180. 3 Smart Ways to Design Volunteer Service Awards

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson explores smart, research-backed frameworks for designing meaningful volunteer service awards. Instead of relying on traditional recognition tactics, she shows how to align awards with what truly drives volunteers—their motivations, timelines, and the impact they create. 

Tobi introduces fresh ideas such as immediate recognition and milestone-based acknowledgements, while also breaking down six proven motivational factors that inspire volunteers. Packed with actionable strategies, this episode is a must for any organization looking to elevate its volunteer appreciation efforts and strengthen long-term engagement. 

Full show notes: 180. 3 Smart Ways to Design Volunteer Service Awards 

Volunteer Service Awards - Episode Highlights 

• [01:39] - Diving into Volunteer Appreciation 
• [03:13] - Strategic Volunteer Service Awards Frameworks 
• [07:01] - Aligning Awards with Volunteer Motivations 
• [21:53] - Recognizing Volunteers Through Timelines 
• [29:34] - Designing Awards Around Volunteer Impact 
• [33:16] - The Power of Handwritten Thank You Notes 

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report  
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab  
• Volunteer Management Fundamentals Live!  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #176: Beyond Pizza Parties: Innovative Appreciation Ideas for Volunteers 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #024: The Best Volunteer Recognition is a Well-Run Program  
•  VolunteerPro Volunteer Thank You Letter Sample Cheat Sheet  

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at WeCare@VolPro.net.