Fundraising works best when it isn’t a solo job. One person trying to handle everything from prospecting and outreach to events and stewardship can only carry it so far. Building a volunteer fundraising team helps spread the workload, expand your reach, and bring new energy and ownership to your mission.
This two-part series walks through how to build that team. In Part 1, we’ll break down the key roles volunteers can play across your fundraising efforts. In Part 2, we’ll share how to recruit the right people, match them to roles, and keep them engaged along the way.
Why Fundraising Volunteers Matter
For many nonprofits, especially in early growth stages, volunteers can play an important role in strengthening fundraising capacity. A well-structured volunteer team isn’t a replacement for professional staff; it’s a way to build momentum, test systems, and begin scaling your fundraising efforts. As your organization grows, professional staff will continue to guide, support, and engage volunteers as part of a larger fundraising strategy.
With a clear plan, good tools, and the right people in place, you can begin building the kind of shared fundraising culture that supports long-term growth.
6 Key Areas Where Volunteers Can Fuel Fundraising
Fundraising has many moving parts. Volunteers don’t need to do everything; they just need to know where they fit and how they can help. Here are six areas where volunteers can make a real difference:
1. Prospecting
Volunteers can help surface potential donors from their own networks, businesses, or community circles. This is a natural fit for connectors and networkers. Support them with:
Prospect worksheets or simple forms
Clear guidance on who you’re trying to reach
Sample emails or talking points for introductions
2. Messaging
Some volunteers bring creative skills you can tap into for campaign communications. They can help:
Draft emails or letters
Record short videos or testimonials
Share posts on social media
3. Relationship-Building
Supporters who enjoy personal outreach can:
Send handwritten notes or cards
Check in with donors before or after events
Host informal coffee chats or facility tours
4. Making the Ask
While not everyone is comfortable with direct asks, some volunteers are natural fundraisers. They can:
Join peer-to-peer campaigns
Co-host house parties or fundraising events
Invite their own contacts to give
Tip: Practice asking together! It helps build confidence.
5. Follow-Up
Volunteers who love details and follow-through are perfect for:
Sending thank-you notes or messages
Tracking pledge fulfillment and reminders
Keeping communication warm between campaigns
6. Stewardship
Ongoing donor care is essential. Volunteers can help:
Share impact updates
Highlight donor stories
Invite donors to special briefings or celebrations
Start Small, Build Smart
You don’t need to fill every role at once. Start by matching volunteers to the roles that fit their skills, interests, and comfort levels. In Part 2, we’ll walk through how to recruit, structure micro-roles, and keep your fundraising volunteers engaged over time.
Part 2 – Recruiting and Supporting Fundraising Volunteers [link]
Need help getting your fundraising systems in place before your next campaign?
The Greater Sum works with nonprofits to build teams, tools, and strategies that grow with you. Apply for our free Virtual Incubator Program if you’re running an early-stage nonprofit and want to build for growth.
