Out of the Box: Fresh Strategies for Recruiting Today’s Volunteers

Still using the same volunteer recruitment methods and wondering why they are not working anymore? Come and learn how to rethink your method

Martin J. Cowling is a powerful and engaging voice in volunteering, leadership and community impact. Internationally recognised as a leading speaker, he inspires audiences with practical wisdom, bold ideas and a deep belief in people centred organisations.

Completely re-think the way you engage with your community, and explore modern recruitment techniques and retention strategies to engage volunteers.

Out of the Box is a high-energy, practical workshop designed for volunteer managers and coordinators who want real solutions—not theory. You’ll explore modern recruitment techniques, smarter retention strategies, and new ways to build meaningful, lasting relationships with your volunteer community

By the end of the workshop, participants will:

1. Surface their own current concerns and pain points around recruiting volunteers.
2. Explore the seven big recruitment challenges that are shaping today’s environment.
3. See what’s actually working elsewhere – real examples of successful volunteer recruitment in recent years.
4. Learn practical strategies and tools they can apply straight away in their own programs.
5. Start shaping a simple, tailored recruitment plan they can take back to their organisation and implement.
6. Leave feeling clearer, more confident and better equipped to tackle their recruitment challenges.

If you manage volunteers and want better engagement, stronger retention, and a program that actually works in today’s world—this workshop is for you.