Course Description

Focusing on issues of interest to animal welfare managers who work with volunteer programs, this course specifically targets how to reduce problems and increase the contribution of volunteers to the work of their organization.

This 4-week course is part of the Volunteer Management Certificate Program.

Course topics include:

• The Human Animal: volunteers come to the program with a wide variety of life experiences and personalities. When mixed with the challenges of animal welfare work, some survive, some thrive, and others crash. We will look at crash prevention and damage control through screening and promotion strategies.
• Communicating at the Crossroads: redirecting a volunteer to the right track. Deciding if and when a “turning point” conversation is needed. Negotiating the best “next steps” for all concerned.
• Career Path for the Volunteer: Some volunteers are happy “blooming where they’re planted” while others want to advance to different or more challenging jobs. How do we lay the groundwork for a career path for ambitious volunteers?
• Superstar Volunteers: In any group of volunteers, a few will stand out. They are the ones who can always be counted on, do extra without being asked, and are usually a pleasure to work with. What’s the formula for growing a superstar? How can we develop more of them? How do we support their continued success without “exploiting” them?

Class Format: Online

There are no scheduled lecture times; instead, you log on at your convenience to participate in weekly discussions and submit assignments. Expect to spend at least 2-4 hours per week reading materials, completing assignments, and discussing issues.