6 Inspiring Volunteer Appreciation Week
Gifts, Ideas & Activities
When is Volunteer Appreciation Week?
National Volunteer Week, also referred to as Volunteer Appreciation Week, was first created in 1974 to promote and inspire volunteer projects and volunteerism around the country. Volunteer Appreciation Week 2021 will take place in the U.S. from April 18-24, 2021. Volunteer Week has expanded to become National Volunteer Month, a month-long celebration that takes place every April. Additionally, there is a special day designated each April as well- Volunteer Recognition Day, also called Volunteer Appreciation Day, which will take place this year on April 22, 2021. Even if you aren’t able to celebrate in person, doesn’t mean you have to skip this year’s celebration.
Who Should Celebrate National Volunteer Week?
- Nonprofit organizations
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Animal Shelters
- Churches
- Any group looking to thank volunteers and inspire new ones to take action!
Now that we’ve established that April is the perfect time to recognize the valuable contributions that volunteers make throughout the year, thank your team for all that they do with one or more of the volunteer appreciation activities and gift ideas listed below.
Volunteer Appreciation Ideas
Although your celebrations may look different from previous years, any of the ideas on the below list can be turned into a virtual event. Ahead of the virtual celebration, send participants easy to mail swag or a recognition gift just as they would have received at the in-person event. You can even send them a gift card to a local restaurant so everyone can enjoy a meal together virtually. If you are planning a socially distanced celebration, stock up on branded PPE.
- Host a Party
Invite your team of volunteers to a party where each person’s contribution is recognized. Hand out drawstring “swag” bags filled with small appreciation gifts such as sunglasses printed with your organization’s logo and sweet treats.
- Plan a Luncheon
Cater a special luncheon for volunteers to show them how much they are appreciated. Give each volunteer a commemorative t-shirt ahead of time that they can wear to the event. Don’t forget to take a group photo! Hand out a thoughtful giveaway such as customized water bottles with a thank-you message or your organization’s logo printed on each one.
- Hold an Award Ceremony
Host a dinner party or other award ceremony to recognize the outstanding efforts of your volunteers. Hand out printed certificates, awards, and other thank-you gifts, such as a personalized pint glass set or custom Bluetooth® speaker.
- Send a Thank-You Card
Whether you send an e-card or send one through snail mail, a personalized thank-you message can go a long way. A thank-you card magnet can serve as a long-lasting way to show your appreciation. If you plan to send a greeting card through the mail, consider including a gift card or other small token of appreciation.
- Harness the Power of Social Media
Social media posts which thank volunteers and highlight their projects and efforts are a great way to recognize your volunteer team and also serve as a great recruitment tool to encourage others to participate in your cause. Post pics of volunteers a in action as well as at your appreciation events with this fun selfie frame.
- Volunteer Appreciation Gifts
Still looking for more ways to make your volunteers feel recognized and valued? Here are a few more thoughtful gift ideas that your volunteers are sure to enjoy every time they use them:
- Custom Drinkware
A custom insulated tumbler is a useful gift that people can use every day with their favorite hot and cold beverages. The 20 oz Himalayan Tumbler and 16 oz Accents Stainless Tumbler are one of many great choices. Add a fun and inspiration quote to your tumbler to make your gift even more unique.
- Personalized Umbrellas
Show your volunteers you care with a practical gift such as an imprinted umbrella. Add your logo or thank-you message to the Revolution Umbrella for a gift idea with lasting power.
- Logoed Blankets
Your volunteers give you the warm fuzzies, return the favor by gifting them embroidered blankets! Whether it is a fleece throw blanket to keep them cozy at home, or a logoed picnic blanket for outdoor fun, your volunteers will feel good every time they use it.
- Stress Relievers
Encourage self-care and stress reduction amongst your team of volunteers with a branded stress reliever. Choose from a hashtag stress reliever to go along with your social media campaigns, or a star-shaped or heart style. After all, volunteering is an act of the heart!
- Custom Drinkware
Thanking volunteers isn’t limited to April. International Volunteer Day, recognized by the United Nations, takes place in December and Random Acts of Kindness Week is celebrated during the week of February 17th each year.
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