From Nice to Necessary: Unleashing the Impact of Volunteering Through Transformative Investment

Nonprofits face increasingly challenging times, being asked to do more than ever. The demand for services delivered by volunteers is soaring. However, the systems that make volunteering possible are under-resourced and over-trained. Volunteers don’t just lend a hand; they build stronger communities. Individuals who volunteer are also more likely to vote, join civic organizations, donate and stay engaged.

At Points of Light, we believe volunteering is one of the most powerful tools we have to strengthen communities. That’s why we commissioned this report — From Nice to Necessary: Unleashing the Impact of Volunteering Through Transformative Investment– informed by research conducted by The Bridgespan Group, a global nonprofit advisory firm. It sheds new light on the essential role volunteers play in the success of the nonprofit and social sectors, as well as the urgent need for greater investment in volunteer engagement and infrastructure.