The 2025 State of Volunteer Management: What I'm Seeing in the Field
· 5 min read
As we wrap up 2025, I've been reflecting on the conversations I've had with volunteer coordinators across the country. Whether I'm onboarding a new organization onto myTRS or catching up with longtime clients, one theme keeps emerging: the way we manage volunteers is fundamentally changing—and those who adapt are thriving.
TL;DR
- Intelligent automation is reducing volunteer placement time by hours weekly—smart matching is now the baseline expectation
- Mobile-first is mandatory: 39% of nonprofits use mobile for volunteer management; those who don't are losing volunteers
- System integration between volunteer and donor platforms unlocks powerful engagement insights
- Gamification works when done thoughtfully—focus on recognition and belonging, not competition
- Action for 2026: Audit your mobile experience, identify one integration opportunity, and ask volunteers where the friction points are