Calendar of Events
Events in the month of September 2026
If you are not yet an AL!VE member, you are welcome to attend the first session, but you must join as an AL!VE member to attend the study group. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@volunteeralive.org. Let's get that CVA!
You will learn:
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.
Did you know 72% of recruiters check LinkedIn before hiring — and "Board Member" is a searchable title, while "Volunteer" isn't? In this workshop, Jordanya Reeves breaks down why nonprofit board service isn't just community involvement — it's a career strategy.
You'll learn how to:
If you are not yet an AL!VE member, you are welcome to attend the first session, but you must join as an AL!VE member to attend the study group. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@volunteeralive.org. Let's get that 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.
Volunteer Services Manager
Naples Botanical Garden
Every volunteer coordinator eventually faces this challenge. Uncomfortable conversations are a part of our role managing volunteer groups, and while they are necessary, they can also be stressful and emotional for those involved. Learning how to navigate these situations will empower volunteer managers to face these moments with confidence.
We will look at the pre-meeting, during-meeting, and post-meeting steps that will bring clarity and organization to these interactions. Participants will be presented with real-world scenarios that they can use as general guides to practice these conversations. With proper preparation, planning, and knowledge of the tips and tools available to you after this session, you will be able to address these situations respectfully and with confidence.
About Karen Pattison
Karen Pattison has spent the last eight years as the Volunteer Services Manager at Naples Botanical Garden in Naples, Florida, where she manages 200+ volunteers in Horticulture, Conservation, and Education. Along with a degree in psychology, Karen has also spent 25 years working with families and children in a preschool setting as a teacher and program director. When not at the Garden, she can usually be found at home with her husband, her books, and their houseful of rescue animals.
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/27029330352028?p=8FCoVYXs4CmqzNNbUg
Thursday, September 10
12:40-1:30pm EST (50 minutes)
In this 30 minute call, we will highlight:
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.
Hear from a panel of thought leaders in the volunteer engagement equity space about strategies for providing equity-related training for volunteers, followed by Q&A.
Please Note:
Unlike AL!VE Academies, the CARE Convening will not be recorded in order to foster a space for free discussion and exploration within a community agreement structure.
Free for Members
Non-Mebers $25.00
Facilitators:
Jenny Garver, CVA – Volunteer Coordinator, Macon County Conservation District
Callie Le'Au Courtright, CPM, CVA – Parks & Recreation Supervisor, City of Des Moines
Yvonne Dunphe, CVA – Volunteer Coordinator, Five Rivers MetroParks
2026 Meeting Dates:
January 21, March 25, May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18
Time:
1:00 PM EST | 12:00 PM CST | 11:00 AM MST | 10:00 AM PST
Meetings are held virtually.
Click here to join the community and participate in our upcoming meeting.
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.
If you are not yet an AL!VE member, you are welcome to attend the first session, but you must join as an AL!VE member to attend the study group. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@volunteeralive.org. Let's get that CVA!
If you are not yet an AL!VE member, you are welcome to attend the first session, but you must join as an AL!VE member to attend the study group. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@volunteeralive.org. Let's get that CVA!
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.
Click here to join the community and participate in our upcoming meeting.
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.
About Brooke Martinez
Brooke Martinez is the Director of Volunteer Services at Community Cooperative, overseeing volunteer engagement for hunger-relief programs throughout Lee County, including Meals on Wheels, the Community Market, Mobile Food Pantries, and FLIP. Since joining the organization in 2023, she has helped increase volunteer retention by 51%, improve program coordination, and expand community partnerships. Brooke is passionate about showing how even a few hours of service can make a meaningful difference for individuals and families across Southwest Florida.
Whether you have a question, want to share a success story, or just attend to listen and learn – all are welcome, including NAVPLG members and nonprofit partners who work alongside government agencies.
Facilitators:
Stephanie Sielaty, CVA – Volunteer Sarasota Program Coordinator, Sarasota County
Millicent Boykin – VP, Strategic Partnerships, OneStar Foundation (Texas Commission for Volunteerism & Service)
2026 Meeting Dates:
January 22, March 26, May 28, July 23, September 24, November 2*
Time:
1:30 PM ET | 12:30 PM CT | 11:30 AM MT | 10:30 AM PT
Note change in time for November meeting - 4:30 PM ET | 3:30 PM ET | 2:30 PM MT | 1:30 PM PT
Meetings are held virtually via Teams for 90 minutes. If you can only attend for part of the meeting, that is okay.
Click here to join the community and participate in our upcoming meeting.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting without being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here.
NOTE: NAVPLG members are welcome to join this COP without a membership as part of a collaborative effort with AL!VE.
All Volunteer Engagement Professionals are welcome to attend an industry social event, monthly at 2 PM Eastern for 45 minutes on the fourth Thursday of each month. 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!
Click on an event to learn more or scroll down to view all
Tuesday, September 1, 2026
| Date | Tentative Topics – any topic can be brought up in any session – we’re in charge 😉 |
| Feb 3 | Difficult Situations |
| Mar 3 | Planning for Appreciation |
| Apr 7 | Staff Buy-In |
| May 5 | The Tools We Use |
| Jun 2 | Schools/Unis |
| Jul 7 | Corporate Partnerships |
| Aug 4 | Volunteers for HAM |
| Sep 1 | Recognition |
| Oct 6 | Preparing for the Holiday RUSH |
| Nov 3 | Self-care/VM Day Celebrating US |
| Dec 1 | Managing Expectations |
| Jan 5 | NY Dreams |
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
The CVA study group is a member benefit from AL!VE open to all AL!VE members preparing for the Fall 2026 exam. The study group is led by facilitators who have recently earned their CVA certification and includes presenters from a variety of organizations and backgrounds. The group meets virtually for 9 one-hour sessions on Wednesdays at 12pm ET beginning July 22nd and ending on September 23rd. Interested in the study group? Complete this REGISTRATION FORM by July 20th.If you are not yet an AL!VE member, you are welcome to attend the first session, but you must join as an AL!VE member to attend the study group. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@volunteeralive.org. Let's get that CVA!
Thursday, September 3, 2026
Discover how Service Enterprise builds organizational capacity through strategic volunteer engagement. Learn how it transforms volunteer engagement into a powerful strategy for mission impact. This proven, research-backed approach helps organizations build capacity, strengthen sustainability, and achieve measurable outcomes by fully leveraging people power. Learn how investing in and adopting Service Enterprise creates stronger organizations, greater return on resources, and lasting community impact.You will learn:
- What Service Enterprise is
- How it works
- Who can benefit from Service Enterprise
- Benefits of Service Enterprise
- How to Get Involved
Thursday, September 3, 2026
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.
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
September AL!VE Academy, September 8, 2026, starting at 12:00 PM EST (60 Minutes)Did you know 72% of recruiters check LinkedIn before hiring — and "Board Member" is a searchable title, while "Volunteer" isn't? In this workshop, Jordanya Reeves breaks down why nonprofit board service isn't just community involvement — it's a career strategy.
You'll learn how to:
- Reframe your volunteer experience into resume-ready, credibility-building language
- Build the budget, risk, and strategic decision-making skills that open doors to executive roles
- Identify the right board opportunity, pitch yourself as a candidate, and spot red flags before you say yes
- Walk away with a 90-day action plan to land your first (or next) board seat
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
The CVA study group is a member benefit from AL!VE open to all AL!VE members preparing for the Fall 2026 exam. The study group is led by facilitators who have recently earned their CVA certification and includes presenters from a variety of organizations and backgrounds. The group meets virtually for 9 one-hour sessions on Wednesdays at 12pm ET beginning July 22nd and ending on September 23rd. Interested in the study group? Complete this REGISTRATION FORM by July 20th.If you are not yet an AL!VE member, you are welcome to attend the first session, but you must join as an AL!VE member to attend the study group. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@volunteeralive.org. Let's get that CVA!
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
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.
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Karen PattisonVolunteer Services Manager
Naples Botanical Garden
Every volunteer coordinator eventually faces this challenge. Uncomfortable conversations are a part of our role managing volunteer groups, and while they are necessary, they can also be stressful and emotional for those involved. Learning how to navigate these situations will empower volunteer managers to face these moments with confidence.
We will look at the pre-meeting, during-meeting, and post-meeting steps that will bring clarity and organization to these interactions. Participants will be presented with real-world scenarios that they can use as general guides to practice these conversations. With proper preparation, planning, and knowledge of the tips and tools available to you after this session, you will be able to address these situations respectfully and with confidence.
About Karen Pattison
Karen Pattison has spent the last eight years as the Volunteer Services Manager at Naples Botanical Garden in Naples, Florida, where she manages 200+ volunteers in Horticulture, Conservation, and Education. Along with a degree in psychology, Karen has also spent 25 years working with families and children in a preschool setting as a teacher and program director. When not at the Garden, she can usually be found at home with her husband, her books, and their houseful of rescue animals.
Thursday, September 10, 2026
National Networks COP Meetinghttps://teams.microsoft.com/meet/27029330352028?p=8FCoVYXs4CmqzNNbUg
Thursday, September 10
12:40-1:30pm EST (50 minutes)
Thursday, September 10, 2026
AL!VE Welcome Webinar Sessions will be held the second Thursday monthly at 1 PM Eastern for 30 minutes. In this 30 minute call, we will highlight:
- Member benefits
- Resources & where to find them
- Association goals for 2026
- Discuss what's happening in the field on a regional or national level
- Bring your own topic - have a question you need to discuss? We're happy to connect.
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
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.
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
CARE Convening: Engaging Volunteers to Co-Create Spaces of BelongingHear from a panel of thought leaders in the volunteer engagement equity space about strategies for providing equity-related training for volunteers, followed by Q&A.
- Joshua Rodgers, Habitat for Humanity International, Community & Mission Engagement Manager
- Brittni Coe, CVA, The Dallas Holocaust & Human Rights Museum, Volunteer Coordinator
- Becky Blumer, CVA, Multnomah County Public Library & CCVA Board Member, Volunteer Services Manager
- Sarah Delepine, Multnomah County Community Justice, Internship & Volunteer Programs Manager
Please Note:
Unlike AL!VE Academies, the CARE Convening will not be recorded in order to foster a space for free discussion and exploration within a community agreement structure.
Free for Members
Non-Mebers $25.00
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
The Peer to Peer Meet Up is a networking opportunity for local association
leadership. Our next Meet Up will be on September 15 at 2 pm Eastern
Members of the Local Associations Committee will facilitate discussion about the challenges local association leadership face, brainstorm on solutions, connect peers to peers, etc.
Please register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/G3IQpmQSRHuk_JoyXNg15A
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Join fellow volunteer engagement professionals working in urban and rural parks, botanical gardens, recreation programs, and nature preserves. This Community of Practice provides an informal, supportive space to exchange resources, ideas, and best practices. Whether you're seeking advice or sharing insights, you’ll find open discussion and a welcoming community. Bring your lunch, brunch, or favorite beverage and join the conversation! Not sure if this group is the right fit? Come anyway—everyone is welcome.Facilitators:
Jenny Garver, CVA – Volunteer Coordinator, Macon County Conservation District
Callie Le'Au Courtright, CPM, CVA – Parks & Recreation Supervisor, City of Des Moines
Yvonne Dunphe, CVA – Volunteer Coordinator, Five Rivers MetroParks
2026 Meeting Dates:
January 21, March 25, May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18
Time:
1:00 PM EST | 12:00 PM CST | 11:00 AM MST | 10:00 AM PST
Meetings are held virtually.
Click here to join the community and participate in our upcoming meeting.
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.
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
The CVA study group is a member benefit from AL!VE open to all AL!VE members preparing for the Fall 2026 exam. The study group is led by facilitators who have recently earned their CVA certification and includes presenters from a variety of organizations and backgrounds. The group meets virtually for 9 one-hour sessions on Wednesdays at 12pm ET beginning July 22nd and ending on September 23rd. Interested in the study group? Complete this REGISTRATION FORM by July 20th.If you are not yet an AL!VE member, you are welcome to attend the first session, but you must join as an AL!VE member to attend the study group. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@volunteeralive.org. Let's get that CVA!
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Come talk about what AmeriCorps Seniors has been presenting during the last month along with asking for any help in deal with an issue from your program.Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Are you interested in presenting at AAM's 2027 Conference in Houston, TX, but need help shaping your idea? Or do you have the perfect idea but are still looking for the right partner? Then join AAMV for our September Community of Practice session where our President, Brandi Shawn-Chaparro, will quickly review a few tips for submitting a successful conference pitch before opening the floor to discussing your ideas and finding other like-minded volunteer professionals. AAM Conference proposals are due on September 21. Let's make sure that you have the best proposal possible.Thursday, September 17, 2026
Join us for our next AL!VE Volunteer Information Session. Learn how volunteering with AL!VE supports leaders of volunteers nationwide, builds a stronger sector, and offers you a meaningful way to contribute your expertise. Discover roles that match your interests, meet fellow changemakers, and take the first step toward a more connected and impactful year.
Make 2026 the year you invest in community!
Click Here to RegisterWednesday, September 23, 2026
The CVA study group is a member benefit from AL!VE open to all AL!VE members preparing for the Fall 2026 exam. The study group is led by facilitators who have recently earned their CVA certification and includes presenters from a variety of organizations and backgrounds. The group meets virtually for 9 one-hour sessions on Wednesdays at 12pm ET beginning July 22nd and ending on September 23rd. Interested in the study group? Complete this REGISTRATION FORM by July 20th.If you are not yet an AL!VE member, you are welcome to attend the first session, but you must join as an AL!VE member to attend the study group. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@volunteeralive.org. Let's get that CVA!
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Whether you want to move up, leave your current job, switch careers or were recently laid off and looking for your next job, join us to network, vent, share stories and encourage each other along this journey.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.
Click here to join the community and participate in our upcoming meeting.
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.
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Are you wanting to grow your volunteer program to expand beyond individual volunteers? Engage more with civic groups and help secure more corporate sponsorship? Do you have trouble getting buy in from fellow colleagues that help create the group experience? Take a deep drive with Community Cooperative's Volunteer services team to see how they have developed their robust group volunteer standard operating procedures and best practices. About Brooke Martinez
Brooke Martinez is the Director of Volunteer Services at Community Cooperative, overseeing volunteer engagement for hunger-relief programs throughout Lee County, including Meals on Wheels, the Community Market, Mobile Food Pantries, and FLIP. Since joining the organization in 2023, she has helped increase volunteer retention by 51%, improve program coordination, and expand community partnerships. Brooke is passionate about showing how even a few hours of service can make a meaningful difference for individuals and families across Southwest Florida.
Thursday, September 24, 2026
Join peers who lead and support volunteer efforts across all levels of government - local, state, and federal - for an engaging, informal Community of Practice. This is a relaxed, supportive space to explore the unique opportunities and challenges of running volunteer initiatives in public-sector environments, including compliance, risk management, cross-department collaboration, and community impact. We will share ideas, exchange resources, review what’s working (and what’s not), and discuss the real-world challenges and successes of managing a volunteer program within a government space.Whether you have a question, want to share a success story, or just attend to listen and learn – all are welcome, including NAVPLG members and nonprofit partners who work alongside government agencies.
Facilitators:
Stephanie Sielaty, CVA – Volunteer Sarasota Program Coordinator, Sarasota County
Millicent Boykin – VP, Strategic Partnerships, OneStar Foundation (Texas Commission for Volunteerism & Service)
2026 Meeting Dates:
January 22, March 26, May 28, July 23, September 24, November 2*
Time:
1:30 PM ET | 12:30 PM CT | 11:30 AM MT | 10:30 AM PT
Note change in time for November meeting - 4:30 PM ET | 3:30 PM ET | 2:30 PM MT | 1:30 PM PT
Meetings are held virtually via Teams for 90 minutes. If you can only attend for part of the meeting, that is okay.
Click here to join the community and participate in our upcoming meeting.
Communities of Practice are an AL!VE member benefit; however, anyone is welcome to attend their first meeting without being a member. Email info@volunteeralive.org for a free trial. You can learn more about membership here.
NOTE: NAVPLG members are welcome to join this COP without a membership as part of a collaborative effort with AL!VE.
Thursday, September 24, 2026
All are welcome to join our monthly networking industry social for anyone involved in Volunteer Engagement.All Volunteer Engagement Professionals are welcome to attend an industry social event, monthly at 2 PM Eastern for 45 minutes on the fourth Thursday of each month. 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!
We welcome any event related to volunteer engagement professionals!
To submit your event, click on the link below.
To submit your event, click on the link below.