Ensuring Volunteer Engagement and Retention in Global Networks

Ensuring Volunteer Engagement and Retention in Global Networks

Author: Dr. Anna Neya Kazanskaia

Publisher: NEYA Global | NEYA Global Publishing
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5669-1676

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-gv-dt.009

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About the Article

This article explores strategies for sustaining volunteer engagement and retention in global networks. It identifies the drivers of motivation, including meaningful roles, communication, professional development, recognition, and flexible scheduling. The analysis emphasizes proactive support systems such as mentorship, wellness initiatives, and feedback loops, which prevent disengagement and enhance volunteer loyalty. Drawing on case studies from Crisis Text Line, Translators Without Borders, UN Volunteers, and other organizations, the article demonstrates that inclusive and adaptive engagement strategies are critical to long-term sustainability. It concludes that investing in recognition, professional growth, and responsive support builds resilient volunteer communities capable of delivering enduring social impact.

Key Topics

  • Drivers of volunteer engagement (meaningful roles, communication, training, flexibility)
  • Recognition strategies and their role in retention
  • Addressing concerns through feedback and conflict resolution
  • Building community via peer support, mentorship, and wellness initiatives
  • Case studies from global organizations (Crisis Text Line, TWB, UNV, Habitat for Humanity, Teach For All)
  • Strategic importance of engagement and retention for sustainability

Academic Value

The article contributes to the literature on volunteer management and organizational sustainability by integrating motivation theory with practical engagement strategies. It provides academics and practitioners with frameworks and case evidence for building long-term commitment in global volunteer networks.

Suggested Citation

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Ensuring Volunteer Engagement and Retention in Global Networks. NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-gv-dt.009

References

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Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Ensuring volunteer engagement and retention in global networks. Neya Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies.
https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-gv-dt.009

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Global Volunteering with Digital Tools. NEYA Global Publishing.
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Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Motivating & Retaining Online Volunteers. NEYA Global Publishing.
https://doi.org/10.64357/motivating-retaining-online-volunteers-2025

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Preventing burnout: Strategies for volunteers and staff. NEYA Global Publishing.
https://doi.org/10.64357/burnout-prevention-2025

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Recruiting and onboarding global volunteers. Neya Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies.
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Sherraden, M. S., Lough, B. J., & McBride, A. M. (2008). Effects of international volunteering and service: Individual and institutional predictors. Voluntas: International Journal of Voluntary and Nonprofit Organizations, 19(4), 395-421.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11266-008-9072-x

United Nations Volunteers (UNV). (2020). State of the World's Volunteerism Report. Bonn: UNV.

Wilson, J. (2012). Volunteerism research: A review essay. Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly, 41(2), 176-212.
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https://neyaglobal.com/journal-nonprofit/ensuring-volunteer-engagement-and-retention-in-global-networks
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September 18, 2025