Find volunteers for your activity
Thinking about what you need from your volunteers will make it easier to find them.
Last updated: 6 April, 2021
By working out the tasks you need help with you’ll know if you need specialist skills or not.
Different types of communication will attract people in different ways so think about who you’re aiming your volunteering opportunities at. Look at Work out who your audience is for more information.
Think about the places in your community people visit:
Libraries
GP surgeries
Dentists
Community meetings
Schools, colleges and universities. Are they studying courses that are relevant to your event?
Cafés and bars
Local businesses
People often volunteer for causes they believe in. It’s important you get your message right when telling people about your event. Also choose the right communication channel to reach potential volunteers.
We tend to find volunteers through 2 main channels: social media and posters on noticeboards in key places in the community like the library and community centre
KarenCycling without Age
Find other groups doing something that complements your activity
Look for similar groups and organisations where people already volunteer.
You might be able to work with a group who meets the same needs in your area or deals with the same target audience.
Many groups and charities have a volunteering service with specific roles for their volunteers. They may be able to offer your activity as an opportunity to their volunteers.
Look at Find support from local businesses and community groups for a list of people and groups where you might find people.
I got great support from the local community and managed to find 100 volunteers through contacting local running clubs
ClaireUrmston 5K Fun Run and Walk
Ask people in your own network
Whatever you ask your volunteers to do, you’ll need people you can rely on.
You might already have a network of contacts so use them.
A lot of my volunteer coaches were found through my own social network. One is my podiatrist, one is a close friend, and another is someone that contacted me about an article I'd written in a running magazine
JaneMileShyClub
Advertise on volunteering websites
There are websites where you can advertise your volunteering opportunities and find volunteers.
Be clear about what you need and when you need people to get the best response.
Here a few websites to try:
You can also add your activity or group to Co-operate and ask for volunteers.
Share your story
Do you have a story about how your community has come together to support each other?
We'd love to share your story on our website to encourage other people to get or offer support.
