Where to Find Your Next Great Volunteer (Hint: Look Here First!)

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 diving into the question every leader asks: Where do I find volunteers? The answer might be closer than you think.

Don’t Start with Strangers. Start with Circles.

You don’t need to stand on a street corner with a clipboard to find volunteers. In fact, the best place to start is within your existing network. Before casting a wide net, look at the people you already know.

Pull out the job descriptions you’ve written (or are still refining) and think:
“Who in my life fits this role?”

Consider friends, colleagues, neighbors, parents from your kids’ schools—anyone who might align with your mission and bring the right skills or heart.

Then, text them. Invite them to coffee. And when you sit down, have a real conversation:

• Share why your mission matters.

• Reflect back the strengths you’ve seen in them.

• Invite them to pilot the role, not marry it.

Have a printed or digital job description ready. Be ready to set a training and start date.

This is invitation, not obligation. And it’s powerful.

Then, Expand to Volunteer “Pools”

Once you’ve reached the end of your personal list (and even extroverts hit a limit!), it’s time to look outward.

Here are the next best places to connect with great volunteers:

1. Community Events Where You Already Are

Are you already hosting or attending outreach events? Don’t miss the opportunity to invite people in. Set up a small sign-up area. Share a compelling stat or story when people ask about what you do. Always have a simple way to collect contact info.

2. Volunteer-Specific Fairs and College Events

Volunteer fairs, student expos, or service-oriented events in your city are prime spaces. People are there looking for ways to get involved. Show up with a clear invitation and a compelling mission story.

3. Networking Events

Attend local networking mixers and community gatherings. Practice your one-minute pitch that connects the heart of your mission to the listener. Watch for the spark in their eye—that’s your cue to keep the conversation going.

Don’t just give your card—get theirs. That way, you control the follow-up.

One Last Spot You Might Be Missing…

Think about groups that already visit your organization—whether for a tour, team-building activity, or one-time service project. These folks have shown up once… maybe they’ll show up again.

Make a habit of inviting them in. Create a simple interest card they can fill out. Share a brief but powerful story about your mission. Follow up within 48 hours.

You’re Not Just Looking for People. You’re Looking for the Right People.

Finding volunteers isn’t just about numbers—it’s about alignment. And when you invite people from a place of passion, with a clear role and personal connection, you’ll build a team that sticks.

So before you try to market to the masses, pause. Look around you. Who might be just one conversation away from saying “yes”?