With the right software, nonprofits can efficiently manage their volunteers, enhance communication, create opportunities for engagement, and demonstrate the value of their mission to stakeholders. Here are the top 10 volunteer management software solutions in 2024.
Why volunteer management is crucial for nonprofits
Volunteer management is crucial for nonprofits because it allows organizations to effectively recruit, train, schedule, and retain volunteers. Nonprofits heavily rely on volunteers to carry out their missions and achieve their goals. By managing volunteers efficiently, nonprofits can ensure they have the right volunteers in the right positions, resulting in increased productivity and effectiveness. Additionally, streamlined volunteer management can help create a positive volunteer experience, leading to higher volunteer satisfaction and retention.
Furthermore, effective volunteer management allows nonprofits to track and measure the impact of their volunteer programs. By collecting data on volunteer hours, skills, and contributions, organizations can demonstrate the value and outcomes of their work to stakeholders, donors, and the community at large. This data can allow an organization to optimize program planning, resource allocation, and processes.
Benefits of using software for volunteer management
Using a volunteer management software solution offers numerous benefits for nonprofits. Firstly, it can automate and streamline administrative tasks, such as volunteer registration, scheduling, and communication. This saves time and effort for both volunteers and staff, allowing them to focus on the organization's mission.
Most volunteer management solutions provide a centralized database to store and manage volunteer information. This eliminates manual record-keeping and allows for access to volunteer data, such as profiles, skills, and availability. Some volunteer management solutions also provide communication features, such as automated emails, notifications, and reminders that can significantly improve engagement and reduce no-shows.
Additionally, software solutions for volunteer management often include reporting and analytics features. This allows nonprofits to track volunteer hours, generate reports, and analyze data to measure program impact and identify areas for improvement. This data is often used for fundraising, grant applications, and volunteer engagement.
Investing in volunteer management software can improve efficiency, enhance communication, and provide valuable insights for nonprofit organizations.
Volunteer management statistics
- The Independent Sector, a coalition of nonprofits, foundations, and corporate giving programs, estimated the value of a volunteer hour in the United States to be $31.80 in 2023. This figure represents the average hourly value of time volunteered.
- A 2021 Volunteering in America Report found that 60.7M adults (23.2 percent) volunteered 4.1B hours. Economic value was estimated at $122.9B.
- According to a report by Nonprofit Tech for Good, 39% of nonprofits worldwide use mobile technology for volunteer management, and 51% of organizations plan to invest more in technology to improve volunteer engagement.
- Only 55% of nonprofits actively measure volunteer impact.
Key features to look for in volunteer management software
When it comes to selecting volunteer management software, nonprofits need to consider several essential features. First, the software should have a user-friendly interface that is easily navigable for both volunteers and administrators. A well-designed and intuitive interface ensures that volunteers and admins can quickly adapt to and utilize the software effectively.
Additionally, volunteer management software should provide features for volunteer scheduling, registration, sign-up, and reporting. This includes the ability to create and manage volunteer shifts, track availability, form volunteer groups, and generate reports. These features make the process of managing volunteers easier, which is what volunteer management software is supposed to do.
Another feature many organizations look for in a software solution is volunteer engagement tools. Features that enhance engagement would include things like automated communications, rewards and recognition (gamification features), and personalized landing pages.
Lastly, seamless integration with other systems and software is crucial for organizations managing lots of volunteers and volunteer data. For these organizations, integrating with existing databases, fundraising platforms, and other tools can improve data flow, optimize productivity, and save time.
Top 10 volunteer management software for nonprofits.
Volunteer management software can play a crucial role in the success of a nonprofit's volunteer program. These innovative tools not only streamline administrative tasks but also enhance communication, engagement, and data analysis. With the right software, nonprofits can efficiently manage their volunteers, create a positive volunteer experience, and demonstrate the value of their mission to stakeholders. Here is our list of the 10 best volunteer management solutions available, today.
- VolunteerHub
- Better Impact
- CERVIS
- Rosterfy
- Track It Forward
- Galaxy Digital
- Civic Champs
- Golden Volunteer
- Volgistics
- VOMO
VolunteerHub
Since 1996, VolunteerHub has been helping nonprofits better recruit, engage, and manage volunteer constituents. VolunteerHub is a comprehensive volunteer management software that offers features such as volunteer registration, scheduling, communication, kiosk, and reporting. It is highly customizable and scalable to meet the needs of organizations across all nonprofit verticals.
Features include:
- Volunteer Registration
- Volunteer Recruitment
- Volunteer Database
- Volunteer Hour Tracking
- Event Customization
- Volunteer Scheduling
- Waiver Creation & Tracking
- Direct CRM Integration (Blackbaud & Salesforce)
- Online Applications
- Customizable Volunteer Profiles
- Text and Email Reminders
- Standard and Configurable Reporting
- Volunteer Recognition and Gamification
- Kiosk
- Volunteer Waitlists
- Social Media Integration
- Single-Sign-On (SSO) Capable
- Contactless Check-In (Including QR Code Option)
- Volunteer Fundraising
- Zapier Integration
Why VolunteerHub stands out:
- Easy-to-navigate user interface
- Landing pages
- Group segmentation
- Optimized for all devices
- Standard and custom report options
- Industry-leading support
- Gamification features
- Direct CRM integrations with Blackbaud and Salesforce
- Zapier integration (connect VolunteerHub with thousands of apps)
- Tried and true solution since 1996
- Blackbaud Partner
- Partner of the Year - 2014
- Technology Partner of the Year - 2016
- ISV Partner of the Year - 2019
- VolunteerHub is highly recommended by real software users on Capterra, check out the chart below.
Better Impact (Volunteer Impact)
Better Impact is a cloud-based volunteer management software that focuses on creating positive volunteer experiences. It offers functionality for recruitment, scheduling, and reporting and a volunteer portal for communication and engagement. Better Impact has been providing nonprofits with volunteer management software since 2001 and is used by organizations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
Users on Capterra acknowledge the software for ease of use and features for volunteer engagement.
Features include:
- Online Applications
- Customizable Volunteer Profiles
- Track Training and Onboarding
- Volunteer Scheduling
- Text and Email Reminders
- Hours and Outcomes Reporting
- Volunteer Recognition
- Volunteer Portal and App
Comparison to VolunteerHub:
- Both solutions have been providing volunteer management software for years.
- To get the flexibility offered by Better Impacts landing pages, customers would have to go with the Volunteer Impact Enterprise plan, VolunteerHub provides landing page features with all plan types.
- Better Impact's OnSite App is limited and not built for mobile use. VolunteerHub software is optimized for all device types.
- Better Impact does not provide direct integration with CRM solutions such as Salesforce or Blackbaud.
- Better Impact is not on Zapier.
- Better Impact charges an additional fee for one-on-one training during implementation.
- Better Impact charges for the number of landing pages an org uses within their site. In VolunteerHub, admins can create an unlimited amount of landing pages.
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Better Impact does have a way to limit permissions for certain admins.
CERVIS
CERVIS is a web-based volunteer management software that provides tools for volunteer registration, scheduling, and communication and offers features for tracking volunteer hours, generating reports, and managing volunteer data. CERVIS allows volunteers to easily discover and register online for events that align with their interests and availability. CERVIS Technologies was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO.
Users on Capterra acknowledge the software provider for good customer service.
Features include:
- Volunteer Hour Tracking
- Custom Data Reporting
- Text and Email Reminders
- Volunteer Waitlists
- Social Media Integration
- Some CRM Integration Functionality
- Volunteer Screening
- Volunteer Reward and Recognition
Comparison to VolunteerHub:
- While CERVIS references external CRM integration with Blackbaud eTapestry and Salesforce exclusively (on their pricing page), VolunteerHub directly integrates with all Blackbaud CRM solutions and Salesforce.
- VolunteerHub is a Blackbaud Partner.
- VolunteerHub offers Landing Page functionality, that doesn't appear to be a feature of CERVIS.
- Some Capterra reviewers say that CERVIS is great for small organizations, but is not intended for organizations with thousands of volunteers and hundreds of opportunities.
- VolunteerHub offers the ability to create and segment volunteer groups, functionality that doesn't appear to be offered by CERVIS.
Rosterfy
Rosterfy is volunteer management software known for its user-friendly interface and volunteer scheduling capabilities. It offers a range of features for tracking volunteer activities, facilitating communication, generating reports, and integrating with other systems that nonprofits use. Rosterfy has been providing its volunteer management software since 2015.
Features include:
- Volunteer Scheduling
- Volunteer Recruitment
- Volunteer Rewards and Recognition
- Volunteer Hour Tracking
- Text and Email Reminders
- Reporting
Comparison to VolunteerHub:
- Rosterfy doesn't currently offer a QR code option for contactless volunteer check-in.
- Some users on Capterra mention that Rosterfy can be difficult to implement as some coding is required.
- According to users, Rosterfy can be overly complex.
- VolunteerHub provides volunteer group reservation features, but Rosterfy does not.
- Rosterfy is a relatively new software provider, VolunteerHub has been around since 1996.
- Rosterfy's Salesforce integration is more limited than VolunteerHub's.
- Rosterfy and VolunteerHub are both Blackbaud Partners and offer integration.
- Rosterfy pricing starts at $7000 annually, whereas VolunteerHub starts at $1800 per year + set up fee.
- Both software providers offer implementation, training, and ongoing support.
- Rostefy is not on Zapier.
Track It Forward
Track It Forward is a volunteer management software that focuses on tracking and reporting volunteer hours. It provides a simple interface for volunteers to log their hours, while also offering basic features for communication and reporting for organizations. Track it Forward was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in California.
Features include:
- Volunteer Time Tracking
- Single-Sign-On (SSO) Capable
- Reporting
- Kiosk
- Text and Email Reminders
- Offline Mode
- Volunteer Milestones
Comparison to VolunteerHub:
- Track it Forward does not offer landing page functionality.
- Track it Forward is more geared towards smaller nonprofits with limited enterprise features.
- Unlike VolunteerHub, Track it Forward does not mention integration with any CRM solutions.
- Track it Forward offers volunteer milestone and goal-setting features.
- In Track it Forward, you can't customize the start and end time for events (half an hour intervals only).
- Track it Forward does not offer features for volunteer groups.
- Users of both platforms mention ease of use as a benefit.
Galaxy Digital (GetConnected)
Galaxy Digital offers a volunteer management system called Get Connected, designed to help nonprofits with volunteer management, engagement, reporting, and communication. Started as software specifically aimed to help volunteer centers, Get Connected has evolved to provide many of the features that nonprofits need to optimize their volunteer programs. Galaxy Digital was founded in 2009 in Asheville, North Carolina.
Features include:
- Volunteer Scheduling
- Volunteer Time Tracking
- Volunteer Fundraising
- Reporting
- Email Reminders
- Waiver Creation & eSignatures
- Volunteer Profiles
Comparison to VolunteerHub:
- Some GetConnected users on Capterra mentioned that the implementation and setup process was confusing, and customer support was limited.
- Some GetConnected users on Capterra state that the software is challenging for older volunteers to use.
- Both software solution providers (Galaxy Digital & VolunteerHub) prioritize customer feedback.
- Both software solutions integrate with Sterling Volunteers.
- Both software solutions offer group sign-up features, but some GetConnected users report that they are not the easiest to use on that platform.
- VolunteerHub allows users to easily create branded landing pages.
- VolunteerHub provides a consistent, optimized experience on all device types, while some users report that GetConnected mobile admin features are limited.
- VolunteerHub directly integrates with Salesforce, a functionality not currently offered by GetConnected.
- VolunteerHub directly integrates with all Blackbaud CRMs, whereas GetConnected does not.
- There isn't an easy way to track no-shows or cancellations in GetConnected.
- VolunteerHub is on Zapier and can be connected to thousands of applications.
- In GetConnected, volunteers must submit hours for each activity.
Civic Champs
Civic Champs is volunteer management software designed to make a positive impact by helping organizations save time and boost productivity. Founded in 2019 in Bloomington, IN, Civic Champs is relatively new to the volunteer management software space but currently works with dozens of nonprofit organizations across 30 states, including food pantries, homeless shelters, and Rotary clubs.
Features include:
- Volunteer Profiles
- Volunteer Scheduling
- Volunteer Tracking (hours, donations, activities)
- Waiver Creation & Tracking
- Kiosk
- Fundraising features
- Reporting
- Text and Email Reminders
Comparison to VolunteerHub:
- Civic Champs does not reference any rewards, recognition, or gamification features on their website. VolunteerHub provides these features to customers.
- Civic Champs is a relatively new volunteer management software provider (2019), whereas VolunteerHub has been helping nonprofits manage volunteers since 1996.
- For donations, Civic Champs does not integrate with PayPal whereas with VolunteerHub you can use many payment processors, including PayPal to accept donations from volunteers.
- To get the best experience from Civic Champs Kiosk, some users on Capterra say that volunteers have to download the Civic Champs mobile app.
- VolunteerHub is on Zapier and can be connected to thousands of applications.
- Civic Champs requires a third-party connector to integrate with Salesforce, whereas VolunteerHub offers a direct connection.
- VolunteerHub is on Zapier and can be connected to thousands of applications.
Golden Volunteer
Golden Volunteer is a volunteer management platform that helps nonprofits create volunteer opportunities, automate volunteer tracking and reporting, and increase volunteer engagement. The system gives organizations insights into their volunteers, who they are, and what is meaningful to them. Golden Volunteer was founded in 2015.
Features include:
- Volunteer Scheduling
- Volunteer Recruitment
- Volunteer Tracking
- Rewards and Recognition
- CRM Integration
- Background Checks
- Email Reminders
- Text Reminders (Add On)
Comparison to VolunteerHub:
- In Golden Volunteer, all volunteer opportunities are posted on one centralized page making it less configurable for volunteer groups than VolunteerHub's Landing Page functionality.
- Golden offers a self-serve plan for $1200/year but the plan only includes their basic features (scheduling, email notifications, hour tracking, resource hub, and email/chat support). It does not include more robust features found in VolunteerHub's Plus plan. Golden users would need to add additional features at an additional cost.
- Unlike VolunteerHub, Golden Volunteer is not on Capterra or G2Crowd so it is a bit challenging to find real user reviews and experiences with the software.
- Some users on the Google Play store say that the Golden Volunteer app is not user-friendly and that it is hard to find specific volunteer opportunities within the system. VolunteerHub provides a consistent experience for volunteers and admins regardless of the device type.
- Golden Volunteer and VolunteerHub are both Blackbaud Partners and offer integration.
- Both Golden and VolunteerHub integrate with Salesforce.
- VolunteerHub is on Zapier and can be connected to thousands of applications.
- Both platforms offer Kiosk functionality.
- VolunteerHub has contactless check-in features, while Golden Volunteers does not reference having that functionality.
Volgistics
Volgistics is a comprehensive volunteer management software system designed to streamline and enhance the process of coordinating and tracking volunteers within nonprofit organizations. This platform offers a range of features to manage volunteer recruitment, scheduling, communication, and reporting. Volgistics was founded in the 1980s and is based out of Michigan.
Features include:
- Volunteer Scheduling
- Volunteer Recruiting
- Reporting
- Volunteer Profiles
- Kiosk
- Text and Email Reminders
- Volunteer Recognition
- Volunteer Segmentation
- Support
Comparison to VolunteerHub:
- Some Volgistics users on Capterra say that the software can be hard to learn and the implementation process can be daunting as you learn the platform.
- Some Volgistics users on Capterra say that the software UI feels outdated.
- VolunteerHub directly integrates with all Blackbaud CRM solutions and Salesforce, whereas Volgistics does not.
- Volgistics does not offer Landing Page functionality.
- VolunteerHub has a recently refreshed UI.
- The Volgistics feature set and functionality are geared towards smaller nonprofits, whereas VolunteerHub provides features for organizations managing thousands of volunteers.
- Volgistics does not integrate with Google Analytics.
- Volgistics does not offer customizable permissions for various levels of administrative access or volunteer access to features and content, VolunteerHub does.
- Volgistics sends messages for admins to an inbox in their system, requiring administrators to log in and review that inbox to view registrations. In contrast, VolunteerHub can send real-time emails to the admin's personal or work inbox when users register or cancel. Furthermore, all communications to VolunteerHub administrators go directly to their inbox, rather than an in-system inbox.
- Both solutions prioritize the security of data.
- Both organizations have been providing volunteer management software to nonprofits for many years.
VOMO 
VOMO (a Virtuous Company) Volunteer Management Software is a volunteer management platform designed to streamline and enhance the process of organizing and managing volunteers for events, projects, and community initiatives. VOMO, which stands for Volunteer Mobilization, offers a range of features that empower organizations to recruit, schedule, communicate with, and track the impact of their volunteers. The software provides a centralized hub for coordinating volunteer efforts, allowing organizers to create and promote opportunities, assign tasks, and communicate important information to participants. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Plano, Texas.
Features include:
- Volunteer Recruitment
- Text Notifications
- Background Checks
- Configurable Forms
- Kiosk
- Landing Pages
- Single-Sign-On (SSO) Capable
- Social Media Integration
- Salesforce Integration
- Zapier Integration
Comparison to VolunteerHub:
- Both VOMO and VolunteerHub offer Landing Page functionality.
- Both VOMO and VolunteerHub provide group and individual volunteer sign-ups.
- Both VOMO and VolunteerHub integrate with Salesforce CRM.
- Both VOMO and VolunteerHub offer Zapier integration.
- VOMO doesn't offer direct integration with Blackbaud CRMs.
- VOMO does not have any customer reviews on Capterra or G2Crowd.
- VOMO has a 3.5 star rating on the Apple app store with several users mentioning user experience and app support as challenges.
- VOMO does not provide pricing on its marketing site. From what we found, plans start at $99 a month (500 users/volunteers) if paid annually.
- VolunteerHub offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, whereas with VOMO all payments are final and non-refundable.
These are just a few examples of the top volunteer management software solutions available for nonprofits. It's important for organizations to carefully evaluate their needs when selecting the best software solution for them.
Tips for implementing volunteer management software at your organization
Implementing the right volunteer management software can greatly enhance the effectiveness of a nonprofit's volunteer program. Here are some tips to consider if you are in the market for volunteer management software:
1. Clearly define your goals: Before implementing any software, it's important to have a clear understanding of your organization's goals for volunteer management. Are you looking to streamline scheduling, track volunteer hours, or improve communication? Knowing your objectives will help you select the right software that aligns with your needs.
2. Involve key stakeholders: Engage your staff, volunteers, and other key stakeholders in the decision-making process. They can provide valuable insights and perspectives on what features and functionalities are most important to them. By involving them from the start, you can ensure that the software meets their needs and addresses any challenges they may face.
3. Research and compare options: Take the time to research different volunteer management software solutions and compare their features, pricing, and customer reviews. Look for software that offers the specific features you need, such as volunteer scheduling, reporting, and communication tools. Consider the scalability of the software and whether it can grow with your organization's needs.
4. Consider integration capabilities: If your organization already uses other software systems, such as CRM or payment processors, consider how well the volunteer management software integrates with these existing systems.
5. Train your staff and volunteers: Once you have selected a volunteer management software, invest time in training your staff and volunteers on how to use it effectively. Provide clear instructions, tutorials, and ongoing support to ensure everyone understands how to navigate the software and utilize its features. This will help maximize the benefits of the software and minimize any potential challenges.
6. Continuously evaluate and optimize: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the volunteer management software and make adjustments as needed. Seek feedback from your staff and volunteers to identify any areas for improvement or additional features that would enhance their experience. By continuously evaluating and optimizing the software, you can ensure that it remains a valuable tool for your organization's volunteer programs.
By following these tips, nonprofits can successfully implement and optimize volunteer management software to maximize the impact of their volunteer programs and improve overall efficiency.
