2023 Workshops

Workshop Session I: 9:40-10:50 am

Multi-generational Management Tactics – Jordan Debbink-Lesniak, Director of Development, Allendale Association

Are you ready to shatter the chains of ageism and stereotypes? It's time to unite, innovate, and excel with our workshop. Discover the untapped potential of your multi-generational volunteers as you embark on a journey of empowerment.

You'll break free from outdated notions and tap into the unique strengths of each generation. Align your management strategies with their needs and expectations, and watch as your team's synergy reaches new heights. Don't miss this opportunity to ignite change and create a thriving volunteer program.

Making It Personal: The Power of Reflection and Service – Ida Fiore and Brad Swanson, Co-Founders, SaLT: Service and Learning Together

Ignite change through the power of service-learning! Join us on a journey that will change your approach to volunteering. Discover the remarkable potential to create an impactful service-learning program in your community. Through hands-on exercises, inspiring examples, and reflective practices, you'll gain the tools to personalize the volunteer experience and leave a lasting impact on both volunteers and those they serve.

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a movement that replicates service-learning programs in every community. Sign up now and become a catalyst for change in 2023, creating and maintaining a motivated volunteer base that makes a genuine difference in the lives of others.

Creating a Community of Motivated Volunteers – Joanne Telser-Frere, Director of Program Development, and Karen Fredrickson, Master Tutor Trainer, Literacy Chicago

Harness the power of a connected community and unleash the extraordinary potential of your volunteers. Discover practical strategies to break down barriers, forge deep connections, and fuel unwavering commitment to your mission. Experience the electrifying energy as new volunteers bond through engaging activities, while seasoned volunteers become mentors, guiding and empowering newcomers. Together, we'll revolutionize your volunteer program, celebrating achievements and conquering challenges as a united force. Don't miss this opportunity to redefine the essence of community!

Workshop Session II: 11:00 am-12:10 pm

DiSC: a Common Language – Jordan Debbink-Lesniak, Director of Development, Allendale Association

This workshop is designed to provide you with a high-level overview of the DISC model and how it can improve your communication strategies. DISC is a behavior assessment tool built upon the foundation of four distinct personality traits: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness.

By understanding these traits and identifying communication preferences within your team, you'll unlock the secrets to effective communication and create a common language that resonates with everyone. You will equip yourself with invaluable strategies to improve interactions, foster satisfaction, and achieve remarkable results in both your workplace and volunteer engagements.

Mission Control: How to Keep Your Volunteers Soaring – Julie Gilmartin, Volunteer Coordinator, Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network

Are you ready to unlock the secret to keeping your volunteers soaring towards success? Look no further! We delve deep into the heart of volunteer engagement, exploring the incredible power of your organization's mission.

We reveal the strategic insights, proven techniques, and invaluable wisdom that will change the way you recruit, train, support, and retain your volunteers. Explore the most effective methods for nurturing an environment where volunteers feel valued, appreciated, and deeply connected to your cause. the power of your organization's mission propel you to new heights of success!

From ADA-Compliant To Disability-Friendly: Forward Thinking Steps On Building Accessible And Inclusive Volunteer Experiences – Bex Takacs-Britz, President and Founder, Welcome Home Neighbors

Did you know that 1 in 4 Americans has a disability? Astonishingly, the true potential of these individuals is often overlooked, and their unique skills and gifts remain untapped. But it doesn't have to be this way! Together, let's move beyond mere compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and embrace a new paradigm of Disability Pride and radical inclusion.

Explore the evolving language surrounding disabilities and tap into the benefits of creating disability-welcoming events, spaces, and experiences. Be inspired by case studies and gain practical tips for framing accessible and inclusive volunteer programs.

Welcome volunteers where they truly belong - in roles and organizations that celebrate them, bring them joy, and foster personal and professional growth. By creating accessible experiences, you open doors for all our neighbors to fully participate and partner with us in systems-changing work.

“Better Together” Networking Session: 1:20-3:00 pm

You’ve done random networking at other conferences, now try a different kind of idea exchange!

Welcome to the structured connection session! This session aims to provide you with a focused and meaningful exchange of ideas and discussions with like-minded individuals. Whether you're seeking specific topics to discuss or looking for inspiration, this session will help facilitate engaging conversations.

You will have the opportunity to share your burning hot topics—subjects that are of particular interest or concern to you as a Volunteer Services Professional. These topics can range from volunteer recruitment and engagement strategies to volunteer recognition and retention techniques, best practices for volunteer program management, or even challenges faced in the field. By sharing your burning hot topics, we can ensure that you are matched with individuals who understand and can contribute to the conversation.

If, during the session, you find yourself running out of topics to discuss, don't worry! We have plenty of backup topics that will be provided to keep the conversations flowing. These backup topics will cover a wide range of relevant areas within volunteer services and will ensure that you have a rich and varied experience throughout the session.

To further enhance the networking experience, we will also be switching groups periodically. This rotation will enable you to connect with a wide variety of Volunteer Services Professionals, fostering diverse perspectives and facilitating a deeper understanding of the field. You will have the opportunity to learn from others, share your expertise, and forge new connections with professionals who share similar passions and challenges.