Engaging the next generation: what youth want from volunteering today with Chris Efford
As the volunteer landscape evolves in 2026, so must our strategies. Join Rosterfy for a curated series of high-impact Lunch and Learns designed to equip volunteer managers with the tools to thrive in a changing world. We are bringing together industry thought leaders to deconstruct complex challenges from leveraging data in recruitment to mastering retention.
In this kōrero, hear from Chris Efford. Chris, OStJ, JP, is a senior community and youth-sector leader based on New Zealand’s West Coast. He holds national and regional leadership roles with Hato Hone St John and serves as Chief Executive of Family Start West Coast/Buller, bringing extensive experience in youth development, volunteer leadership, and social services.
NZ LUNCH AND LEARN WEBINAR SERIES
Engaging the next generation: what youth want from volunteering today with Chris Efford
Host: Kelsey Mulcahy, Volunteer Systems Specialist at Rosterfy
Guest: Chris Efford, Senior Community and Youth-Sector Leader Hato Hone St John and Chief Executive of Family Start West Coast/Buller
Date: Tue, Feb 10, 2026
Time: 12:00PM - 12:30PM NZST
Webinar Overview: Hear an insightful Lunch & Learn discussion including a Q&A with Chris Efford,
Young people in 2026 aren't just looking for "hours"—they are looking for connection, mental health benefits, and legitimate career pathways. They are digital natives who demand flexibility and genuine community.
In this focused Lunch & Learn, we are decoding the "Participation Paradox." We will explore why young people are hyper-aware of social causes but harder than ever to pin down for traditional shifts, and exactly how you can adapt your program to meet them where they are.
Key Takeaways from the Webinar:
1. Understanding the ever-changing climate of young people in the volunteering sectorUnderstand the psychological drivers of Gen Z and Gen Alpha. We’ll move beyond stereotypes to discuss the rise of "micro-volunteering," the demand for mental health-conscious environments, and why flexibility is now a non-negotiable.
2. How to attract young people to volunteer for your organisation
How to cut through the digital noise. Learn strategies to gamify recruitment, leverage "influence" over "advertising," and create role descriptions that scream value rather than obligation.
3. Retaining young people in volunteer roles
Young volunteers don't stay out of loyalty; they stay for growth. How to structure "Volunteer-to-Career" pathways and mentorship models that turn one-off event volunteers into long-term leaders.
Successful Volunteer Recruitment: The Definitive Guide
Want to better understand how to future proof your volunteer recruitment?
Go beyond simply filling opportunities and build a robust volunteer program by engaging with the next generation of volunteers and ensuring diversity throughout your program.
Provide a world class volunteer experience
