Model Volunteering Program: Chicago Pet Rescue

The Challenge

Outside of the volunteer orientation, on-going training for volunteers is usually one-on-one. Volunteers shadow staff to learn their duties or rely on the volunteer coordinator for step-by-step instructions on how to handle a specific event or task. This training can be draining for staff, especially when resources are limited, and volunteer turnover is high.

With some people volunteering only once a year and some several times a week, how do you keep volunteers all at the same knowledge level? How do you keep them excited about volunteering and create an environment where they are ready-to-go at a moment’s notice?

The Solution

Instead of demonstrating tasks and repeating the same policies and procedures over and over again with each volunteer, Chicago Pet Rescue is using modern technology to their advantage.

With a few experienced volunteers in front of and behind the camera, Chicago Pet Rescue has launched I Pet U — an online video training program that shows new volunteers how to perform everyday jobs as well as more specialized tasks, like volunteering at an offsite adoption event.

Here’s one example of how the program works. When a volunteer signs up for an offsite adoption event, Chicago Pet Rescue sends them a link to a video on how to set up the event, from information on where to sign in when they arrive to how to set up the area and handle the adoptable pets. Each video is designed to be short and easy-to-follow.

“No matter how often or how little people volunteers, everyone receives the video,” says Elena Tanta, Executive Director for Chicago Pet Rescue. “Watching others perform their volunteer roles with explanations as to how to complete the tasks is an instant refresher course for every volunteer.”

The Results?

• Saves time. This program has saved the Chicago Pet Rescue staff considerable time from training volunteers.
• Provides step-by-step instructions. By letting people watch actual volunteers
  at work, future volunteers have instant and on-going access to step-by-step instructions on how to complete a task or work a special event.
• Encourages future volunteer involvement. Because some of these videos are posted on their website, watching these videos may inspire current volunteers
  to volunteer in other areas of the shelter or may attract potential volunteers to join the team. In fact, the number of volunteers has almost doubled since the program began earlier this year.
• Increases general awareness. Because some of the videos are online, the general public also can view them and see what’s happening behind the scenes.
• Experienced volunteers get to show off their talents. By using actual volunteers in the videos, current volunteers stay excited, more engaged and active with the organization.