Volunteers usually join environmental programs for their own reasons - not for the organisation's reasons. Having one's motivations satisfied is what people usually want to get out of volunteering. A reason for asking why people chose to volunteer with your organisation is to help ensure that some of their reasons will be met through their participation in the program.

Keeping volunteers motivated needs to be a high priority when developing and operating your program. Motivation can be contagious - be enthusiastic yourself and encourage achievements and new ideas. Be friendly but firm - avoid unnecessary bureaucracy and "management speak". Be reliable and organised - don't waste people's time. Be mindful of making changes that will remove people's motivating factors (For example, if people enjoy the social aspect of stopping for a cup of tea in the middle of a work day, don't change the ritual). Practice good customer service - reply to volunteer requests promptly and follow through on requests (For example, if rubbish has been dumped at a volunteer site, ensure that the necessary action is taken within a reasonable amount of time). Accept people's limitations and avoid volunteer burn out

Recognising volunteers Information Sheet www.volunteeringaustralia.org National Volunteer Week (May) www.volunteeringaustralia.org International Volunteer Day (December) www.volunteeringaustralia.org New Study reveals what makes volunteers stick Article inAustralian Landcare, March 2004, page 58.