Why You’ll Never Have Enough Volunteers

Many nonprofits and churches face the same challenge: they don’t have enough volunteers. In recent years, this problem has only worsened. There is more need than ever, and organizations are often competing for the same pool of volunteers. Most available volunteers tend to be older, with more free time. Younger adults are busy juggling work, family, and life, leaving little room for volunteer commitments.

But here’s the truth: the real problem isn’t the number of volunteers. The real problem is that your organization is trying to do too much. You want to serve as many people as possible, respond to every community challenge, and make the most of your funding. These are all good intentions, but can you really do it all effectively and efficiently?

Over-Programming: The Hidden Trap

Over-programming is a common issue, especially in churches. Leaders try to respond to every need by starting new programs. Initially, people get energized, and the programs make an impact.

But soon, resources become stretched. The same three volunteers are running programs week after week, and leaders find themselves trapped in an endless cycle: seeking more volunteers or feeling like giving up.

Reflect for a moment: which programs in your organization are stretching your volunteers too thin?

The Solution: Mission-Driven Program Evaluation

You don’t have to feel stuck. Regular program evaluation tied to your mission and vision can be a game-changer. Your programs aren’t bad — many are likely excellent. But some programs, while well-intentioned, may not align with your mission or vision, or they may demand more resources than they’re worth.

It’s important to step back and ask: Which programs are truly delivering impact? Which are creating burnout among volunteers? Sometimes, focusing on a few high-impact programs is far better than trying to do everything for everyone.

Efficiency Matters Too

Efficiency goes hand-in-hand with quality. In trying to stretch resources, organizations sometimes misplace time, energy, or money. Could the same or better outcomes be achieved by investing in technology, hiring a staff member, or even improving facilities?

The goal is not to cut programs indiscriminately, but to make sure each program is serving your mission effectively and sustainably.

Volunteers Are Ready — But Don’t Burn Them Out

There are many dedicated volunteers willing to serve. Some may already be deeply involved with your organization, while also helping other groups. Asking them to take on yet another responsibility is a fast track to burnout.

It’s better to have a few highly effective programs staffed with energized and engaged volunteers than to try to do it all and leave everyone feeling overwhelmed.

Take the First Step

Most nonprofits and churches never take a step back to look objectively at what is really happening. Instead, they keep asking the same question: Why don’t we have enough volunteers?

If you’re facing this dilemma, consider reaching out to me at brandon@mustfulstrategicconsulting.com. Let’s take an objective look at your programs together. You probably have more options than you realize — and the solution may be simpler than you think.