As technology continues to evolve, so does the way nonprofits connect with volunteers. With Gen Z—those born between 1997 and 2012—becoming a major part of the workforce and an active force in social change, nonprofits need to rethink their volunteer strategies. Gen Z has been raised in the digital era and expects volunteer opportunities to be easily accessible, impactful, and straightforward. This shift necessitates a reevaluation of how nonprofits connect with the digital-native volunteers of today.
To successfully engage Gen Z volunteers, nonprofits should move away from traditional recruitment models and meet them where they already are—both online and in ways that align with their values and expectations.
1. Use Social Media to Recruit Volunteers
Gen Z spends much of their time online, and nonprofits need to reach them on platforms they already use:
⭐ Short-form videos on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts showcasing real volunteer experiences and impact.
⭐ Authentic storytelling through behind-the-scenes clips, testimonials, and user-generated content.
⭐ Interactive engagement like Instagram polls, Twitter (X) threads, and Reddit Ask Me Anythings (AMAs) where organizations can answer questions in real time.
To attract Gen Z volunteers, nonprofits should focus on social media-driven outreach instead of relying on emails and traditional sign-up forms.
2. Make Volunteering Flexible and On-Demand
Gen Z values flexibility and convenience, so offering rigid, long-term commitments may discourage them from getting involved. To increase participation:
⭐ Provide virtual volunteering options like social media advocacy, content creation, or online mentoring.
⭐ Offer short-term, impact-driven opportunities that fit their busy schedules.
⭐ Allow drop-in shifts or “volunteer when available” models instead of requiring set schedules.
Gen Z is more likely to volunteer when opportunities fit their lifestyle and align with their personal skills and interests.
3. Create a Values-Driven Volunteer Experience
Gen Z volunteers because they care about making a difference, not just to fulfill a requirement. To keep them engaged, nonprofits should:
⭐ Show real impact through updates, dashboards, and social media posts.
⭐ Be transparent about how their contributions support the cause.
⭐ Offer skill-building and leadership roles so volunteering also benefits their personal and professional growth.
Nonprofits that highlight issues Gen Z is passionate about—such as mental health advocacy and community-driven change—will see the most engagement.
4. Prioritize Instant, Digital-First Communication
Gen Z rarely checks emails and prefers fast, mobile-friendly communication. To keep them engaged:
⭐ Use text messages or WhatsApp for quick volunteer sign-ups.
⭐ Engage through social media DMs and interactive content.
⭐ Offer an online volunteer hub or app where they can access schedules, updates, and opportunities on demand.
A mobile-first approach is essential to keep Gen Z volunteers engaged and informed.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Volunteer Engagement
Gen Z is reshaping what it means to be an active volunteer. Nonprofits that embrace digital tools, communicate impact effectively, and offer flexible opportunities will thrive in the evolving volunteer landscape.
Where to Start: Practical Steps for Engaging Gen Z Volunteers
If your nonprofit is looking to attract more Gen Z volunteers but isn’t sure where to begin, start small and focus on digital engagement.
⭐ Establish a social media presence on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube Shorts to showcase your impact.
⭐ Experiment with interactive content like polls, Q&A sessions, and behind-the-scenes videos.
⭐ Optimize your volunteer sign-up process—make it quick, mobile-friendly, and easy to access.
⭐ Survey young volunteers or host a focus group to understand what they want in a volunteer experience.
⭐ Listen to feedback and adapt your approach to create a volunteer program that resonates with Gen Z.
Is your nonprofit ready for the future of volunteering?