How to Use Networking Events to Find Passionate Volunteers

About This Series: Inviting Volunteers

It’s time to move past the pressure of recruitment and into the practice of invitation. This series is all about making volunteerism more relational, more intentional, and more effective. We’re reframing what it means to grow a team—not through pleas and pressure, but through clarity and connection.

In this post, we’re exploring a strategy that too many organizations overlook: networking events. These aren’t just for business cards and LinkedIn connections—they’re one of the best ways to meet people who care deeply about their community and want to be part of something meaningful.

Why Networking Events Work

At any given networking event, you’ll find a mix of professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, and community-minded individuals. And you know what they often have in common?

• A desire to connect with purpose

• A curiosity about what’s happening in their city

• A willingness to get involved when something resonates

These events offer a chance to build relationships—not just blast announcements. That means you can make a real impression.

But showing up isn’t enough. You need a plan.

Mindset Shift: From Pitching to Connecting

You’re not there to “recruit.” You’re there to connect.
The goal isn’t to walk away with a stack of business cards. It’s to have a few real conversations with people who light up when they hear about your mission.

And those conversations start with intention.

Your Networking Event Game Plan

1. Go Prepared

Before you show up:

• Know the purpose of the event (Is it industry-specific? General networking?)

• Set a goal for how many people you want to connect with

• Bring cards or handouts only if they’re clear and compelling

But more importantly—be ready to talk about your mission.

2. Craft Your One-Minute Invitation

Most events give you a chance to introduce yourself to the group. Think of this as your elevator pitch, but with heart.

Here’s a simple format:

• Start with a striking stat or a one-line story

• Share your mission

• Wrap with an open invitation

Example:

“In the 15 minutes it took me to drive here, almost 100 reports of child abuse and neglect were made in the U.S. That’s why our mission is to end child abuse and neglect. If that matters to you too, I’d love to talk about ways you can make a difference in lives.”

Practice it until it feels conversational and natural. You want it to invite, not overwhelm.

3. Pay Attention to the Spark

As you mingle, watch for the people who:

• Ask thoughtful follow-up questions

• Share their own personal connection to similar causes

• Light up when you talk about your work

Those are your potential volunteers.

Let others go with grace. Not everyone will be your person—and that’s okay.

4. Get Their Info (Not Just Give Yours)

This part is critical:
Don’t just hand out your card. Ask for theirs.

Say something like:

“I’d love to follow up and share a few ways you could plug in. Mind if I get your info?”

Once you have it, follow up within 24–48 hours. Even a quick text or email makes a big difference.

5. Have a Next Step Ready

When someone shows interest, be ready to invite them to:

• A coffee chat to talk more

• A volunteer info session

• A one-time event where they can test it out

Don’t wait weeks. Interest fades fast—so strike while the heart is open.

Networking Events Are Goldmines—If You Use Them Intentionally

It’s not about pitching perfectly. It’s about showing up with passion, telling the truth about your mission, and being ready to follow up with care.

The most committed volunteers often start as curious strangers at a networking event. With the right words and a personal invitation, you can turn a handshake into a lasting impact.