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June 03, 2008

Turning Volunteers Into Donors

New York Cares is taking an unusual approach in its efforts to convert some of its 36,000 volunteers into regular donors.

The organization, which matches volunteers with hands-on projects in New York schools, social-service groups, and other charities, has a series of events called “Dare to Cares” in which it invites volunteers to learn more about New York Cares’ work.

“We find that many volunteers know their ‘corner’ of our work, but not the full breadth or depth,” said Gary Bagley, the organization’s associate executive director, in an online discussion with Chronicle readers.

The charity is also reversing the process by creating projects designed to turn its donors into volunteers.

“We’re finding that these projects are “hooking” our donors tremendously,” Mr. Bagley said. “Either way, it appears that maintaining contact with the ‘volunteer-turned-donor’ or ‘donor turned volunteer’ is the key.”

To learn more ways to build relationships with volunteers, read the transcript of the Chronicle’s live discussion

Has your organization been successful in persuading volunteers to become donors? Click on the comments link below this post to share your thoughts.

— Peter Panepento

Tuesday June 3, 2008 | Permalink

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