Volunteers' Return: Nonprofits Rebound in 2023

After a significant decline during the pandemic, volunteer participation in nonprofits surged in 2023, as individuals sought to reconnect and contribute to their communities. This resurgence was driven by a combination of factors, including the easing of pandemic restrictions, a desire to give back, and the adaptation of nonprofits to accommodate virtual and hybrid volunteering models.

According to a survey by the Do Good Institute, nearly two-thirds of nonprofits reported an increase in demand for their organizational services in 2022. To meet this demand, nonprofits had to rely heavily on volunteers, as many organizations faced reduced staffing capacity and funding. The pandemic also brought about changes in volunteers' personal circumstances, such as job loss and increased caregiving responsibilities, which initially impacted their ability to participate. However, as the pandemic eased, volunteers returned in droves, eager to contribute their time and skills.

To accommodate this resurgence and the evolving preferences of volunteers, nonprofits adapted their volunteer recruitment and onboarding processes to embrace virtual and hybrid volunteering models. The increased use of technology for volunteer management enabled organizations to streamline the volunteer onboarding process, making it more accessible and efficient. Nonprofits also expanded virtual and hybrid volunteering opportunities, allowing volunteers to contribute from anywhere at any time.



The shift to virtual volunteering opportunities during the pandemic had a mixed impact on participation rates, particularly for those with limited access to technology or the internet. While it expanded volunteering options for many, it also presented barriers for others. According to a study by the University of Maryland's Do Good Institute, nearly half of nonprofit CEOs reported that recruiting sufficient volunteers was still a big problem in mid-2022, indicating that virtual volunteering did not fully replace in-person opportunities. However, the same study found that 64.4% of nonprofits reported an increase in demand for their organizational services, suggesting that volunteers returned to nonprofits as the pandemic eased.

To better understand the impact of virtual volunteering on participation rates, it is essential to consider the digital divide and provide accessible, inclusive volunteering options for all. Nonprofits must invest in strategic volunteer engagement, engage funders to support volunteering, and adapt their approaches to meet volunteers' needs and preferences.



In conclusion, the return of volunteers to nonprofits in 2023 is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of both volunteers and the organizations they support. As nonprofits continue to evolve and innovate, they will likely maintain and even grow their volunteer base, enabling them to better serve their communities and advance their missions. By embracing technology and providing accessible, inclusive volunteering opportunities, nonprofits can tap into a larger and more diverse pool of volunteers, ultimately enhancing their capacity to serve communities and address the challenges they face.