How Arizona Nonprofits Can Get, Keep More Volunteers

By Christina Estes
Published: Tuesday, November 20, 2018 - 2:40pm

Audio icon Download mp3 (11.63 MB)

It’s the time of year where people are often asked to donate time or money to help nonprofits. And Arizona has a lot of them. The Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits represents more than 800 nonprofits across the state.

Arizona volunteerism statistic.
Corporation for National and Community Service

Many rely heavily on volunteers. In a report released last week, the Corporation for National and Community Service found 30 percent of Arizona residents volunteer, ranking 34th among states. The most popular ways for Arizonans to give back include fundraising, teaching and mentoring.

But, some people quit — or never even get started — because nonprofits lack effective volunteer programs.

That will be one of the issues addressed during the Arizona Summit on Volunteerism and Civic Engagement on Dec. 6 at Arizona State University’s West Campus in Glendale.

Front Desk Ambassador Volunteer Stephani Jolley and Artifact Cart Volunteer Frank Grinere
City of Phoenix staff
Front Desk Ambassador Volunteer Stephani Jolley and Artifact Cart Volunteer Frank Grinere.

Nicole Armstrong-Best, administrator for the Pueblo Grande Museum in Phoenix, will lead a volunteer management academy at the summit and recently spoke with KJZZ about ways to attract, retain and recognize volunteers.

Volunteer Twig Johnson discussing prehistoric artifacts with a girl scout visitor
City of Phoenix
Volunteer Twig Johnson discussing prehistoric artifacts with a girl scout visitor.

More Stories From KJZZ

BusinessThe Show