Join your peers for discussions for those who manage food banks, hunger organizations, or nutrition programs. This COP will meet Monthly on the first Tuesday @ 3 PM Eastern.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here.
Take the next step in your career as a leader of volunteers and become certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA).
Leaders in non-profit organizations and community groups increasingly understand that volunteers can be a critical resource for delivering on a mission. Effective people management and community engagement is imperative – whether they be paid or unpaid. As a result, employers expect that those individuals tasked with mobilizing and coordinating volunteer engagement demonstrate a thorough knowledge of effective practices and an understanding of how to apply that knowledge in support of real-world organizational priorities. more info...
Better Impact presents:
The Journey from Program to Strategy: Organizationally and Professionally
Date: Wednesday, September 3, 2025 Time: 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) / 1:00pm – 2:00pm Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
Presented by: Beth Steinhorn, Sarah Sukhram, CVA and Wendy Johnson, MPA, CVA
While engaging volunteers can be a powerful strategy for organizations to fulfill mission, most still position it as a program rather than a strategy. Join this panel discussion to hear how colleagues in the field have successfully shifted their organization’s approach from program to strategy, using solid data, change management, innovations, technology, and more. Plus, gain insights on how each has also embraced their roles as strategic leaders. Come with questions and leave with inspiration!
What you'll learn:
How to identify when it’s time to shift from a programmatic to a strategic volunteer engagement approach
Real-life examples of what a strategic volunteer engagement model looks like in action
Tips for influencing leadership and gaining internal support for change
The role of technology and innovation in driving transformation
How your own professional growth can support organizational change
Practical advice for starting or accelerating your strategic engagement journey
Join the conversation!
This dynamic session is designed for nonprofit leaders and volunteer managers looking to reposition volunteer engagement as a strategic asset—both organizationally and professionally. Don’t miss the chance to learn from and connect with leaders who are redefining what volunteer engagement can look like. Bring your questions and get ready to leave inspired!
If you recently lost your job or feel like you have reached the ceiling at your current organization and are looking to explore opportunities, this COP is for you. AL!VE’s Career Transition Community of Practice is a supportive space for volunteer engagement professionals in career transition, offering encouragement, networking, and connections to help you find new opportunities through our community.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here. more info...
Education & Reading Programs Community of Practice is a group of professionals with the interest of improving reading levels for youth and adults. We convene bimonthly to offer support, share best practices, provide a safe space for discussion, and networking.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here. more info...
This is an AL!VE Communities of Practice for those involved in managing volunteers or programs in health care settings such as hospitals, hospice, Blood Banks, Health care facilities, long-term health centers, etc. Health care can have some unique situations, requirements, and environments for volunteers! Join your colleagues in discussion about your questions, situations, needs, and share your experiences with others as well. Let’s support each other!
Upon registering, we will email you the meeting log in information (and a reminder, too).
(All times Noon E)
2025: Jan 9, Mar 13, May 8, Jul 10, Sept 11, Nov 13
January topic: The Cost of Volunteering
March topic: Volunteer Appreciation Week
May topic: Summer Student Opportunities
July topic: Including DEI in Volunteer Onboarding
September topic: Terminating a Volunteer
November topic: Making the Worst Volunteer Role More Appealing
For more information about this COP, please contact Marie Howell, Health Care COP facilitator.
Look forward to seeing you there!
To learn more about AL!VE Community of Practice, visit our website.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. After your first meeting, you must join as a member to attend subsequent meetings. Learn more about membership here. more info...
Board service is a chance to grow personally and professionally, to develop skills, gain unique experience, and make lasting connections with a team of other passionate and motivated professionals throughout the country. Becoming a board member is an opportunity to share your professional knowledge, expertise, and passion to help AL!VE craft and forge the future of the profession.
It is our hope that our Board will be as diverse as the communities our members serve, with the perspectives, skills, and experience needed to enact our strategic plan and advance our mission.
If you are passionate about AL!VE’s mission, click here to register for an information session to learn more about becoming an AL!VE Board Member.
All are welcome to join our quarterly networking social for anyone involved in Volunteer Engagement.
All Volunteer Engagement Professionals are welcome to attend a networking social event, quarterly at 4 PM Eastern for 45 minutes. Feel free to leave early or come late as your schedule allows. Connect and network with your peers for live discussions - ask questions and let us know what's on your mind!
All times 4:00-4:45 PM Eastern
March 28
June 17
September 12
December 4
Click here to register and join us for door prizes, networking and camaraderie! Don't miss it!
Open to all in the field of volunteer engagement. We look forward to seeing you! more info...
Board service is a chance to grow personally and professionally, to develop skills, gain unique experience, and make lasting connections with a team of other passionate and motivated professionals throughout the country. Becoming a board member is an opportunity to share your professional knowledge, expertise, and passion to help AL!VE craft and forge the future of the profession.
It is our hope that our Board will be as diverse as the communities our members serve, with the perspectives, skills, and experience needed to enact our strategic plan and advance our mission.
In this unique on-demand course and live coaching experience, you will learn the essential “what's working now” strategies to confidently attract, grow, and lead a highly committed volunteer team in just 5 weeks (without the frustration, endless worry, and trial-and-error tactics that slow you down). Reverse the tide of volunteer attrition and get ready to crush your nonprofit's most ambitious goals with a solid plan for engaging committed volunteer talent.
If your organization relies on volunteers for its ongoing operations, this comprehensive course is for you. It is specifically designed to help solve the biggest challenges for new volunteer coordinators and get answers to these questions …
- Where do I find the right volunteers for my nonprofit?
- How do I increase volunteer satisfaction and reduce turnover?
- How do I track and communicate the impact volunteers are making?
- Where should I focus my limited time and energy to get the best results?
- What can I do to help my co-workers understand that committed enthusiastic volunteers are so much more than free labor?
Learn the Essential Frameworks for Attracting and Engaging Enthusiastic, Committed Volunteers with Less Stress and Greater Confidence
What you'll get:
- Five live group coaching sessions to get answers & advice directly from an expert (5 full hours)
- Access to the pop-up community for the duration of the program
- Lifetime access to the course, & all future updates, for as long as it exists
- Half-page course slides for note taking
- Worksheets, checklists, swipe files, & guides to convert learning into action
- Comment sections in each lesson where students can post questions & get quick answers directly from the instructor
- An automatic completion certificate (worth 10 CVA Hours) at the moment all coursework is complete
Don't miss out! Register Today!
As an affiliate partner with VolunteerPro, when you use this affiliate link to enroll, AL!VE may receive a commission to help support our organization at no additional cost to you. Thank you for helping to advance the Volunteer Engagement profession! more info...
Host Site registration for the 2025 Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference is officially open! This year’s theme, Show Them the Money, is designed to help you confidently communicate the financial impact of volunteer engagement to leadership — with practical tools, proven strategies, and expert insights. The conference takes place October 28–29, 2025, and as a Host Site, you’ll bring your local network together a day of learning, connection, and inspiration. Click here to learn more about becoming a host site at our next info session!
This virtual Community of Practice supports volunteer engagement professionals managing programs in and across rural communities. These monthly peer-to-peer sessions address some of the challenges that come with operating in geographic areas with lower population numbers and that are located outside of more suburban and urban areas. Members use these sessions to troubleshoot issues, to give and receive support, and to share strategies, best practices, and resources for effective volunteer program management.
2025 Meetings will be held (All times 2 PM Eastern):
January 21, February 18, March 18,
April 15, May 20, June 17,
July 15, August 19, September 16,
October 21, November 18, December 16
COP's are an exclusive AL!VE member benefit. Anyone is welcome to attend the first COP meeting, but after the first meeting we ask you become a member. Learn more here.
This COP is designed to include a broad range of topics regarding urban and rural parks, botanical gardens, parks, and nature preserves. The objective of this COP is to connect volunteer engagement professionals within these organizations to share resources and best practices. This informal venue encourages open discussions for anyone seeking or offering advice in tackling the unique challenges facing volunteer engagement professionals in the Parks & Rec field. Bring your lunch/brunch and beverage! If you're not sure if you fit with us, please join us! This COP is facilitated by Jenny Garver, Macon Courty Conservation District Volunteer Coordinator, Callie Le'Au Courtright, CPM, CVA, City of Des Moines Parks and Recreation Supervisor, and Yvonne Dunphe, Five Rivers Metroparks, Volunteer Coordinator.
2025 Dates are January 15, March 19, May 21, July 16, September 17, and November 19.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here. more info...
Take the next step in your career as a leader of volunteers and become Certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA)
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) / 10:00am - 11:00am Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Presented by: Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration (CCVA)
Do you work with volunteers?
Do you want to feel more confident in your role as a volunteer engagement professional?
Do you seek visibility and credibility within your role, agency, and profession?
Earning your CVA (Certified in Volunteer Administration) – an international professional certification in the field of volunteer resources management – may be just what’s needed in your professional journey.
Leaders in non-profit organizations and community groups increasingly understand that volunteers can be a critical resource for delivering on a mission. Effective people management and community engagement are imperative – whether they be paid or unpaid. As a result, employers expect that those individuals tasked with mobilizing and coordinating volunteer engagement demonstrate a thorough knowledge of effective practices and an understanding of how to apply that knowledge in support of real-world organizational priorities.
In this webinar you’ll learn:
About the CCVA
Why certification may be right for you
How the exam is created
What the application, preparation, and certification process is
When you will be ready
Join this info session to learn more about what it takes to become a CVA.
This COP is for those managing an AmeriCorps Seniors program(s) as a grantee or sponsor. This includes Foster Grandparent Program (FGP), RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program), and SCP (Senior Companion Program. Join us as we are a sounding board for sharing best practices and resources that are unique to federal grants and the older volunteers we work alongside.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here. more info...
Museums & Cultural Institutions Community of Practice:
This is an AL!VE Communities of Practice for those managing volunteers in museums, galleries, cultural and arts centers. Join us as we discuss and share insights and experiences that we are all having in the arts education/enrichment communities. COVID has posed certain challenges and changes for us all so let’s rely on each other for ideas and inspiration! This will be a time for networking, sharing ideas, asking questions, and brainstorming with your peers. This COP is hosted by AAMV (American Association of Museuem Volunteers) members; all AAMV members may attend. *Note, new dates & times*
2025: Jan 13 (only one at noon EST), Mar 19, May 21, July 16, September 17, November 19- all dates 4pm Eastern
COPs are an AL!VE member benefit.
Not a Member yet? Click here to join. Want to try before you buy? Email info@volunteeralive.org to try your first session free!
National Networks COP:
Those working at a national level face different issues than those operating on a local or regional level. Often national level leaders are engaged in big picture, strategic or policy decision-making. Sometimes those operating at a national level don’t work directly with volunteers, but rather help empower others in their organizations who do. Join the discussion to connect and learn from others working nationally. We invite anyone looking to brainstorm around the unique issues facing volunteer leaders on a national level. This COP group will be a chance to network, share expertise, ask questions, and solve problems with your peers.
All times 2:30 Eastern
Jan 27, Mar 24, May 26, July 28, Sept 22, Nov 20
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit;
Not a member?Click here to join AL!VE. Want to try before you buy? Email info@volunteer AL!VE to try out your first session free. more info...
Take the next step in your career as a leader of volunteers and become certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA).
Leaders in non-profit organizations and community groups increasingly understand that volunteers can be a critical resource for delivering on a mission. Effective people management and community engagement is imperative – whether they be paid or unpaid. As a result, employers expect that those individuals tasked with mobilizing and coordinating volunteer engagement demonstrate a thorough knowledge of effective practices and an understanding of how to apply that knowledge in support of real-world organizational priorities. more info...
Am I Making the Right Decision? The Role of Ethics in Volunteer Engagement
Date: Thursday, 2 October, 2025 Time: 11:00am - 12:00pm Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST)
Presented by: Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration (CCVA)
We all encounter ethical dilemmas in our daily work with and for community, but rarely do organisations focus on ethics related to volunteer engagement. This session provides an opportunity for practitioners to understand the difference between personal, organisational and professional ethics. The core values and principles identified by the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration (CCVA) will be shared.
You'll Learn:
A process for ethical decision-making that can be applied in any situation (and then practiced using real-life scenarios related to volunteers).
Several specific strategies for increasing awareness of ethics within an organisation and helping both volunteers and staff become more effective at handling ethical dilemmas.
If you recently lost your job or feel like you have reached the ceiling at your current organization and are looking to explore opportunities, this COP is for you. AL!VE’s Career Transition Community of Practice is a supportive space for volunteer engagement professionals in career transition, offering encouragement, networking, and connections to help you find new opportunities through our community.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here. more info...
Join your peers for discussions for those who manage food banks, hunger organizations, or nutrition programs. This COP will meet Monthly on the first Tuesday @ 3 PM Eastern.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here.
Take the next step in your career as a leader of volunteers and become certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA).
Leaders in non-profit organizations and community groups increasingly understand that volunteers can be a critical resource for delivering on a mission. Effective people management and community engagement is imperative – whether they be paid or unpaid. As a result, employers expect that those individuals tasked with mobilizing and coordinating volunteer engagement demonstrate a thorough knowledge of effective practices and an understanding of how to apply that knowledge in support of real-world organizational priorities. more info...
Meetings will be held bimonthly (every 2 months). Following meetings will be 10 AM Pacific, 1 PM Eastern:
2025: February 13, April 10, June 12, Aug 14, Oct 9, Dec 11
The COP - Animal Welfare is designed to include a broad range of animal welfare organizations such as animal shelters, rescue groups, foster-based programs, sanctuaries, direct care for animals, and humane education programs. The objective of this COP is to connect volunteer engagement professionals within these organizations to share resources and best practices. This informal venue encourages open discussions for anyone seeking or offering advice in tackling the unique challenges facing volunteer leaders in the animal welfare field.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here.
Let's talk about Government volunteer programs. This community of practice discusses the challenge and successes of operating a volunteer program within a government structure.
All times 2 PM Eastern for 1 hour.
2025: Feb 13, Apr 10, Jun 12, Aug 14, Oct 9, Dec 11
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. NAVPLG members can attend anytime for free as part of our partnership
*note* When you register, you will automatically be registered for all the future COP dates (listed below) and reminders will be sent - the COP will use the same zoom link.
âYou may opt out by emailing manager@volunteeralive.org
Take the next step in your career as a leader of volunteers and become certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA).
Leaders in non-profit organizations and community groups increasingly understand that volunteers can be a critical resource for delivering on a mission. Effective people management and community engagement is imperative – whether they be paid or unpaid. As a result, employers expect that those individuals tasked with mobilizing and coordinating volunteer engagement demonstrate a thorough knowledge of effective practices and an understanding of how to apply that knowledge in support of real-world organizational priorities. more info...
Education & Reading Programs Community of Practice is a group of professionals with the interest of improving reading levels for youth and adults. We convene bimonthly to offer support, share best practices, provide a safe space for discussion, and networking.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here. more info...
This COP is for those managing an AmeriCorps Seniors program(s) as a grantee or sponsor. This includes Foster Grandparent Program (FGP), RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program), and SCP (Senior Companion Program. Join us as we are a sounding board for sharing best practices and resources that are unique to federal grants and the older volunteers we work alongside.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting with out being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here. more info...
Enhance your professional development and support the profession of volunteer engagement at the same time! Join us for an AL!VE New Volunteer Information Session! This session is your opportunity to learn more about AL!VE, our mission, and how you can get involved. Whether you’re interested in sharing your skills, learning new ones, or connecting with a community of like-minded professionals, we have opportunities for you! Don’t miss this chance to join a dynamic organization that supports leaders in volunteer engagement nationwide. We can’t wait to meet you and explore how we can make an impact together!
Take the next step in your career as a leader of volunteers and become certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA).
Leaders in non-profit organizations and community groups increasingly understand that volunteers can be a critical resource for delivering on a mission. Effective people management and community engagement is imperative – whether they be paid or unpaid. As a result, employers expect that those individuals tasked with mobilizing and coordinating volunteer engagement demonstrate a thorough knowledge of effective practices and an understanding of how to apply that knowledge in support of real-world organizational priorities. more info...
This virtual Community of Practice supports volunteer engagement professionals managing programs in and across rural communities. These monthly peer-to-peer sessions address some of the challenges that come with operating in geographic areas with lower population numbers and that are located outside of more suburban and urban areas. Members use these sessions to troubleshoot issues, to give and receive support, and to share strategies, best practices, and resources for effective volunteer program management.
2025 Meetings will be held (All times 2 PM Eastern):
January 21, February 18, March 18,
April 15, May 20, June 17,
July 15, August 19, September 16,
October 21, November 18, December 16
COP's are an exclusive AL!VE member benefit. Anyone is welcome to attend the first COP meeting, but after the first meeting we ask you become a member. Learn more here.
As a Volunteer Engagement professional, you know the incredible value of your department, — but does your CEO? This year’s Hybrid Conference, Show Them the Money is designed to empower you, the volunteer engagement professional, to confidently showcase the tangible financial impact of your work. Whether you’re advocating for budget protection or program expansion, you’ll gain proven strategies, innovative perspectives, and practical tools to translate volunteer contributions into bottom-line results that grab leadership’s attention. Join us and learn how to turn volunteer engagement into a powerful financial story—because the numbers don’t just speak; they open doors.
The hybrid conference is the same content but shared on two different days to accommodate for varying time zones. Check the website for local host site registrations so can connect with others in your area!
Host Site Registrations open June 2
Early Bird Registration - $550
Regular Registration - $600
Individual Registration opens August 4
AL!VE Members $50
Non-Members $60
As a Volunteer Engagement professional, you know the incredible value of your department, — but does your CEO? This year’s Hybrid Conference, Show Them the Money is designed to empower you, the volunteer engagement professional, to confidently showcase the tangible financial impact of your work. Whether you’re advocating for budget protection or program expansion, you’ll gain proven strategies, innovative perspectives, and practical tools to translate volunteer contributions into bottom-line results that grab leadership’s attention. Join us and learn how to turn volunteer engagement into a powerful financial story—because the numbers don’t just speak; they open doors.
The hybrid conference is the same content but shared on two different days to accommodate for varying time zones. Check the website for local host site registrations so can connect with others in your area!
Host Site Registrations open June 2
Early Bird Registration - $550
Regular Registration - $600
Individual Registration opens August 4
AL!VE Members $50
Non-Members $60
Best Practice Tips for Defining and Managing the Relationship between Employees and Volunteers
Date: Wednesday, 30 October, 2025 Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT) / Melbourne Time
Presented by: Christine Spiers, Director & Consultant at Flutterbye
Often the lines between volunteering and employment can blur, putting organizations and people at risk.
In this webinar Christine will guide you through the importance of defining the volunteer and employee relationship and provide practical tips to mitigate the risks associated.
You'll discover:
Defining the employee and volunteer relationship: Why it’s important, the risks of not defining the relationship and how to mitigate these.
Best Practice Tips for Managing the relationship: Gain actionable tips and best practices for your own volunteer programs, including:
How to conduct a stakeholder analysis
What to include in Role Descriptions
How to develop a Volunteer Agreement
Training and support tips
Improvement opportunities
Don’t miss this chance to protect your organization and strengthen your volunteer program—reserve your spot today!
As a Volunteer Engagement professional, you know the incredible value of your department, — but does your CEO? This year’s Hybrid Conference, Show Them the Money is designed to empower you, the volunteer engagement professional, to confidently showcase the tangible financial impact of your work. Whether you’re advocating for budget protection or program expansion, you’ll gain proven strategies, innovative perspectives, and practical tools to translate volunteer contributions into bottom-line results that grab leadership’s attention. Join us and learn how to turn volunteer engagement into a powerful financial story—because the numbers don’t just speak; they open doors.