PTAs would not exist without the time given by volunteers. And when you’re running an event with the potential to raise thousands of pounds, you will likely need more of them than at any other time. For many PTAs, the summer fair is the biggest event of the fundraising year, so it’s essential to address the issue of volunteer recruitment early on. Addressing the reasons why people do and don’t volunteer can help boost your recruitment drive.
Why do people volunteer?
FAMILY TRADITION: Not everyone offers to help for the same reason. Supporters often mention that they help because they saw their own parents doing the same when they were at school – a clear example of modelling ideal behaviour! Gilly Cunningham, co-chair at Disley PTFA in Stockport (260 pupils), explains: ‘My parents set the example that it’s good to give back, and I want to do the same for my daughter.’ Others say the opposite – they volunteer because their parents didn’t. Either way, numerous studies have shown that volunteering increases social connections and self-esteem while actually reducing stress.
ACTION POINT: Most children genuinely enjoy seeing their parents getting involved, to the point that they may step up as mini helpers too. Use the data from research on volunteering – together with photos and quotes from those who have helped before – to highlight the beneficial aspects as part of your recruitment drive.
ENRICHING SCHOOL LIFE: Many parents and carers volunteer to help their children get the best possible experience of school. They understand that PTA work makes a huge contribution to enrichment in a way that schools can’t afford and the curriculum doesn’t always accommodate. With state school funding so limited, the experiences PTAs fund make a massive difference.
ACTION POINT: The central message that will help your recruitment drive is to show the impact of your work. Frequently, clearly and openly communicate what you have funded and the enjoyment and learning the children received as a result. Make a clear link between the money the PTA raises and the benefits for the children. Itemise what you funded, be it trim trails or stationery, trips or treats. Use stories and comments from the children and teachers where possible.
Why don’t people volunteer?
HECTIC LIVES: We’ve all heard someone say: ‘I can’t help out because I work.’ This can be frustrating for PTAs, especially since many parents and committee members who give their time are in the same situation. Modern life is busy by design. Long working hours, rising costs and the constant barrage of notifications from our devices can leave us feeling stressed and short of time. So it’s important to show understanding while emphasising that when more people contribute their time, it reduces the overall load.
ACTION POINT: It’s important to highlight that any amount of voluntary time is valuable. Micro-volunteering can have a significant impact at your summer fair – a group of people who each spend half an hour sorting gazebos or staffing stalls makes the task easier and more enjoyable for everyone. Online platforms such as volunteersignup.org and signup.com make the sign-up process as smooth as possible. They allow potential helpers to see the available tasks, as well as when they need to be done, how long they will take and how many people have already signed up.
NEW SITUATIONS: The thought of stepping into an unfamiliar environment can be daunting, especially if people are unsure of what their responsibilities will entail. This feeling of uncertainty can create a barrier that makes it easy to opt out.
ACTION POINT: In all your communications, clearly state that your PTA encourages gradual integration and offers ongoing support. Provide straightforward information for ad-hoc helpers at the fair by writing a one-page description for each stall or game that outlines the roles and responsibilities. Pair newcomers with experienced volunteers who can offer guidance and reassurance. At the start, hold a volunteer briefing and encourage questions to help alleviate any anxiety. The difference between recruiting a new committee member and discouraging a person from offering again may be as simple as giving them a cup of tea after an hour. Don’t skimp on the thanks either.
WELCOME EVERYONE: Another reason people avoid offering to help is a perceived sense of the PTA being a clique. There can be a tribal mentality at the school gate, the idea that PTA work is only for a certain type of parent: the mum who works part-time or not at all, the creative with boundless energy, the egotist who wants to be in control.
ACTION POINT: Be mindful of your PTA’s culture and composition to avoid claims that you only associate with a select group. Focus on being friendly, positive and approachable; remember that some people offer help because of the social side. Ask all committee members to be as visible as possible at events and on the school run, enabling the school community to recognise faces and connect with the PTA. It’s especially important at the beginning of the school year when you need to engage with new parents. Aim for your committee to reflect diverse personalities and perspectives to help you connect with a broader section of the school community. One effective method is by breaking with the traditional roles. ‘We have three co-chairs, and we’re all working to be visible, welcoming and friendly,’ says Gilly. ‘We agree that we should have an equal voice.’
A big ask
One of the biggest reasons people cite for not volunteering is that nobody asked. Your final action point is to put out your call far and wide, making sure it reaches the entire community in different ways and at different times.
Read more about attracting volunteers:
- Our top tips on how to encourage sign-ups
- How PTAs can show supporters the true value of their work
- Micro-volunteering can help PTAs widen their pool of supporters and accomplish more tasks
