Volunteer Onboarding Kit

Your goal: convert volunteer interest into action within 48 hours. People who don't take a first action within two days rarely come back. Make it easy, make it immediate, and match them to a clear role.

Core Volunteer Roles

Canvasser

2-hour weekend shifts. Short script, ID logging required. Best for energetic, people-forward volunteers.

Texter / Caller

60–90 minute remote shifts. Must include opt-out language. Good for volunteers with busy schedules who want to help from home.

Events Lead

Responsible for venue confirmation, materials setup, sign-in, and photos. Detail-oriented volunteers who love logistics.

Data Captain

Nightly list cleaning. ID entry and follow-up tracking. For volunteers comfortable with spreadsheets or databases.

The 48-Hour Onboarding Flow

1. T-0: Automated confirmation reply with upcoming shift times and signup link.
2. T-12: Personal text from your organizer: "Thanks for signing up — got any questions before your shift?"
3. T-24: Short video (3–5 min) and script materials sent.
4. T-48: First shift confirmed with specific time, location, and what to bring.

Training Agenda (20 minutes)

1. Why this race matters — 2 minutes from the candidate or organizer.
2. Script review — read together aloud.
3. Roleplay in pairs — 5 minutes.
4. Logging walkthrough — show the exact process.
5. Q&A — answer everything before the shift starts.

Retention

• Post-shift: thank every volunteer by name within 24 hours.
• Share results: "Your team made 143 contacts tonight."
• Match future shifts to their energy level — don't burn out your best people.
• Build your leadership pipeline: identify captains early and give them responsibility.

Tracking (4-Week Rolling)

• Week 1: Signups and first-shift completions
• Week 2: Repeat volunteer rate (goal: 60%+)
• Week 3: Contacts made per volunteer per shift
• Week 4: Volunteer-to-captain conversions