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TeamKinetic 2024 Roundup

As the year winds down, we’re taking a moment to look back at everything that’s happened at TeamKinetic in 2024. It’s been a year full of exciting launches, inspiring conversations, and new ways to support the amazing volunteering community. Here’s a TeamKinetic 2024 roundup of what we’ve been up to!

January: Easing Back Into It

January was all about getting back into the swing of things after the holidays. Sometimes you need a bit of a reset to prepare for the big things ahead – and trust us, there was a lot coming! Behind the scenes, we were working on new updates, upcoming events, and a full rebrand. That meant that January contained a lot of strategy meetings around how we could make your volunteer management smoother than ever.


February: Tempo Time Credits Integration

February was when things really got going, starting with the launch of our Tempo Time Credits integration. This was a game-changer for recognising volunteers’ contributions, making it easier than ever for you to show your appreciation. Volunteers could now earn credits for their time and trade them for amazing experiences like cinema trips or days out. A win-win for everyone!

We also gave the TeamKinetic app a much-needed refresh. With a fresh, modern interface and smoother user experience, the updated app makes volunteering on the go a breeze. It’s all about saving you time and making your life easier.

We held a launch event to celebrate the release of both of these things. You can watch the recording to find out more:


March: Partnerships That Make a Difference

March was all about building connections to expand opportunities for you.

First, we teamed up with the Association of Independent Festivals (AIF) to dive into volunteering in events, an area that’s so close to our hearts. Festivals rely on passionate volunteers, and this partnership aims to make their contributions more visible and impactful.

We also joined forces with DoIt, laying the groundwork for our integration that would help you share volunteer opportunities widely, including during The Big Help Out. These collaborations weren’t just about us. They were about creating more ways for your opportunities to reach the right people.


April: Testing New Ideas

April was all about trying new things. We launched our first-ever white-labeled app for Manchester City Council, giving them a customised platform to engage with their volunteers in a way that reflected their unique identity. It was a proud moment for us and a glimpse into what’s possible when technology meets creativity.

In April, Chris and Imo also sat down with Ian Braid for TeamTalk S3E2. Ian, founder of DOCIASport, gave us some brilliant insights into mental health and volunteering in sports.

DOCIAsport is an award-winning business that supports ‘the people who look after the people’. DOCIA stands for ‘Duty Of Care In Action’ and it’s something that may have been overlooked in the past. Ian and his team are doing incredible work across the sport sector now, so check out the episode below:

And that’s not all! We also partnered with the Heritage Volunteering Group (HVG) to support organisations in the heritage sector, opening up new avenues for engaging volunteers in cultural and historical spaces.


May: Big Updates, Big Changes

May was all about delivering on the promises we’d been working on for months. We launched TeamKinetic 2.5, packed with features designed to make managing volunteers more intuitive. From smart searches to better email tools and the ability to merge duplicate accounts, this update was built to tackle some of the most common challenges you face.

The full list of updates was as follows:

  • Creating and saving personalised smart searches
  • New search filters
  • WYSIWYG emails
  • Self-reported volunteering
  • Email delivery reports
  • Hide inactive volunteers
  • Merge volunteer accounts
  • Share private notes
  • The Big Help Out DoIt integration

The DoIt integration for The Big Help Out made it easier for you to promote your opportunities and connect with the surge of people inspired to volunteer. It was all about making sure you could make the most of this nationwide event.


June: Celebrating Volunteers Everywhere

June was another busy month for us!

To kick off June, we joined the Volunteers’ Week celebrations. Between the 3rd and 9th of June, we celebrated the amazing contributions of volunteers around the world. Not only that, but towards the end of the week we saw The Big Help Out take place. With our DoIt integration, your opportunities got the spotlight during The Big Help Out, connecting you with a massive wave of 6.5 million people ready to give volunteering a go.

And that’s still not all! Tobi Johnson hosted an inspiring event, Beyond the Big Help Out, all about improving volunteer recruitment and engagement. We were so excited to sponsor this event, hosted by AVM. During the day, Tobi challenged pre-existing ideas of what a good volunteer strategy looks like and offered some great tips and practical advice to take on.


July: Sharing New Perspectives

In July, we focused on sharing insights and connecting with the community.

Chris appeared on Tobi Johnson’s Volunteer Nation Podcast, talking about fresh ways to think about volunteer data and technology. He shared our mission to simplify volunteering and how TeamKinetic is all about creating tech that drives social good.

On TeamTalk, Rosie Wylie from Historic Environment Scotland joined us to share her journey into volunteering and the challenges faced by volunteer coordinators. It was a great reminder of why we do what we do. Supporting you as you navigate those challenges.

We also shared tips on linking TeamKinetic with Google Analytics. By linking TeamKinetic with Google Analytics, you get the inside scoop on your volunteers and can make smarter decisions about recruitment and engagement.


August: Creativity and Updates

August was all about keeping things fresh and innovative. We rolled out TeamKinetic 2.5.1, a smaller update but packed with meaningful tweaks to make the platform even better for you.

We also explored the power of creativity on TeamTalk with Katherine Perrin, who showed us how LEGO Serious Play can spark collaboration and problem-solving within volunteer teams. It was a fun and inspiring way to think about building stronger connections with your volunteers.


September: Conference Season is Here

September was all about bringing people together! The TeamKinetic 2024 Conference was a big highlight of 2024 for us. We had volunteer managers, sector leaders, and experts from across the UK all in one (virtual) room, sharing ideas and inspiring each other.

The mix of practical insights and big-picture thinking made this year’s conference extra special. We covered everything from the latest trends in volunteering to tips for making the most of tech tools (like TeamKinetic!). Our speakers delivered sessions on creative problem-solving, digital transformation, and volunteer engagement.

For us, the conference is more than just an event. It’s a way to show our commitment to supporting you. Whether you walked away with actionable tips, a new perspective, or just a sense of community, we hope it reminded you why we’re so passionate about what we do.

If you missed it, don’t worry. You can catch all the recordings in this playlist.


October: Talking Strategy and the Future

October was all about stepping back, looking at the bigger picture, and thinking about what’s next for volunteering. We had some incredible opportunities to connect with leaders in the sector and explore how we can continue to support you in managing and inspiring your volunteers.

On TeamTalk, we hosted Alan Stevenson, CEO of Volunteer Scotland. He shared some amazing insights into the trends shaping our sector, particularly for Scotland. From adapting to the challenges of modern volunteering to making sure we’re creating inclusive and accessible opportunities for everyone.

October was also conference month for the Association of Volunteer Managers (AVM), and we were thrilled to take part. The AVM Conference is one of the best places to connect with volunteer managers across the UK, and this year was no different. We had some great conversations, exchanged ideas, and shared how TeamKinetic can help make managing volunteers simpler and more effective.

What we love about events like the AVM conference is that they’re not just about the present, they’re about preparing for the future. Whether it’s tackling the challenges of recruiting younger volunteers, embracing new technologies, or redefining what it means to support your team, these events spark the ideas and actions that shape the years ahead. Not just for you, but for us and the TeamKinetic software too!

For us, October reaffirmed the importance of staying connected to the community. We’re not just here to provide software. We’re here to understand your needs, amplify your voice, and work alongside you to make volunteering the best it can be.


November: Highlighting the Importance of Inclusion

In November, we explored equality, diversity, and inclusion in volunteering with Shruti Saujani from the FA on TeamTalk. Shruti gave us plenty to think about, from breaking down barriers to creating more welcoming spaces for volunteers from all walks of life.

It was a powerful reminder that volunteering should be accessible to everyone and that small changes can make a big impact in building inclusive teams. You can catch the full episode below:


December: Finishing the Year Strong

We wrapped up the year with the launch of the Digital in Volunteering Toolkit, an exciting project we’ve been working on for a long time. The Toolkit was created in collaboration with AVM and Gethyn Williams. This toolkit is designed to help you thrive in today’s digital-first world, packed with tips and resources to make managing volunteers easier and more effective.

It was the perfect way to end a year full of growth and innovation, and we’re so excited to see how you use it to create even more impact in 2025. Stay tuned for more on the Toolkit and Community of Practice. And if you have absolutely no idea what either of those things are, watch the launch recording below and download the toolkit now.


What’s Next?
2024 has been an incredible year for TeamKinetic, and we couldn’t have done it without all of you. Our partners, users, and of course, all the amazing volunteers out there. Here’s to more growth, connections, and opportunities in 2025. Let’s see what the new year brings!


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

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

TeamTalk: Season 3, Episode 6 – Shruti Saujani

Welcome back to Season 3 of our TeamTalk Podcast! This season, we are talking to thought leaders, customers and stakeholders from the world of volunteer management as we dive deeper into the world of volunteering. This time around, we speak to Shruti Saujani.

TeamTalk with Shruti Saujani

Welcome back to TeamTalk with TeamKinetic, the podcast where hosts Chris Martin and Imo Greatbatch delve into the world of volunteer engagement, featuring stories and insights from those leading change.

In this episode, Chris and Imo are joined by Shruti Saujani, the FA’s Senior Lead for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, to discuss her inspiring journey and the powerful work she’s doing to drive inclusivity in sports.

Join us as we explore how sports can drive positive change and promote a sense of belonging for all.
You can listen to the episode in full below:

Empowering Change Through Inclusivity in Sports

Shruti Saujani’s journey in sports is one of resilience. Growing up with a love for cricket and football, she faced the challenges of a male-dominated industry and the feeling of marginalisation that often comes with it.

Her passion for change shines through as she shares her dedication to transforming the sports landscape, particularly for women and women of colour. Her commitment to inclusivity isn’t just personal; it’s about creating a future where everyone can see themselves represented. Listen to discover how Shruti breaks down barriers and champions women in sport.

Volunteering as a Catalyst for Change

Shruti reflects on the role of volunteering, both as a means of personal growth and as a way to bring communities together. Her involvement with the Dream Big Desi Women project highlights the importance of fostering inclusive spaces. Teh project welcomes diverse participants and pushes beyond traditional barriers. In 2022, the Dream Big Desi Women campaign celebrated getting over 2,000 South Asian women involved in volunteering in cricket. You can find out more about the project here.

Driving Inclusivity Across Sports Organizations

Shruti, Chris, and Imo discussed the broader implications of diversity within sports organisations. She highlighted the need for fresh perspectives and youth engagement to keep the industry relevant and inclusive. Her experience creating safe networking spaces – particularly for South Asian women in sports – demonstrates the value of building supportive environments that go beyond sports, addressing mental health and shared experiences.

Looking to the Future

Towards the end of the episode, Shruti shares her vision for an inclusive future. She hopes sports can act as a platform for empowerment and meaningful societal change. Her insights on navigating power dynamics with vulnerability and courage provide a hopeful roadmap for a more inclusive and equitable world.

Huge thanks to Shruti for coming onto the pod. That wraps up season three. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to listen. Whether you’ve tuned in for one episode or all 17 of them!


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

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

TeamTalk: Season 3, Episode 5 – Alan Stevenson

Welcome back to Season 3 of our TeamTalk Podcast! This season, we are talking to thought leaders, customers and stakeholders from the world of volunteer management as we dive deeper into the world of volunteering.


In this TeamTalk episode, Alan Stevenson (CEO of Volunteer Scotland) joins us to share his extraordinary career journey and the significance of volunteering in today’s world.

From engineering and international marketing to founding a social media consultancy and ultimately leading Volunteers Scotland, Alan’s story is a testament to the power of saying “yes” to new opportunities. He dives into finding purpose in work and the profound satisfaction that comes from making a difference in people’s lives.

Listen now:

Alan’s Journey

He started his career as a mechanical and electrical engineer on oil rigs and in refineries. Later, he earned a master’s degree in international marketing, leading him into technology and business strategy.

In the early 2000s, Alan co-founded one of Scotland’s first social media consultancies, which eventually brought him to Volunteer Scotland. Initially a consultant, he shaped their digital strategy and brand, taking on roles such as Digital Director and IT Manager before becoming CEO.

Initially a consultant, he shaped their digital strategy and brand, taking on roles such as Digital Director and IT Manager before becoming CEO.

Alan has been instrumental in developing the Volunteer Action Plan, a strategy involving over 130 stakeholders to enhance engagement, influence policies, and create inclusive volunteering spaces. Under his leadership, Volunteer Scotland has successfully navigated government funding and strategic collaborations.

Alan’s career journey, from engineering to volunteer leadership, highlights his commitment to purpose-driven work and community engagement.

Purpose, Impact, and the Future of Volunteer Scotland

In this episode, Chris, Imo and Alan explore the transformative initiatives and strategic shifts within Volunteer Scotland, especially post-COVID-19, including the Volunteer Action Plan.

Alan explains the collaborative process that brought together over 130 stakeholders to shape actionable goals aimed at enhancing lifelong engagement, influencing policies, recognising contributions, and creating inclusive spaces for volunteering. Managing diverse working groups and the importance of co-creation and adaptability in driving these efforts are key themes.

In a broader discussion, they tackled the complex relationship between government funding and the social and economic impacts of volunteering in Scotland. Alan emphasised the need for flexible, inclusive approaches that encourage community participation without becoming overly formalized.

They also reflect on the importance of centralised services like the Volunteer Scotland website and the necessity of protecting the infrastructure supporting volunteering initiatives. Alan’s personal insights shed light on the integral role of volunteering in society and the ongoing efforts to nurture this invaluable resource.

Listen Now

Listen now to a conversation that not only provides inspiration, but delivers practical insights into the world of social impact and professional coaching.

Catch the episode on Spotify now.


Enjoyed this episode? Why not listen to more TeamTalk? You can find more episodes including chats with Rob Jackson, AVM and Sport England wherever you get your podcasts.

If you have any topic or guest requests let us know!

You can find TeamKinetic on social media:

Twitter       Facebook       LinkedIn       YouTube       Instagram       Podcast

 

Have you enjoyed using TeamKinetic? If you could leave us a review on Capterra, we’d really appreciate it! We’ll even send you a little thank you.

TeamTalk: Season 3, Episode 4 – Katherine Perrin

Welcome back to Season 3 of our TeamTalk Podcast! This season, we are talking to thought leaders, customers and stakeholders from the world of volunteer management as we dive deeper into the world of volunteering.


In this TeamTalk episode, we were joined by Katherine Perrin. Katherine is a Social Impact Consultant specialising in LEGO®SeriousPlay® – a unique, tactile way of exploring topics. The method encourages people to use metaphor – using the LEGO bricks to build models that represent their thoughts and ideas.

Katherine’s Journey

How do you transform a career from local government service to making a significant impact in the voluntary sector? Katherine Perrin, our guest for episode four, shares her “squiggly path” career journey. From working in local government to becoming a certified coach, facilitator, and freelance social impact consultant.

Katherine recalls her experiences at a council for voluntary service and a hospice, revealing the profound personal growth and life-changing insights gained from these roles. Discover how she navigated the bold transition to self-employment, balancing purpose and passion while overcoming challenges.

Katherine also dives into her experience balancing a fulfilling career and personal life within the voluntary sector. We discuss the practicalities of maintaining a work-life balance in a field driven by passion, the struggle against imposter syndrome, and the importance of recognising your own value.

Katherine sheds light on the appeal of self-employment, from the flexibility it offers to the opportunities for collaboration with multiple organisations. In addition, she explains what it truly means to be a coach and facilitator in today’s ever-evolving job landscape as well as the satisfaction derived from witnessing client growth.

In the episode, we unravel the complexities of measuring social impact and how innovative methodologies, like LEGO Serious Play, are transforming discussions and problem-solving sessions.

Katherine highlights the importance of transparent social impact measurement and the challenges faced by organisations in this space. We also touch on the pressing issues of funding and sustainability within the voluntary sector, emphasising the necessity for long-term, trust-based funding relationships.

Listen Now

Listen now to a conversation that not only provides inspiration, but delivers practical insights into the world of social impact and professional coaching.

Catch the episode on Spotify and all other podcast streaming platforms:


Enjoyed this episode? Why not listen to more TeamTalk? You can find more episodes including chats with Rob Jackson, AVM and Sport England wherever you get your podcasts.

If you have any topic or guest requests let us know!

You can find TeamKinetic on social media:

Twitter       Facebook       LinkedIn       YouTube       Instagram       Podcast

 

Have you enjoyed using TeamKinetic? If you could leave us a review on Capterra, we’d really appreciate it! We’ll even send you a little thank you.

TeamTalk: Season 3, Episode 3 – Rosie Wylie

Welcome back to Season 3 of our TeamTalk Podcast! This season, we are talking to thought leaders, customers and stakeholders from the world of volunteer management as we dive deeper into the world of volunteering.


In this TeamTalk episode, we were joined by Rosie Wylie. Rosie serves as the National Volunteering and Community Development Manager at Historic Environment Scotland and is a Trustee for Volunteer Scotland. She is also an independent assessor for the UK-wide Investing in Volunteers quality assurance award and Vice Chair of the Make Your Mark in Volunteering Campaign Group.

At Historic Environment Scotland, Rosie oversees the national volunteer programme and provides volunteer development support for the heritage sector. Her expertise includes community engagement and development, national engagement programme design, collaborative project delivery, and the organisation of digital and hybrid events and conferences.

Rosie’s Journey

In this episode, Rosie Wylie shares her journey into volunteering, which began at 18 when a six-month trip to Australia turned into a five-year stay. This period of her life boosted her confidence and helped her discover the importance of volunteering.

Returning to Scotland, Rosie continued exploring various career paths through volunteering, highlighting the importance of supportive volunteer coordinators in shaping volunteer experiences and career guidance.

Chris, Imo and Rosie discuss the many challenges faced by volunteer coordinators. The episode also focuses on the “Make Your Mark” campaign, aimed at increasing volunteer diversity in Scotland’s heritage sector. The campaign’s goals include upskilling volunteer managers, developing inclusion tools, and fostering community engagement.

Looking ahead, Rosie highlights the growing demand for workshops and the need for cross-sector knowledge sharing and alignment with the Volunteer Scotland action plan. Key challenges include connecting with volunteers, understanding their expectations, and addressing participation barriers. Collaboration and relationship-building are essential for providing excellent volunteer experiences and adapting to post-pandemic expectations, with ongoing efforts to sustain and grow the “Make Your Mark” initiative and achieve accreditation through Investing in Volunteers.

Listen Now

Listen now on Spotify and all other podcast streaming platforms:


Enjoyed this episode? Why not listen to more TeamTalk? You can find more episodes including chats with Rob Jackson, AVM and Sport England wherever you get your podcasts.

If you have any topic or guest requests let us know!

You can find TeamKinetic on social media:

Twitter       Facebook       LinkedIn       YouTube       Instagram       Podcast

 

Have you enjoyed using TeamKinetic? If you could leave us a review on Capterra, we’d really appreciate it! We’ll even send you a little thank you.

TeamTalk: Season 3, Episode 2 – Ian Braid

Welcome back to Season 3 of our TeamTalk Podcast! This season, we are talking to thought leaders, customers and stakeholders from the world of volunteer management as we dive deeper into the world of volunteering.

In this TeamTalk episode, we were joined by Ian Braid. Ian is an exciting guest with plenty of stories to tell from his time in the industry. We could have probably done a whole season with him!

Chris Martin, Imo Greatbatch, and Ian Braid on TeamTalk


He is currently the founder of DOCIAsport – an award-winning business that supports ‘the people who look after the people’. DOCIA stands for ‘Duty Of Care In Action’ and it’s something that may have been overlooked in the past, but Ian and his team are doing incredible work across the sport sector now.

Listen Now

Join Chris, Imo and Ian as they discuss Ian’s volunteer work and his career. He also discusses his mental health journey, an incredibly important and insightful conversation. One that could have gone on for much longer. We appreciate Ian being so open with us and highlighting this issue in the sector.

Listen now on Spotify and all other podcast streaming platforms:

More about Ian

Ian consistently tackles the stigma of mental health in sport through his work at DOCIAsport.

He is a member of Mental Health First Aid England, Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity, Professional Body of Sports Leadership and UK Coaching, a member of the UK Coaching – as Coaching Advisory Panel, and Chair UK Coaching Duty to Care Committee.

His past work includes roles as Major Events Director of the British Triathlon Federation and CEO of the British Athletes Commission (BAC) – the union for Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

Read Ian’s blog on this episode here: Volunteering in sport – the essential but diminishing ingredient


Enjoyed this episode? Why not listen to more TeamTalk? You can find more episodes including chats with Rob Jackson, AVM and Sport England wherever you get your podcasts.

If you have any topic or guest requests let us know!

You can find TeamKinetic on social media:

Twitter       Facebook       LinkedIn       YouTube       Instagram       Podcast

 

Have you enjoyed using TeamKinetic? If you could leave us a review on Capterra, we’d really appreciate it! We’ll even send you a little thank you.

Developing A Business Case For TeamKinetic Volunteer Management System (VMS)

We know that there are a wide range of things to consider when you are looking to invest in technology. This short article will help you develop your business case for TeamKinetic to decision-makers.


Compliance

It’s not the most exciting topic. However, it’s one of the most significant risk factors for your senior management team to consider. In this context, we are specifically thinking about compliance with the laws of the land.

So, what are we talking about when we think about managing volunteers? Below are a couple of the big ones.

  • General Data Protection Regulation – 2016
  • Health and Safety at Work Act – 1974
  • Equality Act – 2010

You can read more about each of these and how they impact volunteers, here.

TeamKinetic is built with compliance in mind. If you are working from spreadsheets or more rudimentary systems, this may be challenging. Consider the following questions:

  • Can you guarantee the appropriate collection and storage of sensitive data?
  • How easy is it for you to manage a subject access request?
  • Has every volunteer consented to your terms and conditions?
  • Do you have a record of any training or induction a volunteer has undertaken?
  • How easy is it to check for individuals whose training may have lapsed?
  • Do you have reliable data on your volunteer workforce from an equality and inclusion standpoint?
  • How many of your volunteers identify as disabled or with other protected characteristics?

These are all examples of compliance risks, and this burden only continues to grow. However, these are all easily solved using TeamKinetic. TeamKinetic provides the infrastructure to capture and store data in accordance with best practices and legal requirements.


Security

A sub-set of the compliance risk area, cyber security is a challenge for all organisations. The Software as a Service approach means you get the benefit of our expertise and knowledge in this space.

With our work with the Cyber Security Unit at Salford University, our Cyber Essentials certification, and as we work towards ISO 27001 compliance, you can be sure that TeamKinetic is operating at or above the industry standard. Our approach to risk is managed via our Risk Register and our published policies, giving our customers total peace of mind.

Spreadsheets, web forms and old databases might work, but they are fought with risk. A solution like TeamKinetic undergoes regular penetration testing, policy evaluation and review and work in accordance with OWASP best practice in coding and development.


Digital and Online

As the world becomes more digital, the expectations for volunteer engagement continue to rise. Your services and how individuals engage with them are being compared to everything else available online. A failure to keep up will result in organisations being left behind, especially by more digitally savvy individuals.

Currently, smartphone adoption rates in the UK sit at 91.5%, but that is expected to rise to 96.8% by 2028.

Consumer behaviour post-COVID has seen a significant shift, McKinsey published a paper in 2020 on this very topic. McKinsey’s crucial finding was that we “covered a decade of adoption in days” as a result of COVID and people have adopted digital in all aspects of their daily lives. Not only have people adopted digital, the digital world continues to move forward at a pace. The challenge for all organisations is keeping up with these digital trends.

TeamKinetic is a SaaS product or ‘Software as a Service’. This approach enables our customers to choose the best-in-class solution, off the shelf, to solve their volunteer management challenges. SaaS reduces the need for expensive infrastructure or technical expertise and it is built to meet the highest accessibility and inclusion standards. In TeamKinetic’s case, our product is constantly being improved and updated based on customer and user feedback.

We take advantage of the internet; it’s always on, available everywhere you have a network signal, on any internet-enabled device.

TeamKinetic is built to connect with other services via tools such as APIs, Webhooks, and Zapier. These are fancy ways of saying that TeamKinetic works with your other programs and applications that you might have integrated.

TeamKinetic is a professional application that provides your volunteers with a high-quality online experience.


Volunteering Trends

The current data on volunteering numbers does not make for easy reading for volunteer managers. Time Well Spent from NCVO is stark; volunteering is trending down across the board. We have seen increases in Virtual and Micro volunteering and healthy growth in the number of young people who volunteer, which suggests a more general change in volunteer attitudes and preferences.

This data suggests that organisations need more flexibility in their offer as volunteers want to choose what they do, how long they commit, and where they volunteer. For your average volunteer manager, that is a significant challenge.

Volunteer managers need a system that enables them to offer volunteers more agency and control in the form of self-service; they need methods to empower their volunteer audience to do more things for themselves. TeamKinetic provides volunteers with the ability to self-serve, self-manage and self-report. This frees up valuable volunteer manager time to ensure those needing extra support can still access it.


Quality of the Experience

As an organisation, you compete for people’s time against a world of family, entertainment and challenges including the cost of living. In that context, it’s incredible that anyone ever volunteers.

You are also responsible for creating a positive volunteer experience. The role or task a volunteer completes is an intrinsic part of this experience, but the systems you have in place to enable this are vital components too.

Your systems should never create new challenges that prevent volunteers from participating. They can’t be difficult to use or offer limited accessibility for certain users.

Enable simple rewards and recognition of volunteers’ hard work. Gather feedback from your volunteers and the volunteer opportunity providers to identify excellent practices and those who may be struggling. As a result, you can let your volunteers know the difference they are making.


Time

Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important.

Stephen Covey

I’m yet to meet a volunteer manager who got into the job to spend more time doing computer admin! Yet admin responsibilities often squeeze your ability to actually work with volunteers. Collecting feedback and data, recording hours and outcomes, reporting to the board, and communicating with all your other stakeholders. It never ends!

Moving from spreadsheets or inadequate products can radically alter how you can do your job, how many volunteers you can support and, ultimately, the impact you can make.

TeamKinetic can provide real-time reporting, emails and structured onboarding; all of which give you and your volunteer managers more time. If we can give you more time to do the stuff that truly matters, what is that worth?


Cost

After everything we have covered above, it would be simple to say that you cannot afford not to use TeamKinetic. However, TeamKinetic is realistic about the pressures and demands on budgets and that organisations are constantly challenged to do more with less.

We started TeamKinetic to try and do the maximum amount of good, to offer something a little different to what else is available in the market, and that is strongly reflected in our pricing.

The number of volunteers who can register and use TeamKinetic is unlimited, and it will never impact your price.

We offer four product tiers designed to suit every type of organisation. Each is clearly defined with no nasty surprises or hidden costs.

We strongly believe that our cost does not truly represent our value. We are active supporters and partners with the Association of Volunteer Managers, the Sports Volunteering Research Network and the Institute of Volunteering Research. Investing with TeamKinetic is investing in the voluntary sector and we have more partnerships to announce.

Our FREE community product is available so that all organisations can benefit from TeamKinetic.

We want to build a stronger community of volunteer managers through our partnerships, monthly masterclass sessions, peer-to-peer chat space, and yearly conferences. We have developed a network of wonderful people who share many of our values and beliefs about volunteers’ fantastic impact on the world.


This list is by no means exhaustive! With that in mind, I’d love to hear your thoughts on how you have convinced your managers to invest in volunteer management. Drop me an email at chris@teamkinetic.co.uk.


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 on Capterra, we’d really appreciate it! We’ll even send you a little thank you.

Culture Wars and the Third Sector: Navigate Challenges and Seize Opportunities

Ideological clashes, commonly referred to as “culture wars” are often fueled by polarised perspectives on issues like identity, values, and social justice. Of course, the Third Sector plays a crucial role in addressing societal challenges. As culture wars intensify, Third Sector organisations’ ability to maintain their purpose whilst adapting to change has proved difficult. Discover how to navigate culture wars and even seize opportunities to combat such challenges.


These divergences are playing out across society and they impact on many charities very acutely. In part, I think, because they’re so often fuelled by the sense of mission, a desire to right a wrong or serve a certain community, whether that be a community place or interest. 

There is no way for charities to immunise themselves against change, whether that’s technological, cultural or economic. The question is how best to respond.

Helen Stephenson, chief executive of the Charity Commission

Seizing Opportunities Amidst Challenges

Strengthening Organisational Values

Organisations may find it challenging to maintain unity among their staff and stakeholders when confronted with divisive issues.

In times of cultural turbulence, it becomes essential for Third Sector organisations to revisit and reinforce their core values. With a strong internal alignment and set purpose, your organisation will be more robust. Equally, the wider community can be reassured of your organisation’s consistent, positive, uniting impact.

Building Inclusive Dialogue

The Third Sector is often at the forefront of addressing social issues. However, during times of social conflict, your organisation may feel pressured to take positions on controversial topics for fear of alienating segments of their support base.

The Third Sector can play a crucial role in fostering inclusive dialogues that bridge divides. By creating spaces for constructive conversations, organisations can contribute to building understanding and finding common ground within communities.

Diversifying Funding Streams

Charities and non-profits may face difficulties in securing funding as donors become more selective based on ideological considerations. Some organisations may find themselves caught in the crossfire, with donors withdrawing support due to perceived alignment or misalignment with cultural stances.

To mitigate the impact of funding challenges stemming from culture wars, Third Sector organisations should consider diversifying their funding sources. Exploring partnerships with a variety of donors and revenue streams can provide financial stability.

Adapting Strategies

Advocacy and policy work are integral to the Third Sector’s mission. Culture wars hinder organisations’ ability to influence policy decisions because politicians may be reluctant to align with contentious causes.

To navigate the complexities of advocacy, Third Sector organisations may need to adapt their strategies. This could involve framing issues in a way that resonates with a broader audience and emphasises shared values rather than divisive rhetoric.


Conclusion

As culture wars continue in the UK, the Third Sector must confront the challenges they present while actively seeking opportunities for positive impact. By staying true to your missions, fostering an inclusive dialogue and adapting to change, your organisation can navigate culture wars and contribute to a more united society.

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Combatting Volunteering Myths

All of us in the third sector are aware of some common stereotypes about volunteering. However, are you actively combatting these myths with the volunteering opportunities you create and the messages you portray? Read on to address and combat volunteering myths!


Myth 1: Volunteering Is Only About Charity Work

While charity work is a significant aspect of volunteering, it’s not the only focus. Volunteering encompasses a wide range of activities, including community development, environmental conservation, disaster response, and more. There are countless ways to make a positive impact that goes beyond traditional charity work. Including a volunteering page on your website, as we advise here, is a great way to make people aware of volunteering with your organisation.

Myth 2: Volunteering is Only for the Retired or Unemployed

The reality is that volunteering is for everyone, regardless of age or employment status. While retirees and the unemployed may find more time to dedicate, individuals with busy schedules can still contribute. Setting your opportunity to ‘flexible’ hours, allowing people to engage based on their availability, will help combat this stereotype. There has also been an increase in virtual volunteering carried out by younger generations in recent years. Consider adopting digital volunteering, as we explore in our blog here.

Myth 3: Volunteering Requires Skill

As this Girl Can Reports have found, many women are prevented from taking part in sports due to their belief that they lack technical knowledge. This too applies to volunteering! When writing your opportunity descriptions try to put yourself in the volunteer’s shoes. Quash those hesitations! This way, before volunteering, people will already have a perception of your organisation as accepting and grateful for volunteer time. Volunteering as a way to boost self-confidence or meet new people does not require any hard skills. Whether an opportunity involves hard skills or not, the foundational requirements are the same; a desire to make a difference.

Myth 4: Safeguarding Training is Mandatory

Of course, ensuring that your organisation is a safe space for everyone is a priority. Encouraging all volunteers to access safeguarding resources and insisting on reporting suspicious behaviour are a must.

It is important to note that there are various safeguarding training levels, depending on the nature of the volunteering role. For example, in a sports organisation, for those volunteering as a coach, safeguarding training would be mandatory. However, if a role involved minimal contact with sensitive data or other people, there would be lower safeguarding requirements.

When creating opportunities in your TemKinetic system, be sure to state the level of safeguarding training. For those looking for a less time-consuming commitment, an opportunity with minimal prerequisite training is desirable. Equally, streamlining your training will save time and resources.

Myth 5: All Volunteers must have a DBS

Similarly to safeguarding training, DBS checks are only applicable in certain situations. When necessary, DBS checks can be logged within TeamKinetic. Once again, make these requirements clear so that volunteers are not under the impression that more is required of them! With our upcoming First Advantage Integration, DBS checking is about to get super simple!


Go and Make a Difference!

As a dedicated volunteer manager, your role is crucial in mobilising individuals to make a positive impact on the community. However, common myths and misconceptions surrounding volunteering can sometimes hinder the recruitment and engagement of volunteers. By addressing these misconceptions from your unique perspective, you can attract a diverse pool of volunteers and foster a dynamic and inclusive volunteer community.


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

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Have you enjoyed using TeamKinetic? If you could leave us a review on Capterra, we’d really appreciate it! We’ll even send you a little thank you.

Volunteer Reward and Recognition just got easier with TeamKinetic and Tempo Time Credits

Looking to supercharge your volunteer reward and recognition? Well, within the TeamKinetic volunteer management system, you can now give your volunteers Tempo Time Credits for all their hard work.

Who are Tempo? What are Tempo Time Credits?

Tempo is a registered charity that builds local and national organisation networks by bringing people together in their local communities to carry out valued voluntary work. 

The Time Credit model recognises and rewards volunteers for the hours they give. Volunteers can exchange Time Credits for experiences, products or services – like cinema tickets, entry to visitor attractions or even a coffee and a slice of cake! These experiences, products, and services are provided by their ‘Recognition Partners’.

How does Tempo work within TeamKinetic?

Volunteer reward and recognition has never been easier. Within TeamKinetic, Admin users will control the whole process. They can decide which opportunities merit Tempo Time Credits and determine how many credits are available. 

Meanwhile, your volunteers can seamlessly join Tempo. They’ll gain instant access to their credit balance and local offers directly from their TeamKinetic dashboard. Once volunteer hours are confirmed, the conversion process is a breeze. They can effortlessly exchange their hours for Tempo Time Credits, giving them the freedom to spend or gift them as they choose.

Getting started with this integration depends on a few factors. Are you a TeamKinetic Enterprise user? And do Tempo have a recognition network set up in your area?

See below for a map of where Tempo presently operates:

If Tempo aren’t in your area, fear not! You can discuss your options with Tempo’s CEO Rachel. Also, if you’d like to become a recognition partner yourself, there is opportunity to do that. This would involve offering experiences for volunteers to redeem with their Tempo Time Credits.

The Impact of Tempo Time Credits

Not convinced yet? Read all about the impact Tempo can make for volunteers and communities below:


And see this great video for a visual look at Tempo’s impact:


Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get started?

Please see the graphic below for more instructions.

Book a chat with Chris: https://savvycal.com/Chris-Martin-fd7fab21/Tempo 

Book a chat with Rachel: https://savvycal.com/rachelgegeshidze/9d48a957

Can you provide more details on the specific benefits or incentives offered through Tempo Time Credits, such as examples of experiences, products, or services that volunteers can redeem?

Redeemable services include: classes at the local leisure centre, shows at the local theatre, and a day out at the zoo. You can read case studies from volunteers using Time Credits in this report.

How does TeamKinetic ensure the security and accuracy of volunteer hour tracking within the system to facilitate the seamless exchange of hours for Tempo Time Credits?

Only provider-confirmed hours will contribute towards the amount of Time Credits available for redemption. Furthermore, limits can be set on how many credits can be redeemed per opportunity/in a certain amount of time. Rolf will work with you to set these guidelines.

Are there any potential costs or fees associated with integrating Tempo Time Credits into the TeamKinetic volunteer management system, either for organizations or volunteers, and how are these managed or mitigated?

Yes, you will have to set up a contract with Tempo. However, on the TeamKinetic side, there is no extra charge to get this activated within your system.


In the meantime, you can read more from Tempo themselves. Their CEO Rachel was kind enough to write us a lovely guest blog all about Tempo and the great work they do.


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 on Capterra, we’d really appreciate it! We’ll even send you a little thank you.

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