Sr. Monica Clare captivated the audience at the NAMMA Conference 2024 in Newark with an inspiring message rooted in her personal story of discernment. Drawing from her journey as a nun at the Community of St. John Baptist, she offered unique perspectives and practical advice on how to effectively recruit and retain volunteers. Her passion, humor, and deep understanding of spiritual life made for an engaging and thought-provoking talk, emphasizing that recruiting volunteers is more than a task—it’s a calling.
The Power of Discernment
Discernment, Sr. Monica Clare suggested, is foundational when considering volunteer recruitment. She likened the process of discerning one’s life purpose to how we should approach the task of seeking the right volunteers. “Discernment isn’t a one-time decision,” she shared. “It’s a daily practice of listening—listening to God, to your community, and to your own heart.” By framing volunteer recruitment as a process of listening and discovering, she encouraged leaders to think deeply about how they engage potential volunteers.
This means going beyond simply asking for help. Instead, leaders should consider what the community’s needs are, who might be called to serve, and how best to foster an environment that welcomes those who feel a tug to contribute. The emphasis on careful discernment encourages a thoughtful approach to volunteer recruitment—one that acknowledges both the needs of the ministry and the unique gifts of the volunteers.
The Gift of Personal Invitation
Sr. Monica highlighted the profound impact of a personal invitation. “We often underestimate the power of simply asking someone directly,” she said. “A personal invitation shows that you see them, that you value them, and that you believe they have something special to offer.” Volunteers are more likely to engage when they feel recognized and appreciated, and this begins with a simple, heartfelt invitation.
The invitation process is not only about the ask but also about how the ask is made. Sr. Monica pointed out that an invitation should come from a place of genuine interest in the person’s potential contributions. It’s not about filling a role; it’s about nurturing a relationship. This approach helps volunteers see their involvement as meaningful and necessary, rather than just another commitment on their calendar.
Nurturing Volunteers Like a Community
Sr. Monica stressed the importance of building a nurturing community for volunteers. Drawing on her experience within a religious order, she described how a supportive environment can help sustain volunteers through challenges and make them feel like an integral part of the ministry’s mission. “Community is what keeps us going,” she explained. “It’s what helps us get through tough times and celebrate the joys together.”
For those seeking to retain volunteers, it is crucial to provide opportunities for connection and support. Regular check-ins, shared meals, and moments of prayer or reflection can foster a sense of belonging. Volunteers who feel they are part of a caring, supportive community are more likely to stay committed to their roles and find joy in their service.
Offering Meaningful Roles
Sr. Monica also spoke about the need to provide volunteers with meaningful roles that align with their skills and passions. She suggested that leaders take time to understand what each volunteer brings to the table. “Ask them what they love to do, what gives them energy,” she advised. “Volunteers are more likely to stick around when they’re doing something they love and when they see the difference they’re making.”
By aligning volunteers’ interests with the needs of the ministry, leaders can create an experience that is both fulfilling and effective. Whether it’s through engaging volunteers in hands-on activities, leadership roles, or behind-the-scenes work, the goal is to make sure their contributions feel valued and impactful.
Acknowledging the Challenges
Sr. Monica did not shy away from discussing the difficulties of finding and keeping volunteers, especially in a world with countless distractions and competing commitments. “It’s not always easy to get people to commit,” she acknowledged. “But it’s important to remember that people are often waiting for a cause they can believe in—a mission they feel called to support.”
She reminded attendees that perseverance is key and that while not every ask will result in a “yes,” every effort to reach out is an opportunity to build connections and share the ministry’s story. By maintaining faith and continuing to cast the net wide, leaders can find those who are ready and willing to serve.
Inspiration for the Future
Sr. Monica Clare’s message to NAMMA conference participants was one of hope and encouragement. “We all have gifts to share,” she concluded. “The key is to invite people into a journey—a journey of service, growth, and community.” Her insights offered a refreshing perspective on volunteer recruitment and retention, reminding leaders that at its heart, the process is about building relationships and helping others find their place in the mission of service.
