Gamification Done Right: Engaging Volunteers Without Being Gimmicky
· 7 min read
TL;DR
- Gamification taps into psychology: recognition, progress tracking, and community connection—not manipulation
- Avoid common pitfalls: competition that creates stress, trivializing work, recognition without substance, ignoring intrinsic motivation
- Design authentic recognition: celebrate real accomplishments, make progress visible, create opt-in elements, keep it simple
- Practical milestones work: hour-based tiers (25/50/100/250/500), tenure badges, event-specific recognition, team achievements
- Recognition should honor service, not cheapen it—the 500-hour volunteer deserves acknowledgment