Maximising volunteer engagement and fundraising potential through technology

For the non-profit sector, technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing volunteer engagement and maximising fundraising potential. From streamlining communication and boosting donation efforts to creating more inclusive and diverse volunteer programs, the power of technology is reshaping how organisations connect with their communities.

However, for these efforts to be truly successful, it’s essential that organisations not only leverage technology but do so in a way that is inclusive and reflective of the diversity within their communities.

What volunteering tech trends to look out for in 2025

If you’re short on time, here’s a few key pointers for your volunteer programme in 2025, what to look out for, how to prepare for the changes on the horizon.

• Representation will play a key role in 2025. It impacts donations and initial engagement with your cause so ensure your programme is a fair representation of the community you serve by introducing systems to report and review the equality and diversity of your programme.
• Integrating your donation data with your volunteer engagement will help you build a better picture of not just how much you can raise but where to find your future donors.
• Increased usage if Ai in the nonprofit sector will greatly impact fundraising. AI will take the guess work out of where to find opportunities to increase donations and convincing virtual assistants will take on some of the leg work when it comes to fielding questions and requests.

The role of technology in maximising volunteer engagement

At the heart of the transformation of the volunteering sector lies the ability to tell compelling stories, build meaningful relationships, and foster a sense of belonging—elements that technology makes possible in new and innovative ways. Let’s explore how technology can enhance volunteer engagement, support fundraising potential, and promote equality and diversity, with a focus on leading organisations like WaterAid who are using cutting-edge tools to achieve these goals.

Streamlined volunteer recruitment and management

Volunteer programs are at the core of most non-profits, but managing these programs effectively can be a complex task. Volunteer management software, such as Rosterfy, simplifies this process by providing an intuitive platform that helps coordinate and engage volunteers efficiently. Rosterfy’s volunteer management planner is a perfect example of how technology can optimise scheduling, communication, and engagement, ensuring that volunteers are matched to opportunities that align with their skills, preferences, and availability. This software also enables organisations to track volunteer hours, manage event logistics, and send automated reminders, all while improving the volunteer experience.

Engaging volunteers with compelling storytelling

Volunteers are more motivated when they feel personally connected to the cause they are supporting. Non-profits like WaterAid have harnessed the power of storytelling to engage their volunteer base and build stronger relationships. WaterAid uses technology to tell the powerful stories of those they serve, capturing the impact of clean water and sanitation on vulnerable communities. By sharing these stories with their volunteers in an engaging and interactive way, WaterAid not only increases volunteer retention but also encourages a deeper emotional investment in their cause. This storytelling fosters a sense of purpose and pride among volunteers, reinforcing their dedication to the mission.

Encouraging diversity and inclusivity in volunteer programmes

Volunteer programs are more effective when they reflect the diversity of the communities they serve. Technology plays a key role in promoting equality and diversity by allowing organisations to reach out to a broader range of people, ensuring that no one is left behind. For example, digital platforms enable organisations to tailor volunteer opportunities to different demographics—whether by offering flexible roles for working professionals, virtual opportunities for those with mobility challenges, or multilingual volunteer support to accommodate diverse communities.

By embracing inclusive practices through technology, non-profits can create volunteer programs that reflect the rich diversity of their supporters and the communities they serve. This approach ensures that all voices are heard and all individuals feel welcome, leading to more robust, impactful initiatives.

Leveraging technology to maximise fundraising potential

1. Expanding Reach with Online Platforms
   

   Technology has revolutionised how non-profits raise funds. Through online fundraising platforms like GoFundMe, GivenGain, and JustGiving, non-profits can create customised campaigns that reach a global audience. These platforms simplify the donation process, allowing supporters to give directly via digital payment options. The ease of giving, combined with targeted social media outreach, has made online fundraising a powerful tool for non-profits looking to expand their donor base.

2. Using Data to Optimise Campaigns
   In today’s data-driven world, the ability to collect data is crucial for maximising fundraising potential. CRM systems and donor management software, such as Blackbaud or Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud, allow organisations to track donor behaviour, preferences, and giving history. By using this data, non-profits can create personalised appeals and campaigns that resonate with specific donor segments, increasing the likelihood of successful contributions.

3. Crowdfunding and Peer-to-Peer Fundraising
   

   Crowdfunding is another technology-driven fundraising strategy that allows supporters to raise money on behalf of a cause. Platforms like Facebook Fundraisers or JustGiving enable volunteers and donors to create their own fundraising pages, telling their personal stories while raising funds for a cause they care about. This peer-to-peer model taps into personal networks, amplifying the reach of fundraising efforts while creating a sense of ownership and empowerment among participants.

The importance of equality and diversity in volunteer programs

Creating a volunteer program that reflects the diversity of your community goes beyond just being the right thing to do—it enhances the effectiveness and impact of your organisation. When volunteer programs embrace inclusivity and equality, they not only better serve diverse populations but also build stronger, more empathetic teams.

Another helpful metric to measure is volunteer tenure, or the average length of time volunteers stay active with your organisation.

Reaching marginalised communities

By utilising technology, organisations can make their programs more accessible to underrepresented groups. This includes offering virtual volunteering opportunities, ensuring materials are available in multiple languages, and using social media to reach diverse communities. By actively seeking to include people from various backgrounds, organisations are better able to address the needs of the entire community.

Empowering volunteers through technology

Volunteer management systems can help ensure that volunteers are not only being assigned to roles that match their skills but also have the opportunity to learn and grow. With digital learning platforms and online training modules, volunteers can access the knowledge they need to excel, empowering them to take on leadership roles and increase their impact. This empowerment builds a culture of inclusion, where volunteers of all backgrounds can contribute meaningfully.

WaterAid: Using technology to engage volunteers and boost donations

WaterAid, a global non-profit focused on providing clean water and sanitation to vulnerable communities, is an excellent example of how technology can transform volunteer engagement and fundraising efforts.

WaterAid uses Rosterfy’s volunteer management software to streamline the recruitment, scheduling, and communication process, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for their volunteers. Through the use of Rosterfy’s planner, volunteers are seamlessly matched with relevant opportunities, helping them feel connected to the cause.

More on WaterAid’s story here

Top 3 tech trends for volunteer engagement in 2025

1. AI-Powered Volunteer Matching
   

   In the near future, AI algorithms will become increasingly sophisticated in matching volunteers with opportunities that align with their skills, interests, and availability. This automation will make volunteer recruitment more efficient while ensuring that volunteers are placed in roles that truly benefit both the organisation and the volunteer.

2. Virtual and Hybrid Volunteering
   

   With the continued growth of remote work, virtual and hybrid volunteering opportunities are expected to increase in popularity. Technology will enable volunteers to contribute from anywhere in the world, broadening the pool of volunteers and making it easier for organisations to engage individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

3. Blockchain for Transparent Donations
   

   Transparency is becoming an essential part of fundraising. Blockchain technology could revolutionise how donations are tracked and reported, ensuring that every penny donated is accounted for. This will increase donor trust and lead to more confident and larger contributions.

Conclusion

Technology is a driving force in maximising volunteer engagement and fundraising potential, but its real value lies in how it can create more inclusive, diverse, and transparent programs. By leveraging digital tools, organisations can not only streamline operations and improve donor relations but also foster a deeper connection with their volunteers and communities.

As organisations like WaterAid have shown, the integration of technology into volunteer management can create meaningful stories, increase donations, and build a more engaged, inclusive, and diverse volunteer network. Looking ahead, the trends in AI, virtual volunteering, and blockchain promise even greater opportunities to enhance the volunteer experience and fundraising efforts, ensuring a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

About Rosterfy

Rosterfy is used by nonprofits, charities, sporting federations, local governments, and more to better manage their volunteer programs by improving how they can recruit, screen, train, and retain volunteers.

Our market leading technology helps you create an engaging experience throughout the whole lifecycle of your volunteer journey.