Retention Starts with Relationships

Volunteering has always been about people – giving time, skills, and energy for the benefit of others. But beyond the act of service itself, one of the strongest drivers of long-term volunteer commitment, happiness, and wellbeing lies in the relationships that volunteers form along the way. Whether it’s the bonds with fellow volunteers, leaders, or the people they serve, these connections often shape the volunteer experience as much as the tasks themselves. In fact, research and practice consistently show that volunteers who feel connected are not only more likely to stay but also experience greater personal fulfilment and wellbeing.

Relationships as the Heart of Retention

Organisations sometimes focus heavily on role design, training, or recognition programmes to keep volunteers engaged. While these are important, relationships often play an even greater role in whether a volunteer chooses to continue.

When volunteers feel part of a team, they are more likely to show up consistently. A welcoming environment fosters trust, and trust leads to loyalty. Volunteers who feel seen, heard, and valued as people – not just as contributors – develop a sense of belonging that ties them to the organisation in meaningful ways.

Conversely, a lack of connection can quickly lead to disengagement. A volunteer who doesn’t know anyone, feels isolated, or perceives that no one notices their efforts may eventually drift away. Retention, then, is not simply about the work being done; it is about cultivating human connection around the work.

The Role of Social Connection in Happiness

For many volunteers, happiness is less about the tasks completed and more about the relationships built. Humans are social beings, and volunteering offers a unique space where friendships can form organically around shared values and goals.

Working side by side with others creates opportunities for casual conversations, shared laughter, and mutual support. These interactions often spill over into deeper friendships outside of volunteering. Having these social connections makes volunteering not only enjoyable but also something to look forward to.
A volunteer who associates their role with positive social experiences is far more likely to describe their volunteering as a source of joy. In contrast, if a role feels lonely or transactional, it may fail to provide the sense of fulfilment volunteers are seeking.

Wellbeing Benefits of Strong Volunteer Relationships

Relationships formed in volunteering also contribute directly to wellbeing. Studies consistently highlight that social connection is a protective factor for both mental and physical health. Volunteering provides opportunities for people to combat loneliness, feel purposeful, and develop a support network.

Older volunteers, for example, often describe their involvement as a lifeline that keeps them socially active and engaged. Younger volunteers may find mentoring relationships that help them grow personally and professionally. For people of all ages, the emotional support gained from relationships within volunteering can reduce stress, build resilience, and foster a stronger sense of self-worth.

Moreover, volunteering creates intergenerational and cross-cultural connections that broaden perspectives and increase empathy. These kinds of relationships enrich wellbeing by deepening understanding of others and building a sense of collective responsibility.

The Role of Leaders in Fostering Connection

Leaders of volunteers play a pivotal role in shaping relationship-building opportunities. They set the tone for inclusiveness and create the conditions under which volunteers can connect with one another. Simple practices – such as facilitating introductions, encouraging teamwork, or creating spaces for social interaction – can make a significant difference.

Recognition also plays a part. A leader who knows each volunteer’s name, acknowledges their contributions, and checks in personally builds stronger bonds than one who focuses solely on tasks. When volunteers feel that their leader genuinely cares about them, the relationship becomes a source of encouragement that keeps them engaged.

Practical Ways to Build Relationships in Volunteering

Organisations can intentionally design volunteer programmes with relationships in mind. Some practical strategies include:

• Buddy systems: Pairing new volunteers with experienced ones helps build connections from the start.

• Team-based roles: Structuring opportunities so volunteers work together, rather than in isolation, fosters natural social interactions.

• Regular gatherings: Social events, reflection sessions, or even shared tea breaks strengthen bonds beyond the work itself.

• Shared learning: Training workshops and skill-sharing sessions not only build capability but also deepen trust and camaraderie.

• Feedback and dialogue: Creating spaces for volunteers to share their experiences and ideas encourages open communication and mutual respect.

These approaches ensure that relationships are not left to chance but are intentionally nurtured as part of the volunteer experience.

Beyond Retention – The Ripple Effect

Strong volunteer relationships don’t just improve retention, happiness, and wellbeing – they also ripple out to strengthen communities. Volunteers who feel connected are more motivated, more reliable, and more likely to serve as ambassadors for the organisation. Their enthusiasm attracts new volunteers, strengthens public trust, and contributes to a culture of care.

At the same time, the people served by volunteers benefit from more compassionate, consistent, and empathetic support. When volunteers bring not only their skills but also their humanity into their roles, the impact multiplies. Communities thrive when relationships – not just tasks – are at the centre of volunteer work.

Conclusion

At its core, volunteering is about people coming together to make a difference. While roles, structures, and recognition matter, the relationships built along the way are what truly sustain volunteers. These connections keep people coming back, bring joy to the experience, and nurture wellbeing in ways that go far beyond the act of service.

For organisations, the message is clear: if you want to retain volunteers, prioritise relationships. Create spaces for connection, encourage meaningful interactions, and recognise the humanity of each volunteer. In doing so, you not only strengthen your volunteer programme but also contribute to the happiness and wellbeing of the people who make it all possible.