Volunteers sorting and packing food

Chapter Five: Membership Committee Roles

Committee Leadership Roles

Open Role

Position Title (Role): Mixer Chair
Location: Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule: 3 hours per week
Function: Member Engagement and Relations
Family: Member Retention
Reports to: Membership Chair
   
Job Structure (Classification) Volunteer- People Leader
Job Level: Senior Operational
Functional Knowledge Requires advanced knowledge of event coordination, member engagement, and community networking. Demonstrates the ability to plan and execute social and networking events that foster professional relationships, member belonging, and collaboration within SAVMA.
Problem Solving and Complexity
  • Requires the ability to anticipate and resolve event-related challenges (e.g., scheduling, venue, vendor, or participant needs) with diplomacy, resourcefulness, and creativity.
  • Manages multiple planning elements simultaneously while ensuring events align with SAVMA’s mission, values, and brand standards.
Autonomy and Decision-Making
  • Operates with low supervision under established policies and within an approved event budget.
  • Exercises independent judgment in event planning, coordination, and volunteer leadership, while maintaining regular communication with the Membership Committee Chair and committee members.
Scope and Impact
  • Plans and leads SAVMA’s social and networking mixers to strengthen the member experience, encourage peer learning, and enhance professional connections.
  • These events advance SAVMA’s membership engagement goals and support retention and recruitment strategies across the association.
Leadership and Influence
  • Leads a volunteer team to plan, coordinate, and host mixers.
  • Collaborate with the Communications Committee to promote events, and with the Program and Events Committee to align calendars and content themes.
  • Build positive partnerships with community organizations, venues, and sponsors.
Core Competencies:
  • Relationship building
  • Member service
  • Communication
  • Outreach
  • Appreciation/recognition
  • Planning
  • Collaboration
 
Position Purpose: To lead the planning and implementation of SAVMA’s social mixers and networking events, creating welcoming opportunities for members and community partners to connect, share insights, and celebrate the profession of volunteer engagement. The Social Mixer Chair ensures these events reflect SAVMA’s commitment to inclusivity, collaboration, and professional excellence.
Responsibilities:
  • Plan and coordinate all aspects of SAVMA’s social mixers, including venue selection, logistics, hospitality, and accessibility.
  • Recruit and lead volunteers or subcommittees to support event execution and follow-up.
  • Collaborate with the Membership Committee to identify themes, community partnerships, or sponsorship opportunities for events.
  • Work with the Communications Committee to develop promotional content and event announcements.
  • Manage event budgets, monitor expenses, and ensure financial integrity within approved allocations.
  • Prepare event materials, signage, and attendance tracking tools consistent with SAVMA brand standards.
  • Facilitate or assign hosts for each mixer to ensure members and guests feel welcomed and engaged.
  • Gather attendee feedback and compile post-event evaluations to inform future improvements.
  • Maintain event documentation, contact lists, and vendor records to support long-term continuity and institutional memory.
Required Qualifications:
  • Active membership in SAVMA
  • Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values.
  • Experience in event planning, volunteer coordination, or community engagement.
  • Strong organizational and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior service on a SAVMA committee or event team.
  • Experience with volunteer engagement, nonprofit events, or hospitality coordination.
  • Familiarity with budget tracking, sponsorships, or partnership development.
Skills and Abilities:
  • Leadership and team development.
  • Project management and attention to detail.
  • Creativity and adaptability.
  • Cross-committee collaboration.
  • Financial accountability and documentation.
  • Inclusive and professional facilitation.
Start Date: January 1
End Date: February 28
Length of Appointment: Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Membership Committee Chair.
Open Role

Position Title (Role): International Volunteer Managers Day (IVMD) Chair
Location: Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule: 2–3 hours per week during planning months (August–November), lighter time commitment the remainder of the year
Function: Member Engagement and Recognition
Family: Recognition & Nominations
Reports to: Membership Committee Chair
   
Job Structure (Classification) Volunteer- People Leader
Job Level: Senior Operational
Functional Knowledge Requires advanced knowledge of member engagement, recognition planning, and event coordination. Demonstrates ability to design and execute meaningful celebrations that honor Volunteer Engagement Professionals (VEPs) and align with SAVMA’s mission, values, and national recognition standards.
Problem Solving and Complexity
  • Requires the ability to coordinate across committees and partners, manage logistics, and creatively engage members in celebration and storytelling.
  • Balances recognition traditions with innovation, ensuring inclusivity and alignment with SAVMA’s brand and annual goals.
Autonomy and Decision-Making
  • Operates with low supervision under the Membership Committee Chair, maintaining discretion and accountability in planning, communications, and budget management.
  • Exercises independent judgment within approved event parameters, and collaborates closely with the Communications and Program & Events Committees.
Scope and Impact
  • Leads SAVMA’s recognition efforts for International Volunteer Managers Day, fostering pride in the profession and enhancing community visibility.
  • Builds engagement opportunities that strengthen SAVMA membership, highlight industry leadership, and elevate the profile of volunteer engagement professionals in Southern Arizona.
Leadership and Influence
  • Leads a volunteer team to design, coordinate, and host IVMD-related celebrations and campaigns.
  • Serves as a liaison between SAVMA and local/national partners (e.g., AL!VE, Points of Light, CCVA) to align messaging and recognition efforts.
Core Competencies:
  • Relationship building
  • Member service
  • Communication
  • Outreach
  • Appreciation/recognition
  • Planning
  • Collaboration
 
Position Purpose: To lead the planning and implementation of SAVMA’s annual International Volunteer Managers Day (IVMD) celebration and recognition initiatives. The IVMD Chair fosters community pride and awareness of the Volunteer Engagement Profession by organizing events, campaigns, and storytelling opportunities that celebrate the impact and leadership of SAVMA members and peers in the field.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead planning and execution of SAVMA’s annual IVMD celebration in November.
  • Organize recognition events and campaigns for Volunteer Engagement Professionals.
  • Work with Membership and Communications Committees to promote IVMD via blog, newsletter, and social media.
  • Involve members and partners in storytelling and thank-you campaigns for volunteer managers.
  • Develop yearly IVMD theme and plan using AL!VE’s international branding.
  • Oversee event logistics: venue, vendors, catering, accessibility, and technology.
  • Recruit and support volunteers or subcommittee members for event tasks.
  • Maintain budget compliance and submit expense documentation.
  • Coordinate with Program & Events Committee to connect IVMD with other professional activities.
  • Gather feedback, participation, and photos for the annual report and archive.
Required Qualifications:
  • Active membership in SAVMA (required for all People Leader–level roles).
  • Commitment to SAVMA’s mission, values, and professional standards.
  • Experience in event coordination, recognition planning, or volunteer engagement.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to manage timelines and multiple priorities effectively.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior service on a SAVMA committee or event team.
  • Familiarity with International Volunteer Managers Day, AL!VE campaigns, or related recognition programs.
  • Experience in nonprofit, volunteer management, or public relations roles.
  • Comfort with public speaking, storytelling, or community representation.
Skills and Abilities:
  • Leadership and volunteer coordination.
  • Project and event management.
  • Collaboration and relationship building.
  • Budget planning and financial documentation.
  • Creativity, innovation, and attention to detail.
  • Inclusive and celebratory communication.
Start Date: January 1
End Date: February 28
Length of Appointment: Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Membership Committee Chair.
Open Role

Position Title (Role): Mentorship Lead (Peer Buddy Program Coordinator)
Location: Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule: 2–3 hours per week, with additional time during recruitment and launch cycles
Function: Member Engagement and Relations
Family: Member Retention
Reports to: Membership Committee Chair
   
Job Structure (Classification) Volunteer- People Leader
Job Level: Expert
Functional Knowledge Requires advanced understanding of professional development, adult learning, and peer relationship facilitation. Demonstrates ability to design and manage a structured accountability-based buddy program that strengthens connection, collaboration, and continuous growth among SAVMA members.
Problem Solving and Complexity
  • Requires the ability to balance relationship-based learning with structure and accountability.
  • Designs a program that ensures psychological safety, equity, and measurable outcomes while managing communication, scheduling, and feedback loops among multiple peer partners.
Autonomy and Decision-Making
  • Operates with low supervision within the strategic framework of the Membership Committee.
  • Exercises independent judgment in program design, participant matching, communication cadence, and evaluation processes.
Scope and Impact
  • Leads the SAVMA Buddy Program, fostering a professional community where Volunteer Engagement Professionals (VEPs) support one another’s learning, problem-solving, and goal achievement.
  • This role enhances member retention, engagement, and leadership pipeline development across SAVMA.
Leadership and Influence
  • Serves as the program designer, facilitator, and champion of SAVMA’s peer accountability initiative.
  • Collaborates across committees to align this work with SAVMA’s professional development and communications goals and cultivates a culture of shared learning and mutual support.
Core Competencies:
  • Relationship building
  • Member service
  • Communication
  • Outreach
  • Appreciation/recognition
  • Planning
  • Collaboration
 
Position Purpose: To create and oversee the SAVMA Peer Buddy Program, a structured, accountability-based peer partnership model designed to connect members for mutual support, skill development, and professional growth. The Mentorship Lead ensures the program fosters reflection, goal setting, and progress tracking — empowering members to thrive together rather than within hierarchical mentor–mentee dynamics.
Responsibilities:
  • Launch and assess the SAVMA Peer Buddy Program using an accountability partner model.
  • Maintain all program materials, including guides, applications, pairing forms, and templates.
  • Recruit and onboard members via outreach and info sessions.
  • Match participants based on goals, interests, experience, and communication style.
  • Run orientation sessions covering expectations, confidentiality, and accountability.
  • Share monthly prompts or reflection themes for participant engagement.
  • Organize optional networking events or discussion spaces.
  • Track participation and satisfaction; offer re-matching or mediation as needed.
  • Collect feedback and monitor progress to guide program improvements.
  • Work with relevant committees to align learning themes with SAVMA programming.
  • Store documentation in the committee’s shared drive for future reference.
Required Qualifications:
  • Active membership in SAVMA (required for all People Leader–level roles).
  • Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values.
  • Experience in volunteer engagement, professional learning, or program coordination.
  • Excellent facilitation and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage confidential and sensitive peer interactions professionally.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior service on a SAVMA committee or leadership team.
  • Experience designing or facilitating peer learning or coaching programs.
  • Familiarity with AL!VE Standards, CCVA competencies, or adult learning frameworks.
  • Understanding of evaluation and continuous improvement principles (RBA or similar).
Skills and Abilities:
  • Leadership and program management.
  • Peer facilitation and group dynamics.
  • Confidentiality and trust building.
  • Project planning and organization.
  • Data collection and analysis.
  • Communication, empathy, and inclusivity.
Start Date: January 1
End Date: February 28
Length of Appointment: Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Membership Committee Chair.

Member Roles

Position Title (Role): Membership Committee Member
Location: Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule: 1-2 hours per week
Function: Member Engagement and Relations
Family: Member Engagement and Relations
Reports to: Membership Committee Chair
   
Job Structure (Classification) Volunteer- Individual Contributor
Job Level: Core
Functional Knowledge Requires foundational knowledge and understanding of principles and skills necessary to perform in the profession or area of specialization. Demonstrates an understanding of member engagement, recruitment, and retention practices, and applies a sound knowledge of organizational technologies and communication practices.
Problem Solving and Complexity
  • Requires the ability to identify and resolve less complex problems or assignments.
  • Uses sound problem-solving techniques and judgment to determine when additional guidance or assistance is needed.
Autonomy and Decision-Making
  • Requires the ability to apply limited analysis and decision-making techniques within an area of specialization to make decisions.
  • Decision-making authority is limited to established practices and procedures.
Scope and Impact
  • Duties and responsibilities generally have a focused scope and impact, typically limited to the Membership Committee or related member engagement activities.
  • Contributes directly to the success of membership recruitment, retention, and engagement efforts.
Leadership and Influence
  • Influence is limited to the area of specialization.
  • May provide guidance and support to other committee members or volunteers engaged in membership activities.
Core Competencies:
  • Member Engagement
  • Relationship building
  • Member service
  • Communication
  • Outreach
  • Appreciation/recognition
  • Planning
  • Collaboration
 
Position Purpose: To support the recruitment, engagement, and retention of SAVMA members by contributing to outreach, communications, and member experience initiatives that align with SAVMA’s strategic goals and AL!VE’s Standards for Organizational Volunteer Engagement.
Responsibilities:
  • Member Outreach & Recruitment – Assist in implementing membership campaigns, respond to inquiries, and promote SAVMA benefits and events to prospective members.
  • Member Engagement & Retention – Support the planning and execution of activities, surveys, and recognition efforts to strengthen member satisfaction and participation.
  • Data & Recordkeeping – Help maintain accurate membership data and assist in compiling reports or contact lists as directed.
  • Communication & Coordination – Contribute to newsletters, website updates, or member communications to ensure consistent and professional outreach.
  • Committee Collaboration – Attend meetings, share feedback, and participate in planning and evaluating membership initiatives.
Required Qualifications:
  • Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values.
  • Working knowledge of the Volunteer Engagement Professional industry.
  • Interest in member engagement, communications, or volunteer program management.
  • Basic proficiency with email, online meetings, and shared document platforms.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Active membership in SAVMA
  • 2 years of board or committee experience
Skills and Abilities:
  • Interpersonal communication and teamwork.
  • Organization and time management.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Adaptability in a collaborative, all-volunteer environment.
Start Date: January 1
End Date: February 28
Length of Appointment: Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Membership Committee Chair.
Open Role

Position Title (Role): Membership Benefits Coordinator
Location: Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule: 2 hours per week
Function: Member Engagement and Relations
Family: Member Benefits & Services
Reports to: Membership Chair
   
Job Structure (Classification) Volunteer- Individual Contributor
Job Level: Advanced
Functional Knowledge Requires advanced understanding of member value propositions, association benefits administration, and stakeholder engagement. Demonstrates the ability to coordinate, communicate, and evaluate benefits that support SAVMA’s mission and strategic goals for member recruitment and retention.
Problem Solving and Complexity
  • Requires the ability to analyze member feedback, identify gaps in benefits or services, and recommend improvements.
  • Balances administrative accuracy with creative approaches to increasing member value.
  • Collaborates across committees to ensure benefits align with programs, events, and communications priorities.
Autonomy and Decision-Making
  • Operates independently within established policies, timelines, and budget parameters.
  • Exercises judgment in benefit coordination, communications, and relationship management, while maintaining regular collaboration with the Membership Committee Chair and Treasurer for benefit expenses or sponsorship arrangements.
Scope and Impact
  • Manages SAVMA’s portfolio of member benefits, discounts, and partnerships to ensure consistent delivery of value.
  • Supports the Membership Committee’s work to enhance retention and attract new members by clearly communicating and updating the tangible and experiential benefits of belonging to SAVMA.
Leadership and Influence
  • Provides oversight for benefit management processes, leads outreach to partner organizations offering member perks, and ensures benefit information is current and accessible.
  • Serves as the liaison between SAVMA committees and external partners regarding benefit alignment, promotion, and reporting.
Core Competencies:
  • Relationship building
  • Member service
  • Communication
  • Outreach
  • Appreciation/recognition
  • Planning
  • Collaboration
 
Position Purpose: To oversee and enhance the value of SAVMA membership through effective coordination, documentation, and communication of member benefits. The Membership Benefits Coordinator ensures that SAVMA members understand, access, and appreciate the benefits of belonging to the association, while supporting growth in recruitment and retention.
Responsibilities:
  • Maintain and update the SAVMA Member Benefits Inventory, tracking discounts, partner offers, and access details.
  • Support the Membership Committee in researching and recommending potential new member benefits or partnerships.
  • Assist with documentation and recordkeeping of benefit agreements, renewal dates, and contact information.
  • Collaborate with the Communications Committee to ensure accurate and visually consistent promotion of benefits across the website, newsletters, and social media.
  • Track usage, feedback, or inquiries related to member benefits and share insights with the Membership Committee.
  • Assist with benefit summaries or spotlights for onboarding materials and renewal announcements.
  • Support coordination of benefit-related recognition or appreciation for sponsors and partners.
  • Maintain organized digital files and update the shared drive with current benefit documents and reports.
Required Qualifications:
  • Active SAVMA membership.
  • Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values.
  • Interest in member engagement, benefits coordination, or communications.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and track multiple details.
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office, or shared document systems.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior volunteer or committee experience.
  • Familiarity with nonprofit membership structures or CRM systems.
  • Experience in administrative coordination, partnership support, or customer relations.
Skills and Abilities:
  • Organization and attention to detail.
  • Written and verbal communication.
  • Collaboration and teamwork.
  • Professionalism and discretion.
  • Consistency and follow-through.
Start Date: January 1
End Date: February 28
Length of Appointment: Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Membership Committee Chair.

Open Role

Position Title (Role): New Member Ambassador
Location: Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule: 2 hours per week
Function: Member Engagement and Relations
Family: Member Recruitment & Onboarding
Reports to: Membership Committee Chair
   
Job Structure (Classification) Volunteer- Individual Contributor
Job Level: Core
Functional Knowledge Requires a foundational understanding of member engagement and professional association practices. Demonstrates the ability to provide peer-to-peer outreach, communicate clearly, and foster belonging among new members through friendly, informed, and inclusive interactions.
Problem Solving and Complexity
  • Applies judgment and empathy in welcoming and connecting new members, identifying their interests, and directing them to appropriate committees, programs, or resources.
  • Escalates complex inquiries or membership issues to the Membership Committee Chair.
Autonomy and Decision-Making
  • Operates independently within established membership communication processes.
  • Exercises discretion in responding to member inquiries, maintaining confidentiality, and ensuring consistent and accurate information sharing.
Scope and Impact
  • Serves as a first point of contact for new members, ensuring they feel valued, informed, and connected from their initial engagement with SAVMA.
  • Enhances member retention, satisfaction, and participation by cultivating meaningful introductions and consistent follow-up.
Leadership and Influence
  • Acts as an enthusiastic representative of SAVMA, modeling professional courtesy and engagement best practices.
  • Collaborates across committees to connect new members with volunteer and learning opportunities aligned with their interests.
Core Competencies:
  • Relationship building
  • Member service
  • Communication
  • Outreach
  • Appreciation/recognition
  • Planning
  • Collaboration
 
Position Purpose: To welcome and orient new SAVMA members by providing personalized introductions, sharing key resources, and facilitating connections to committees, events, and professional development opportunities. The New Member Ambassador ensures that every new member’s first experience with SAVMA reflects its culture of inclusion, professionalism, and collaboration.
Responsibilities:
  • Welcome new members via personalized email, phone call, or virtual meeting shortly after joining SAVMA.
  • Provide an overview of SAVMA membership benefits, upcoming events, and available volunteer opportunities.
  • Assist in guiding new members toward engagement pathways (e.g., committees, programs, mentorship, or peer buddy program).
  • Attend and help facilitate new member orientations or mixers hosted by the Membership Committee.
  • Maintain records of outreach efforts and track member engagement milestones in coordination with the Membership Committee Chair.
  • Follow up with new members after 30, 60, and 90 days to check in on their experience and answer questions.
  • Communicate feedback and engagement insights to the Membership Committee to improve onboarding and retention strategies.
  • Collaborate with the Communications Committee to ensure welcome materials and messages remain current and accurate.
  • Represent SAVMA at events and serve as a visible, approachable contact for new or prospective members.
Required Qualifications:
  • Active SAVMA membership.
  • Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Enthusiasm for community building and professional engagement.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
  • Basic familiarity with Google Workspace, MembershipWorks, or shared communication tools.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience in volunteer management, customer relations, or community outreach.
  • Familiarity with SAVMA’s committees, programs, and professional development offerings.
Skills and Abilities:
  • Relationship building and rapport development.
  • Clear, professional written and verbal communication.
  • Organization and attention to detail.
  • Responsiveness and follow-through.
  • Positive attitude and welcoming demeanor.
Start Date: January 1
End Date: February 28
Length of Appointment: Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Membership Committee Chair.
Open Role

Position Title (Role): Member Retention Coordinator
Location: Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule: 2 hours per week
Function: Member Engagement and Relations
Family: Member Retention
Reports to: Membership Committee Chair
   
Job Structure (Classification) Volunteer- Individual Contributor
Job Level: Career
Functional Knowledge Requires intermediate knowledge and understanding of principles and skills necessary to perform in the profession or area of specialization. Requires a core understanding of organizational technologies and practices.
Problem Solving and Complexity
  • Requires the ability to identify and resolve moderately complex problems/issues/assignments.
  • Requires trained problem-solving skills and techniques.
  • Identifies patterns in member activity, satisfaction, and renewal trends to recommend improvements.
  • Applies sound judgment in managing member communications, resolving issues, and escalating concerns appropriately to the Membership Committee Chair.
Autonomy and Decision-Making
  • Operates independently on assigned follow-ups and renewal tasks within established procedures.
  • Exercises judgment in communication tone, timing, and outreach methods, while adhering to SAVMA’s brand and engagement standards.
Scope and Impact
  • Contributes directly to SAVMA’s membership retention strategy by ensuring timely communication, positive member experiences, and data-informed insights.
  • Strengthens organizational sustainability by maintaining continuity in membership participation and engagement.
Leadership and Influence
  • Acts as a key point of contact for renewing and re-engaging members.
  • Collaborates with the Membership Committee, Treasurer, and Communications Committee to streamline retention communications and identify opportunities for improvement.
Core Competencies:
  • Relationship building
  • Member service
  • Communication
  • Outreach
  • Appreciation/recognition
  • Planning
  • Collaboration
 
Position Purpose: To support the retention and renewal of SAVMA members by coordinating outreach, tracking renewal data, and identifying opportunities to strengthen member engagement. The Member Retention Coordinator ensures members feel valued, supported, and connected throughout their SAVMA journey, contributing to the association’s long-term stability and growth.
Responsibilities:
  • Monitor membership renewal cycles, prepare renewal lists with the Membership Committee Chair and Treasurer, and conduct follow-up outreach (emails or phone calls) to members with upcoming or recently expired memberships.
  • Track responses, renewal confirmations, and notes in membership tracking spreadsheets or CRM systems, and identify members at risk of non-renewal for personalized outreach or re-engagement opportunities.
  • Collaborate with the Communications Committee to include renewal reminders in newsletters and targeted campaigns.
  • Gather feedback from renewing and lapsed members through surveys or direct communication, analyze retention data and trends, and share insights with the Membership Committee to inform future engagement strategies.
  • Work with the Membership Benefits Coordinator and New Member Ambassador to ensure a cohesive member experience from onboarding through renewal.
  • Support the planning of renewal promotions or appreciation activities (such as renewal raffles or newsletter recognition).
  • Maintain documentation and update membership records on the shared drive.
Required Qualifications:
  • Active SAVMA membership.
  • Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Attention to detail and ability to manage time-sensitive tasks.
  • Basic proficiency with spreadsheets, databases, or CRM tools.
  • Comfort engaging with members in a friendly, professional manner.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience in customer relations, membership services, or data tracking.
  • Familiarity with MembershipWorks or other membership management systems.
  • Understanding of nonprofit or association membership structures.
Skills and Abilities:
  • Organization and accuracy in recordkeeping.
  • Professional written and verbal communication.
  • Collaboration within a volunteer-led team.
  • Responsiveness and follow-through.
  • Analytical thinking and data interpretation.
Start Date: January 1
End Date: February 28
Length of Appointment: Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Membership Committee Chair.
Open Role

Position Title (Role): Awards Advocate (Member)
Location: Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule: 2 hours per week
Function: Member Engagement and Relations
Family: Recognition & Nominations
Reports to: Membership Committee Chair
   
Job Structure (Classification) Volunteer- Individual Contributor
Job Level: Career
Functional Knowledge Requires foundational understanding of professional association engagement, member recognition, and volunteer leadership development. Demonstrates the ability to connect members with recognition opportunities, promote participation in awards processes, and encourage peer nominations that reflect SAVMA’s values and community impact.
Problem Solving and Complexity
  • Identifies opportunities to increase member participation in awards-related activities through outreach, encouragement, and education.
  • Exercises judgment in guiding members through the nomination process, answering questions, and connecting them to appropriate committee or staff resources.
Autonomy and Decision-Making
  • Operates independently within SAVMA’s policies and procedures for awards and recognition.
  • Exercises discretion when encouraging nominations and maintains confidentiality regarding member information and nomination details.
Scope and Impact
  • Enhances member engagement, recognition, and professional development by promoting participation in the SAVMA Awards and related initiatives.
  • Builds pride in the profession by empowering members to celebrate one another and see awards involvement as a meaningful way to contribute to the field.
Leadership and Influence
  • Acts as an advocate for members, inspiring them to nominate peers, apply for recognition, and serve on awards-related committees or selection panels.
  • Collaborates with the Membership, Communications, and Awards Committees to share opportunities and increase visibility across SAVMA’s membership base.
Core Competencies:
  • Relationship building
  • Member service
  • Communication
  • Outreach
  • Appreciation/recognition
  • Planning
  • Collaboration
 
Position Purpose: To serve as a peer advocate for member recognition, encouraging SAVMA members to engage with awards programs as nominees, nominators, and committee participants. The Member Engagement Awards Advocate strengthens professional identity, visibility, and pride within the volunteer engagement field by championing recognition as a tool for professional development and community connection.
Responsibilities:
  • Actively promote participation in the SAVMA Awards among members, encouraging nominations and peer recognition.
  • Educate members about the professional development value of serving on awards selection panels or committees.
  • Identify and encourage emerging leaders to apply for or be nominated for awards and recognition programs.
  • Support outreach and storytelling efforts that highlight award categories, eligibility, and nomination best practices.
  • Partner with the Communications Committee to share calls for nominations, deadlines, and spotlights on past honorees.
  • Collaborate with the Membership Committee to identify potential nominees or engaged members who should be considered for recognition.
  • Represent the member perspective during cross-committee conversations about award engagement and accessibility.
  • Gather member feedback on recognition efforts and share insights to strengthen future award promotion strategies.
  • Help ensure equitable awareness and participation in awards across the full range of SAVMA’s membership sectors and demographics.
  • Participate in Membership Committee meetings and seasonal award planning discussions.
Required Qualifications:
  • Active SAVMA membership.
  • Commitment to SAVMA’s mission, values, and member-centered philosophy.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Enthusiasm for member engagement and professional recognition.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and inclusively with diverse members.
  • Willingness to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all award-related matters.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with SAVMA Awards, AL!VE recognition programs, or related initiatives.
  • Experience in volunteer engagement, membership development, or communications.
  • Prior participation in awards or peer recognition programs.
Skills and Abilities:
  • Relationship building and advocacy.
  • Clear written and verbal communication.
  • Collaboration and teamwork.
  • Organization and attention to detail.
  • Equity-centered outreach and storytelling.
Start Date: January 1
End Date: February 28
Length of Appointment: Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Membership Committee Chair.
Diagram of volunteer leadership structure in SAVMA