7 Meaningful Ways to Appreciate Your Volunteers this National Volunteer Month
April is National Volunteer Month, which makes it the perfect time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the people who show up. Not for recognition. But because they care.
Volunteers are the steady hands and big hearts behind so many nonprofit missions. They pitch in wherever they’re needed, often juggling busy schedules to make space for your cause. And while they might not expect a thank-you, they absolutely deserve one.
Showing appreciation doesn’t have to be flashy or expensive. The most meaningful gestures are often the simplest, especially when they come from a place of genuine gratitude.
Here are seven ways to make your volunteers feel seen, valued, and celebrated this National Volunteer Month and throughout the year.
1. Say Thank You Often and Make It Personal 💌
A quick, heartfelt thank-you goes a long way. But when it's personal, it means even more.
Write a note. Leave a message. Pull someone aside after an event. Mention the specific way they showed up or helped out. It’s not just about gratitude. It’s about being present enough to notice.
Pro Tip: Kindest’s donor CRM makes it easy to track contributions so you can reference those small but meaningful moments when reaching out.
2. Highlight Volunteers in Your Communications 📸
Spotlighting your volunteers publicly is a great way to show appreciation and build community. Whether it’s a photo, a short story, or a quote from an event, these small touches make a big difference.
Include volunteer features in your newsletter, on social, or even on your website. When you celebrate the people behind your mission, it reminds others that they can be part of it too.
Bonus: Feature a “Volunteer of the Month” or a quick Q&A to let their personality shine through.
3. Celebrate Milestones and Meaningful Moments 🏆
Volunteers don’t always keep track of how many hours they’ve served, but you can. Celebrate anniversaries, milestones, and even first shifts. These are the moments that build momentum.
Did someone help out at every event this quarter? Reach 25 hours? Volunteer for the very first time? That’s worth recognizing.
Even a simple email, social post, or card can make someone feel like their time truly mattered.
4. Host a Volunteer Appreciation Event 🎉
It doesn’t have to be big or formal to make an impact. A small in-person gathering, a virtual thank-you call, or even a casual hangout can go a long way.
Include a few stories, some lighthearted fun, and a genuine thank-you from your team. Whether it's a slideshow, shared memories, or a little token of appreciation, the goal is to bring people together and let them know they’re valued.
5. Give Small, Thoughtful Gifts 🎁
Sometimes a simple gift says what words can't. A branded mug, a handwritten card, or a meaningful keepsake can serve as a reminder of the difference your volunteers make.
The key here is thoughtfulness. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It just has to feel intentional.
6. Offer Ways to Grow and Take the Lead 🌱
Appreciation isn’t just about thank-yous. It’s also about creating space for volunteers to grow. Ask for their input. Invite them to lead a project or help plan an event. Offer training if it fits your mission.
When volunteers feel like part of the team, they stay connected and show up with even more energy.
7. Keep the Conversation Going 📬
Don’t let the connection end when the event does. Stay in touch through short impact updates, behind-the-scenes notes, or even a quick check-in.
Let volunteers know what their time helped make possible. A message that says, “Because of your support, 300 families received meals this weekend” brings everything full circle. It shows them they are not just helpers. They are the reason it’s all working.
💛 Final Thoughts
Volunteers already believe in your mission. When you take the time to show them that you believe in them too, you build something stronger than support. You build lasting relationships.
The time you spend showing appreciation is time well spent. Not just in April, but throughout the year.
Looking for more ways to build meaningful connections with your community? Visit Kindest Academy for free tools, resources, and inspiration to help you grow.
