Alex Evans, Author at TeamKinetic

Author: Alex Evans Page 1 of 22

HVG Volunteer Leader of the Year Award 2025

On 21st July 2025

PRESS RELEASE FROM THE HERITAGE VOLUNTEERING GROUP

The Heritage Volunteering Group exists to enable the heritage sector to realise the potential of volunteering to transform organisations, lives, and communities.

Our Volunteer Leader of the Year Award, sponsored by TeamKinetic, celebrates the achievements of those who have made a difference and recognises innovative and outstanding examples of volunteering leadership and management within our sector.

Last year’s winner, Kate Powell, said on receiving the award:

“Receiving an award which recognises achievements in a role which I just love and for work that I am incredibly passionate about, is very exciting. I am so lucky to work with a team of talented colleagues both at the Science and Industry Museum and across SMG, who over the last six years have been integral in helping me to build a volunteer and placement programme with our local communities right at the centre of our ambitions.”
Kate Powell, Volunteer Manager at the Science & Industry Museum

Whether a paid or unpaid, Volunteer Coordinator, Supervisor or Manager, if you know someone who has made a real difference to their organisations or their volunteers, then we want to know about it. This year, the winner will receive a £100 gift card, including an hour’s consultation with Rob Jackson Consulting Ltd, and the runner-up will receive a £25 gift card.

The winner will be announced at our annual conference, Heritage Volunteering 2025, which is taking place online on 25-26 November. Heritage Volunteering ‘25 will focus on the role volunteering can play in transforming communities. It will feature a range of keynote speakers, workshops, and panel discussions. Tickets are on sale now at an early bird price of £30.

Applications are welcome from all areas of the heritage sector. The nomination form can be downloaded from the home page at heritagevolunteeringgroup.org.uk and should be returned to heritagevolunteeringgroup@gmail.com by 31st August 2025.

For further information, visit:

Other News: Tickets Now Available for Heritage Volunteering’25

We’re pleased to announce that tickets for the heritage sector’s flagship volunteering conference, sponsored by Investing in Volunteers, Heritage Volunteering’25, are now on sale via Eventbrite.

Taking place via Zoom on 25 November and 26 November, 9:30 to 13:15, the conference will explore the role that volunteering can play in transforming lives and communities. Our packed itinerary includes insightful keynotes, thought-provoking plenaries and engaging workshops designed to help leaders of volunteers develop and transform the work they do.

This year’s Keynote Speaker, Lisa Ollerhead, Director of the Association of Independent Museums, will explore the impact of the cutting edge Connected Communities project; whilst, Professor Martin Webber and Dr. Beth Casey, from the University of York, will discuss their research and the practical tools they have developed to help organisations build more inclusive volunteering programmes. If that wasn’t enough, attendees will have the chance to pick from 12 workshops ranging from creating communities of volunteering to creating a sense of belonging.

For more information about the Heritage Volunteering Group and the work we do to enable the heritage sector to realise the potential of volunteering to transform organisations, lives, and communities, visit www.heritagevolunteeringgroup.org.uk

Tickets

Early bird: £30 (available until Friday 24 October)
Standard £40 (available from Saturday 25 October till Monday)
Book tickets via Eventbrite here

Further Information

Email: heritagevolunteeringgroup@gmail.com
Website: www.heritagevolunteeringgroup.org.uk/
Investing in Volunteers: https://investinginvolunteers.co.uk/
Association of Independent Museum: aim-museums.co.uk/

For any questions or further information please contact the team at heritagevolunteeringgroup@gmail.com

Unlocking the Power of Volunteer Management: The Benefits of Joining the Association of Volunteer Managers (AVM)

By Alex Evans

On 16th July 2025

In Volunteer Management

Volunteer management is at the heart of many organisations, from charities to community groups, and effective leadership is crucial to ensuring both the individual and the organisation feel the full benefits. The Association of Volunteer Managers (AVM) connects, develops and empowers you to lead, support and manage volunteers effectively by offering a wealth of resources, learning and development and networking opportunities.

Here’s a closer look at the membership benefits that make AVM an invaluable asset for volunteer managers across the UK.

1. Development and Learning Opportunities

AVM places a strong emphasis on continuous learning and development. Members gain access to a variety of events designed to enhance skills and knowledge:

Discounted Access to Events and Conference: Members receive discounts on public peer learning events and the annual conference, ensuring they can engage with leading experts and stay updated on best practices in volunteer management.
Member-Only Events: Exclusive events such as member forums and free think-ins, these sessions provide a platform for in-depth discussions and learning among peers.

2. Mentoring and Networking

Building connections and learning from others’ experiences is vital in volunteer management:

Mentoring Programme: AVM’s mentoring initiative pairs experienced professionals with those seeking guidance, fostering personal and professional growth. This programme is exclusive to AVM members and opens twice a year.
AVM Connect: A facilitated networking scheme that matches members with peers to share experiences, challenges, and solutions, helping to build a supportive community. This is also exclusive to AVM members and runs 5-6 times a year.
Face-to-face meetings: AVM has established regional networking groups across the UK to facilitate in-person peer support.

3. Exclusive Resources and Content

Members have access to a treasure trove of resources to support their work:

AVM Replay: Members can access a series of short webcasts and recordings from past events, offering insights into innovative practices and thought leadership in the sector.

4. Advocacy and Representation

AVM serves as a collective voice for volunteer managers, advocating for the recognition and development of the profession:

Representation: Through its activities, AVM works to raise the profile of volunteer management and influence policy and practice in the sector.

Membership Options

Recognising the diverse nature of volunteer management, AVM offers flexible membership fees:

Individual Membership: Annual fees are based on salary, with reduced rates for those managing volunteers in a voluntary capacity.
Organisational Membership: Organisations can choose the Learning & Development package that best fits their size, ensuring all staff and volunteers benefit from AVM’s offerings.

Joining the Association of Volunteer Managers provides a comprehensive support system for those dedicated to leading and developing volunteer programmes. From professional development and networking to exclusive resources and advocacy, AVM equips its members with the tools and community needed to excel in volunteer management. Whether you’re an individual professional or part of an organisation, AVM offers a pathway to enhance your impact and contribute to the growth of volunteering across the UK.

Join AVM today to feel the full benefit of connecting with fellow leaders of volunteering to make change happen together.

You can find TeamKinetic on social media and listen to our podcast:

Twitter Facebook LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Podcast

Have you enjoyed using TeamKinetic? If you could leave us a review, we’d really appreciate it!

My First HVMN Conference Experience

By Alex Evans

On 11th April 2025

In Events and Conferences, Hospice, News & Views

A blog by Barbora Marsalkova

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending my very first HVMN Conference in Leeds. If you’re from the hospice sector, chances are we may have crossed paths over the past year. Finally getting to meet so many incredible people in person, hear their stories, and share experiences was truly a highlight.

This year’s conference took place at the beautiful Horizon Hotel in Leeds. The venue was spacious, which was a blessing given the number of sponsors and exhibition stands – no risk of feeling cramped! Our stand had a prime location right next to a coffee machine, which, if you ask me, is a small but significant win.

The TeamKinetic stall at the HVMN Conference

I spent two days immersed in conversations, listening to stories from hospices across the country – their challenges, their worries, but also their wins and hopes for the future. There’s something incredibly inspiring about being in a room full of people so dedicated to making the world a better place. Yes, my social battery was running low by the end of each day, but I left with a renewed sense of hope and excitement for what’s ahead.

Lessons learned

Leaving the event after two days was bittersweet – I only wish it happened more than once a year! But more than anything, I felt grateful to be part of such a passionate and resilient community.

Each day was packed with insightful speakers who weren’t afraid to tackle big, sometimes controversial, topics. And that’s what made these talks so impactful. They reminded everyone in the room that they’re not alone in their struggles. It’s easy to forget how isolating this kind of work can be until you’re in a space where others openly share the same feelings. The camaraderie in the room was undeniable. It’s no wonder so many people left with big smiles on their faces.

From TeamKinetic’s perspective, it was fantastic to see our clients in person and catch up over a coffee. I had the chance to chat with many people, including those who didn’t end up using our system – it was still lovely to check in and see how things were going.

Having attended a few conferences during my time at TeamKinetic, I can say that each one has its own unique character. What makes the HVMN Conference stand out is that everyone there is in the same boat. There’s an unspoken understanding, a shared mission, and even the formation of friendships.

I’m already looking forward to next year!

Find out more about the Hospice Volunteer Managers Network here.

As always, you can find TeamKinetic on social media and listen to our podcast:

Twitter Facebook LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Podcast

Have you enjoyed using TeamKinetic? If you could leave us a review, we’d really appreciate it!

Volunteering for War Child at Tom Walker’s Concert – A Brits Week Experience

By Alex Evans

On 25th March 2025

In Charity, News & Views

A Blog by Barbora Marsalkova

Volunteering has always been a powerful way to support causes that truly make a difference. War Child, an incredible charity dedicated to helping children affected by conflict, is no exception. As an organisation that will soon be using our volunteer management software, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to experience their work firsthand by volunteering for War Child at one of their events.

Why Volunteer for War Child?

War Child has an amazing presence in the UK’s music scene, organising events that raise funds to support children in need. Their work extends beyond just fundraising. It’s about bringing people together through music to make a real impact.

If you’re a music lover and enjoy being part of live events, volunteering for War Child is an incredible way to combine your passion with a great cause.

My First Time Volunteering for War Child

When I learned that War Child needed volunteers for a Tom Walker concert in Glasgow, part of Brits Week, I jumped at the opportunity. Having spoken to their team before, I already knew how passionate and genuine they were.

Before the event, I was in regular contact with Georgie and the UK fundraising team, who ensured everything was well organised. On the day of the concert, I arrived at the venue and was greeted by two volunteer managers, Rich and Jim. They made sure all the volunteers felt welcome and prepared.

What Did We Do?

The main role of volunteers at the event was to sell merchandise and encourage donations. Before the concert started, we received training on how to use card readers and handle different customer situations. It was great to see how smoothly everything was run and how much thought had gone into making sure volunteers felt supported.

One of the best parts of the night was working alongside other volunteers, including Gaelle, who also shared her thoughts on the experience:

“It was my first time volunteering at a music event, and I loved how engaging it was. Everyone was in great spirits, and knowing we were helping War Child’s cause made it even more rewarding.”

Why This Experience Stood Out

This was not just my first time volunteering for War Child. It was my first time volunteering in the UK.

As someone who works in the volunteer management sector, I was eager to see how volunteering works in practice at a large-scale fundraising event. War Child’s approach was efficient, well-organised, and welcoming, setting a great example for other charities looking to engage volunteers effectively.

Final Thoughts

Volunteering at the Tom Walker concert was an unforgettable experience. It combined my love for music with a meaningful cause. It also gave me a deeper appreciation for the work that goes into organising charity events. If you’re a music fan looking for a way to give back, I highly recommend volunteering for War Child.

Who knows – you might just find yourself at the next big concert, making a difference one donation at a time.

Interested in Volunteering?
Keep an eye on War Child’s website for future opportunities. You can also reach out directly to see how you can get involved!

You can find TeamKinetic on social media and listen to our podcast:

Twitter Facebook LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Podcast

Have you enjoyed using TeamKinetic? If you could leave us a review, we’d really appreciate it!

Author: Alex Evans Page 1 of 22

HVG Volunteer Leader of the Year Award 2025

For further information, visit:

Other News: Tickets Now Available for Heritage Volunteering’25

Unlocking the Power of Volunteer Management: The Benefits of Joining the Association of Volunteer Managers (AVM)

1. Development and Learning Opportunities

2. Mentoring and Networking

3. Exclusive Resources and Content

4. Advocacy and Representation

Membership Options

My First HVMN Conference Experience

Lessons learned

Volunteering for War Child at Tom Walker’s Concert – A Brits Week Experience

Why Volunteer for War Child?

My First Time Volunteering for War Child

What Did We Do?

Why This Experience Stood Out

Final Thoughts

Search

Subscribe to our blog

Contact Details