Volunteer Managers are interested in attending at this fall's AZ Summit on Volunteerism and Civic Service. Please take a few moments to complete a very brief survey HERE. It takes less than 5 minutes! We are specifically seeking individuals with more than 10 years or more of experience and 3-10 years of experience. These categories of experience should lend themselves to experienced and mastery level within the profession. Participating in the survey should provide inspiration from those in the experienced category enough to inspire the mastery level professionals to put together exceptional workshops [...]

By |June 13th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Member Feedback, Member Share|Tags: , , |Comments Off on What are your AZ Summit needs?
  • Creative Volunteer Training Activities-Tobi Johnson

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 non members | Register Here Can't make it live? Each registrant will get a recording of the webinar, the presentation slides, and the handouts at least 24 hours after the training. Presenter Details The Volunteer Engagement Professional community worldwide holds Tobi Johnson as an expert and master trainer in volunteer engagement. Known for modern thought leadership, highly practical evidence-based strategies, and innovative, “big hat” thinking around engaging, supporting, and acknowledging the work of volunteers. For more info on the topics Tobi covers [...]

By |May 26th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Tags: , , |Comments Off on Creative Volunteer Training Activities That Boost Interaction, Inspiration & Learning

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 you’re looking to organically build your legions of followers, there’s a simple trick to it. Connecting. We've written a master guide to designing graphics (without professional help) that connect with audiences on social media. The guide includes eight types of graphics you should be sharing on social, and each type includes a ready-made Canva template so you can start connecting with your audiences in a matter of minutes. Learn to connect

By |May 24th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized|Comments Off on The tricks to sharing social posts people care about
  • Supervisor of Volunteers for the Reluctant-Tobi Johnson

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 experience, or anyone that has not received supervisor training.  Supervisor of Volunteers: for the Reluctant Registration Information Free for VolunteerPro members | or consider VolunteerPro membership  $59 for non members | Register here SOLD OUT!!  Look for future trainings here. Can't join us live? We will send webinar recording, slides, and handouts to all registrants. Partner Offering Disclaimer This is a "Partner Offering", curated by SAVMA Leaders. We recommend this training, do not have a financial relationship with individual or [...]

By |May 24th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Supervisor of Volunteers: for the Reluctant

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 awarded upon completion of all seven four-hour courses. Each of the courses is being offered in-person both in Phoenix and Tucson. Participants can take courses as needed to meet their professional development needs; simply register and attend each class as your schedule permits. Who will Benefit New and aspiring nonprofit managers in need of fundamental knowledge and skills to effectively manage a nonprofit organization. Experienced nonprofit managers seeking to refine their skills, and learn new trends and processes. Program Managers [...]

By |May 16th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Uncategorized, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Best Skills in Management Certificate
  • Tobi Johnson, Count What Matters Webinar

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, still time to sign-up. Can't make it live? The recording & handouts will be sent to all registrants after the webinar.  You will learn … How to use a Logic Model to describe your theory of change How to develop SMART outcome indicators based on the model How to decide which metrics are the highest priority for you How to create dashboards to keep you on track throughout the year How to communicate goals to volunteers so they take ownership [...]

By |May 10th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Count What Matters Webinar
  • Overtime Law Changes Loom picture of an alarm clock

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 salary and duties test. The Department of Labor (DOL) has proposed changes that would increase the minimum salary requirement for the administrative, professional, and executive exemptions from $455 per week to $970 per week in 2016. The highly compensated employee exemption would also increase. The DOL is also proposing automatic annual increases. Final regulations are expected to be issued in late spring or early summer. Here are some guidelines from HR Strategies to help you prepare: Click here to read [...]

By |May 4th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples|Tags: |Comments Off on Overtime Law Changes Loom
  • Nonprofit board boot camp a decorative logo

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 prepared to serve your nonprofit’s mission. Become a NPO Ambassador naturally and develop your network pipeline. Our workshop starts early troopers so get there at 7:00am and enjoy a Continental breakfast with breaks throughout the morning. Presenting the Nonprofit Boot Camp Valley Leadership, Leader Link, Arizona Nonprofit Academy, Blue Cross Blue Shield and Eide Bailly. Date: Saturday, April 23, 2016 Time: Check In 7:00am | Workshop 7:30am – 11:45am Location: CamelSquare Community Room | 4250 E. Camelback, Suite K-480, Phoenix, [...]

By |April 13th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Tags: |Comments Off on Board Issues? Try Nonprofit Board Boot Camp!
  • Inside Out Program Evaluation-Tobi Johnson

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 - 2:00PM EST/10:00AM - 11:00AM PST You may not have the budget to hire and outside evaluator to assess your programs, but that does not mean you cannot do it yourself. We'll show you how to conduct a DIY audit that is done by your program, for the benefit of your program, at little cost to you. You'll Also Get the Following Materials: DIY Volunteer Program Audit Self Assessment Spreadsheet DIY Audit Guide DIY Audit Project Plan DIY Audit Talking Points [...]

By |April 11th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Inside Out Program Evaluation
  • Coaching for Engagement- Terri Sinclair

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. This workshop will help you understand: Why disengagement happens Techniques to create a new culture Obstacles you'll need to overcome Best practices to engage employees Having the tools to help your team is critical for your success and stress relief! Temporary - 'flavor of the month' solutions are temporary, and continuing to use them can erode the culture of engagement you want to build. $50 includes workshop, materials, and continental breakfast $40 for local ATD members Instructor: Terri Sinclair Terri [...]

By |April 8th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development|Comments Off on Coaching for Engagement
  • Nominations Extended for Congressional Award

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 about the nomination can be found on the original post: Congressional First Responder of Distinction Award Nominations Open the deadline is April 8, but we have extended it to May 1, 2016. The National Emergency Management Association has acknowledged each of the Congressional districts to honor consituents with such awards. Find your Congressional Representative.  Congresswoman McSally Congresswoman Martha McSally, holds a B.S., United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colo., 1988; M.P.P., John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, Cambridge, [...]

By |April 8th, 2016|Categories: VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Nominations Extended for Congressional Award

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 Valley, AZ 85737 Date: 04/15/2016 11:00 AM UTC-07:00 This is Your Raise, Establishing Your Value In the Marketplace Learning Objectives: Determine what is of value Create a matrix to compare your contribution to the determining value Bring a brown bag lunch. Vending machines and Savaya coffee bar on site.Don Zavis is an accomplished executive with a successful history of taking private and publicorganizations to new levels of sales and profitability. He has an outstanding record of hiring the highestlevel of [...]

By |April 8th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on This is Your Raise Establishing Your Value In the Marketplace
  • Wild Apricot: Online Summit

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 an update on a project we've been working on for the past 2 years, called Solution Splitting. click here to read the full update Membership Summit 4 DAYS AWAY! April 4th - 8th: 6 FREE webinars, 7 experts 3,018 Nonprofit Professionals have already signed up and there are still spots left! This will be the biggest webinar event we've ever held. Learn how to attract, convert, and retain new members to grow your organization. click here to sign up and learn more We're [...]

By |April 1st, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, Resources and Samples|Comments Off on Wild Apricot: Membership Online Summit

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 nonprofit leaders, with  research based curriculum from ASU Lodestar Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Management. Click here for more information and registration. Best Skills Classes Volunteers in Service Managing our most valuable assets: Volunteers in service.   People, whether they are employees or volunteers, are the life-force of any nonprofit organization.  This training session will provide tools for developing job descriptions, recruiting/hiring, orienting, training, and evaluating and coaching the performance of employees and volunteers.  Special emphasis on communication, motivation and recognizing volunteer [...]

By |March 29th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Best Skills in Nonprofit Management Certificate Again

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 2010, the farmer-owners of Cabot Creamery Cooperative have presented the Cabot Community Celebrity Award program to honor the achievements and contributions of volunteers from every part of our great nation. The deadline to nominate a volunteer is May 2, 2016. Learn more and nominate an outstanding volunteer here. Interested to learn who received this award? We were: The Carter Work Project Are you interested in more Partner Program Opportunities? Search the blog by category. Next Partner Oppertunity: Points of Light [...]

By |March 28th, 2016|Categories: VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Partner Opportunity: Points of Light
  • and Work in Teams

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 and northern Arizona communities. Appreciation, recognition and teamwork led to an increased retention rate and they cannot wait to share how they did it. This dynamic duo from Catholic Charities of Arizona, headquarted in Phoenix, will head south to present their workshop to the Green Valley Sahuarita Volunteer Clearinghouse, a SAVMA partner organization. Registration for this free workshop is required, on Friday, April 22 from 1-3pm at the Joyner Green Valley Library. Workshop Details When: Friday April 22, 2016 from 1:00 [...]

By |March 28th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, VEP Ecosystem Offerings|Comments Off on Ways to Appreciate Volunteers and Work in Teams

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 can choose from more than 120 workshops. Led by highly-respected experts, with 11 learning tracks exploring innovative solutions and trending topics there is something for everyone. Help Shape the Future of Volunteerism with Education Tracks Tracks include: Business, Capacity Building, Educational Opportunity, Disaster Services, Government, Global, Next Generation Leaders, National Service, Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Sustainable Community Development, and Volunteer Engagement. Scholarships Available | Application Deadline - March 25 The scholarship offers registration and travel reimbursement (up to $1,500) for [...]

By |March 14th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on Help Shape the Future of Volunteerism

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, 2016 Strengthening & Re-energizing your volunteer program. SAVMA Happy Hour Wednesday, July 20th TBD SAVMA Holiday Luncheon Wednesday, December 21, 2016  11:30am-1:00pm Registration is required on the Event Registration Page!

By |March 8th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Events, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on Save the Dates 2016
  • High Impact Presenting

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 a dramatic increase in engagement and effectiveness. Program Details What: The Six Secrets of High Impact Presenting When: Wednesday, May 18 from 11:30 am-1:00 pm Where: Habitat for Humanity conf room (3501 N. Mountain Ave (85719) Who: Sara Griffiths, from Wholeonomy Consulting, Presented by Sarah Griffiths, Wholonomy Consulting Sarah Griffiths applies strengths based approaches to change processes, whether the change is at the individual, organization, collaboration, or system level. She helps create processes and the conditions for supporting change, and blends her knowledge of [...]

By |March 8th, 2016|Categories: Learning and Development, SAVMA Programs|Comments Off on High Impact Presenting