Your youth program depends on dedicated and passionate staff to make a difference in kids’ lives. Whether paid employees or volunteers, staff members deserve to see their value and feel great about the work they’re doing. This is especially crucial in the nonprofit space, where rates of burnout and turnover are high. Did you know employees are 73 percent less likely to feel burned out when their efforts are recognized?
Learn how you can help each member of your staff feel valued and appreciated for the work they do each day to fulfill your program mission.
It can be easy to lose sight of the big picture and wonder whether your work matters. Ensure staff members know their hard work is valued by asking parents, guardians, and kids to send in a short message about a teacher or volunteer they love. Ask them to share specific words of encouragement or examples of how a staff member has made a difference in their lives. Then pass these words of praise along and see the way it enhances staff’s confidence and renews their passion.
Social media can provide a great way to raise awareness of your program and increase family engagement. It’s also a great tool for shouting out your staff. Use your social channels to put the spotlight on individual team members (just be sure to get their permission first). If they’re comfortable with it, post a photo and share some fun facts about them or simply praise them for their dedication and positive attitude.
Learn more about the best ways to leverage social media in our Social Media Toolkit for Youth Programs!
When you want to say thank you in a tangible way, gift cards are a great team appreciation idea. You can use an occasion like the end of the year or term to thank all your staff in this way, or you can provide gift cards on an individual basis to recognize special efforts, accomplishments, or milestones. See if local businesses like coffee shops or restaurants would be willing to donate gift certificates or sponsor them at a discounted rate. If you’re working with a tight budget, remember that even an affordable value like $10 or $15 can still feel like a special token of appreciation beyond just a thank you card.
In addition to encouraging your staff to practice self-care, why not provide a pamper session to show your appreciation? Bring in massage therapists, nail technicians, or other professionals to provide their services so staff can relax. You could also opt for group activities like a yoga or meditation session. See whether any local spas, salons, or wellness centers will donate their time or provide a discounted rate. Offer to tag the business in a social media post to help them gain exposure and thank them for their sponsorship.
Retention can be a challenge for any employer, and especially for nonprofits because this sector has an exceptionally high turnover rate. If someone’s been with your program for an impressive length of time, take the opportunity to acknowledge their commitment and celebrate all they’ve contributed to your organization. Even something as simple as a mention in your newsletter can show you care and appreciate their tenure.
You can also show your appreciation by planning fun events or outings, which also serve to promote collaboration and a positive work environment. For example, you could work together to break out at a local escape room, or you could host a game night or team-building activity on-site. You may even want to provide a few ideas and let staff vote on their favorite.
In addition to implementing fun, one-off staff appreciation ideas, you need to demonstrate an ongoing commitment to investing in your staff. One of the most valuable ways you can show appreciation for your team is by actively supporting their development. Staff members want ways to advance their skills and talents, so you must offer professional development opportunities. Provide trainings or helpful resources, and track the results of your professional development so you can celebrate the wins and encourage your staff further.
Showing your appreciation increases your staff’s confidence and enhances the quality of your program.
Want some practical tools and resources to help? Arly empowers youth programmers like you to collect and share words of appreciation, provide professional development, and track the results. We’re also here to provide insights into how you can enhance your program.