I’m speaking from the perspective of a career volunteer leader in higher education, non-profit work and church….

Assess ANNUALLY whether your volunteers are enthusiastic about continuing their work to fuel your organization’s mission. Do not assume they are. Some people are parked in positions because they like the title, the ability to do the bare minimum or because no one else is interested. That’s unhealthy for an organization. It has a detrimental impact on morale, too.

Questions to ask:

1. Do you still feel as passionate about this work as you did in the beginning?
2. What fuels your enthusiasm for this work?
3. Are you grooming/training/mentoring anyone who can support you and/or take over? Anyone you see potential in?
4. What discourages you about this work? As a leader, how can I help?
5. What motivates you?