K-Space Toolkit for Follow-up trainings

Table of contents

Educational spiral

Volunteers’ preferences

Volunteers' motivation

Keeping in touch with volunteers

Promotion & communication (post-arrival)

Checklist

K-Space Toolbox

Explore

Keeping in touch with volunteers

If volunteers attend only one workcamp, they won’t feel part of the sending organization. Volunteers need more opportunities to meet throughout the year.

„…if I go somewhere, for example as a camp-leader or by participating in multiple events, I think that helps to feel more part of your organization.“

After returning from the workcamp, the most helpful things for volunteers to stay involved with their sending organization were to receive regular information about participation opportunities and to get a discount for the next workcamp. In an open-ended question about what would help respondents to get involved in other volunteer activities, respondents mentioned effective communication, knowing the options, being informed about the possibilities in their area/environment, training and financial support or opportunities in their place of residence.

Our findings

Information and Communication:

Clear and accessible information: Respondents across all countries emphasized the need for clearer information about available opportunities, including details, schedules, and contact data.

Targeted communication: Suggestions included recruitment days, online presentations, and regular email invitations to raise awareness and attract potential participants.

Logistical Support:

Flexible participation: Options that fit diverse schedules and time constraints were mentioned in Hungary.

Local network and support: Providing logistical support, connecting participants with local networks, and addressing potential concerns regarding transportation or accommodation were highlighted in Hungary.

Additional Incentives:

Training and financial support: These were mentioned in Hungary as potential motivators.

Community and social aspects: An open-minded and welcoming community environment was seen as a positive factor in Hungary.

Meaningful projects and personal impact: The opportunity to contribute to impactful projects and utilize the skills gained from previous experiences was mentioned in Hungary.

Specific Suggestions:

Recognition of volunteering: Integrating volunteering into school curriculums was proposed in the Czech Republic.

Online platforms and apps: Utilizing online platforms to showcase opportunities and facilitate registration was suggested in the Czech Republic.

Regional focus: Providing information and opportunities tailored to participants' local areas was mentioned in both the Czech Republic and Germany.

Exchange and mentorship: Connecting with other volunteers and having access to mentors were seen as helpful in Germany.

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Hungary:

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Czech Republic:

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Germany:

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Recommendations

By addressing these diverse needs and preferences, organizations can create a more inviting and accessible environment for continued volunteer engagement after workcamps.

The research outlines several strategies to encourage workcamp participants to remain actively involved after their initial experience:

Regional Action and Local Partnerships:

Organize low-commitment regional events or "satellite" activities in collaboration with local NGOs. These could be one-day projects, post-project reflection sessions, or social gatherings, occurring 2-3 times per year.

Remote and Online Opportunities:

Provide options for remote or online participation, catering to individuals with limited time or geographical constraints.

Strengthening the Returnee Network:

Foster a stronger network among returning volunteers, leveraging the power of peer motivation and support.

Tailored Communication:

Create a dedicated newsletter or briefing specifically for returning volunteers, keeping them informed about relevant opportunities and updates.

Virtual Connections:

Organize online gatherings to maintain a sense of community and connection among geographically dispersed volunteers.

By implementing these strategies, your organization can create a supportive environment that facilitates continued engagement beyond the initial workcamp experience, empowering volunteers to remain active contributors within their communities.

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Our findings

Information and Communication:

Logistical Support:

Additional Incentives:

Specific Suggestions:

Recommendations

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