Course Overview
This comprehensive course equips learners with essential skills and knowledge to effectively recruit, onboard, engage, retain, and recognize volunteers within nonprofit organizations (NPOs). Participants will explore the foundational principles and practical strategies needed to build and sustain positive volunteer relationships, enhance volunteer satisfaction and maximize volunteer impact within their organizations.
Course Details
Format: This course is delivered online in an asynchronous format, allowing participants to learn and complete coursework at their own pace.
Duration: 4 weeks
Course Date Options:
- January 4 - January 28, 2027
- April 1 - April 28, 2027
Weekly Commitment: Approximately 3 hours per week
Cost: $375
- Course materials are provided online. Printed course materials are also available for an additional $99 per course.
Available Discounts
- Current Trent University Undergraduate students qualify for a 40% discount. Contact microcredential@trentu.ca for details.
- Trent University alumni receive a 10% discount. Contact alumni@trentu.ca for details.
Only one discount may be applied per registration.
Credential Earned: Digital Badge
Course Instructor: Carey McMaster, Capacity Building Specialist
Part of a Larger Credential
This micro-credential is one of nine courses that make up the Nonprofit Management Essentials Milestone-Badge. Complete all nine courses to earn the Milestone-Badge and develop well-rounded expertise in nonprofit leadership and management.
Interested in pursuing the full program? Learn more about the Milestone-Badge and its nine-course pathway, or register for the full program.
Registration
Ready to register?
Note for Trent University Staff
Permanent OPSEU employees at Trent University are now eligible for tuition waivers for Trent University micro-credential courses. Please do not register or pay through this page. Visit Support → Human Resources / Payroll / Waivers → Micro-Credential - Staff for waiver and registration instructions.
Funding Opportunities
Participants may be eligible for financial assistance through OSAP or the Ontario Job Grant, which provides funding support for employers investing in employee training.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the foundations of volunteer management, including the role and value of volunteers in nonprofit organizations (NPOs), as well as key legal considerations and ethical guidelines.
- Develop strategies for engaging volunteers through effective recruitment and selection processes that align with organizational needs and volunteer interests.
- Implement onboarding and capacity building practices, including orientation and training programs, to equip volunteers with the skills and knowledge necessary for their roles.
- Apply strategies for sustaining engagement through volunteer retention initiatives, recognition programs, and ongoing support.
- Build positive relationships with volunteers through effective communication, conflict resolution, and volunteer feedback mechanisms.
Course Lessons
Lesson 1: Foundations of Volunteer Management
- Role of volunteers in NPOs and their impact
- Legal and ethical considerations in volunteer management
- Volunteer management policies and procedures
Lesson 2: Engaging Volunteers - Recruitment & Selection Strategies
- Identifying volunteer needs and roles
- Effective recruitment strategies and messaging
- Selection processes and screening methods
Lesson 3: Onboarding & Capacity Building - Orientation & Training for Volunteers
- Designing volunteer orientation programs
- Training volunteers for their roles and responsibilities
- Developing ongoing capacity-building initiatives
Lesson 4: Sustaining Engagement - Volunteer Retention & Recognition
- Factors influencing volunteer retention
- Implementing recognition and appreciation strategies
- Addressing challenges and enhancing volunteer satisfaction
Lesson 5: Building Positive Relationships with Volunteers
- Effective communication with volunteers
- Conflict resolution and problem-solving
- Soliciting and responding to volunteer feedback
View the full course curriculum.
Assessment Requirements
This course is graded on a Complete/Incomplete basis. To earn the micro-credential, participants must successfully complete:
- Active participation in online discussions
- Lesson-based assessments, such as quizzes, reflections, or case studies
Admission Requirements
Prerequisites
No formal prerequisites are required. Familiarity with basic business principles and not-for-profit organizations is helpful but not necessary.
Tax Receipt Information
Students may be eligible to receive a T2202 Tuition and Enrolment Certificate if their micro-credential meets Canada Revenue Agency requirements.
To qualify, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in a qualifying educational program that provides at least 12 hours of instruction within a calendar month.
- Pay a minimum course fee of $150.
- Not receive a grant, reimbursement, benefit, or allowance for the program from an arm’s length party that would make the program ineligible under CRA guidelines.
Earn a Digital Badge
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a verified digital badge that can be shared on LinkedIn, resumes, portfolios, and professional profiles.