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!
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...
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...
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.
AL!VE will be hosting a virtual celebration brunch and encourages you to invite your teams and supervisors to attend. We will have an hour full of purpose, fun, and recognition!
We proudly announce the celebration of International Volunteer Managers Day (IVMDay) 2025, observed every year on November 5. This year's global theme, “Beâ¯BOLD. Makeâ¯Change.”, encourages volunteer managers, volunteers, volunteerism enthusiasts, and community members to advocate for meaningful change, embrace innovation, and strengthen the impact of volunteer programs in communities across the country.
This is the meeting for the AL!VE Transportation Community of Practice. This meeting is open for AL!VE members and all volunteer engagement professionals (first one is free, the subsequent will be for members only).
The call will last one hour and will focus specifically on volunteer programs with transportation as a volunteer role.
After registering, you'll be emailed a Teams Meeting Link
We look forward to connecting with you! *note* When you register, you will be automatically be registered for all the future COP dates (listed below) and reminders will be sent - the COP will use the same zoom link every meeting.
âYou may opt out by emailing manager@volunteeralive.org
Calls will be held on All times Noon Central, 1 PM Eastern
2025 dates: February 12, May 7, August 6, November 5 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...
The "Financial Management in Volunteer Administration" workshop is an hour-long online learning session designed to enhance participants' understanding of key financial management concepts relevant to volunteer programs. The workshop covers essential learning objectives, including the basics of financial management, the application of cost principles to budgeting, the importance of diversifying funding sources, and the effective valuation and utilization of in-kind contributions. The agenda includes an introduction to the role of financial management and a discussion of key concepts such as cost principles and budgeting with an interactive activity for the practical application of these principles. There is time set aside following the presentation for Q&A to address participant inquiries.
The Speaker:
Jamie S. Dent, MCL, MHA (and a former CVA), is a dedicated professional specializing in research administration, leadership, and financial management within the nonprofit sector. Currently serving as the Research Operations Director in the Department of Emergency Medicine at Stanford University, Jamie oversees active research awards to emergency medicine physicians (faculty) exceeding $40 million annually, providing strategic leadership to administrative staff and enhancing the research administration infrastructure.
Jamie served as a Senior AmeriCorps Program Officer for Volunteer Tennessee, where they directed a comprehensive grant making process, managing over $4.5 million annually in federal funds for impactful community-based programs. His experience in financial resource management was further demonstrated as the Administrative Services Manager for the Department of Health in Tennessee, where they successfully wrote and directed grant application processes totaling over $19 million annually and co-wrote the first funded opioid substance use disorder program grant for the state.
With a strong background in financial oversight, grant development, and capacity-building training for nonprofit agencies, Jamie is committed to fostering sustainable operational efficiencies and maximizing the impact of social initiatives.
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...
Join us for a chat about passion and calling featuring Adam Janes, CVA — former religious leader and now a volunteer engagement professional with nine years of experience. Through building and rebuilding communities, careers, and worldviews, Adam has come to see volunteer engagement not just as a job, but as a true calling and a lifelong journey of learning what healthy community truly means.
Adam will draw on some illustrations, not for profit history, macro narratives and personal experiences to show how your work is more than a cog in the nonprofit wheel. It’s a force for generosity, connection, and care within your organisation and beyond. He will make the case for why you have one of the greatest jobs in the world and helping convince others of its importance is a challenge best built through building a passion for the profession.
The session will be moderated by Nicole R.Smith, CVA a leading voice in volunteer engagement, who will guide the conversation and pose thought-provoking questions along the way.
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 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.