The Blog.

by A.J. Steinberg, CFRE of Queen Bee Fundraising When we think about event volunteers, we often picture people committing entire days to help with setup, staffing, and cleanup. And while those roles are essential, there’s a growing trend that’s making it easier for more people to get involved—even if they only have 15 minutes to spare. Welcome to the world of micro-volunteering. What Is Micro-Volunteering? Micro-volunteering refers to short, specific, and flexible opportunities that allow individuals to contribute without making long-term or time-intensive commitments. These bite-sized tasks may only take a few minutes or an hour, but they can have a meaningful impact on the success of your event—and your organization’s ability to engage a wider circle of supporters. Why Micro-Volunteering Works for Events Events are full of moving parts, and not every task requires a full shift or deep training. Micro-volunteering roles allow you to: • Tap into the enthusiasm of people who want to help, but can’t commit to long hours• Involve attendees, donors, or community members who are already planning to be there• Offer entry points for new supporters to experience your mission in action• Reduce the burden on your core volunteer team by distributing small tasks more broadly Plus, micro-volunteering can be a gateway to deeper involvement—many long-term volunteers started by saying “yes” to one small ask. Micro-Volunteering in Action: Ideas for Your Next Event Not sure what micro-volunteering looks like in practice? Here are a few roles that require minimal time but can make a major difference: • Social Media Rovers: Snap photos or short videos during the event and post them using your event hashtag• Greeters: Welcome guests at the entrance for a short 30-minute window• Swag Bag Stuffers: Help assemble giveaways the day before the event• Mission Messengers: Share a quick impact story with guests in line or at a booth• Post-Event Thank You Helpers: Handwrite or stuff thank-you cards during a drop-in session• Online Advocates: Share your event or fundraising link with 10 friends or coworkers Each of these roles helps build momentum, create a warm and engaging atmosphere, and reinforce your mission—without requiring a full-day commitment. Making Micro-Volunteering Work To make micro-volunteering successful, you need to do three things well: 1. Be clear and specific: People are more likely to say yes when they know exactly what they’re being asked to do and how long it will take.2. Make it easy to sign up: Online sign-ups, digital reminders, and drop-in shifts help lower the barrier to entry.3. Show appreciation: Just because a task is small doesn’t mean the gratitude should be. A warm thank-you goes a long way. The Big Picture Micro-volunteering is more than just a convenience—it’s a strategy for inclusivity and engagement. By offering roles that fit different schedules, comfort levels, and skill sets, you welcome more people into your community and create more touchpoints for connection. Because sometimes, it’s the smallest actions that make the biggest difference. ​Want to know more about event coaching? Book a call with me today and I will explain how we can work together to train your staff to plan winning events.​

by A.J. Steinberg, CFRE of Queen Bee Fundraising For many organizations, events are a big lift—demanding all-hands-on-deck energy, tight timelines, and a long list of logistics. Volunteers often play a vital role in making those events possible, and their contributions are invaluable. But here’s the real magic: an event isn’t just a place for volunteers to lend a hand—it’s a powerful entry point for building long-term loyalty. When done right, events can transform one-time helpers into lifelong champions of your mission. The Event Experience: More Than a Shift Volunteers often show up for an event with a limited view: “I’m here to check people in,” or “I’ll helpwith cleanup.” But what if their experience went beyond the task?Imagine if your event: • Connected them emotionally to your cause• Made them feel part of a community• Showed them the impact of their service• Celebrated their time, energy, and heart Now, that’s the kind of experience people want to return to. Events as Volunteer On-Ramps Events are the perfect setting for potential long-term volunteers to: • Get to know your team and values• See your work in action• Discover how they can contribute beyond one day Think of your events as on-ramps to deeper involvement. With a thoughtful approach, thatregistration desk volunteer could become your next monthly donor, committee member, or boardrecruit. Keys to Building Loyalty Through Events Here’s how you turn short-term participation into long-term passion: 1. Set the Stage with PurposeBefore the event, help volunteers understand the “why” behind the event and how their role supportsyour mission. When people understand the purpose behind their tasks, they feel like they’re part ofsomething meaningful. 2. Make It PersonalA personal note from a staff member. A social media shout-out. A quick “We couldn’t have done itwithout you.” These small gestures build big bridges. 3. Welcome Them Like GuestsThe same way you would welcome a donor or sponsor, welcome your volunteers with warmth andclarity. Offer an orientation, introduce them to staff, and create a sense of belonging right from thestart. 4. Show ImpactAfter the event, follow up with more than a generic thank-you. Share what was accomplished: howmuch was raised, how many people were served, or what success looked like. Tie their efforts directlyto the outcome. 5. Invite Them to Stay Involved Too many organizations say “thanks” and then go silent. Keep the connection going! Invite eventvolunteers to future events, ongoing roles, or educational sessions that help them grow with you. Your Next Champion Might Be Wearing a Volunteer Badge Volunteers want to be part of something bigger than themselves. Events are your chance to show themthey are—and that they belong with you long after the lights go down and the tables are packed away.So the next time you host an event, think beyond the day-of duties. Think about how you can make theexperience meaningful, memorable, and motivating. Because one-time helpers are wonderful—butlifelong champions? They’re transformational. ​Want to know more about event coaching? Book a call with me today and I will explain how we can work together to train your staff to plan winning events.​

by A.J. Steinberg, CFRE of Queen Bee Fundraising Every event planner knows the drill: timelines, logistics, checklists, sponsors, signage, catering… the list goes on. But amid all the hustle and bustle, there’s one critical element that too often gets overlooked until the last minute: volunteer roles. When volunteers are treated like an afterthought, the results are predictable—confusion, frustration, missed opportunities, and a guest experience that falls flat. But when you take time to thoughtfully plan and assign volunteer roles, the outcome is entirely different: engaged supporters, smooth execution, and an event that radiates professionalism and heart. The Problem with “Just Show Up and Help” We’ve all seen it—volunteers arrive at an event only to be met with vague instructions like “hang outhere” or “just help where needed.” What begins as enthusiasm quickly fades into uncertainty. Withoutdirection or purpose, volunteers feel disconnected, underutilized, and unlikely to return. This doesn’t just impact the volunteers—it impacts your guests, your staff, and ultimately, the successof your event. The Power of Purposeful Roles Volunteers are most effective when they know:• Exactly what’s expected of them• How their role contributes to the bigger picture• Who to go to with questions• That their time is valued and appreciated A well-thought-out volunteer plan assigns clear, meaningful roles that align with your event goals andenhance the guest experience. It also considers volunteer strengths and interests—because the bestroles are a match between what you need and what they’re excited to offer. Go Beyond the Basics Sure, you’ll need greeters and registration help. But what about more creative, mission-driven rolesthat elevate your event? Think about: • Social Media Ambassadors: capturing and posting real-time moments• Impact Storytellers: chatting with guests about your cause and programs• Experience Hosts: guiding VIP guests or narrating activities in interactive zones• Floaters with Purpose: trained to anticipate needs and jump in where needed, not just “helperson standby” Each of these roles makes your event more dynamic, engaging, and aligned with your mission. A Win-Win for Everyone When you invest in planning meaningful volunteer roles, you: • Strengthen the professionalism and flow of your event• Deepen volunteer satisfaction and likelihood of return• Amplify your mission through enthusiastic, informed advocates• Reduce stress and confusion on event day The best part? Volunteers who feel valued and empowered often become some of your most loyalsupporters—returning not just for events, but as donors, ambassadors, and champions of your work. Plan for People, Not Just Logistics As you plan your next event, move volunteer coordination to the top of your priority list. Treatvolunteers like the strategic partners they are—not just extra hands, but essential voices and hearts inyour mission. Because in the end, a well-run event isn’t just about great programming—it’s about the people whomake it all happen. And your volunteers? They deserve to be more than an afterthought. ​Want to know more about event coaching? Book a call with me today and I will explain how we can work together to train your staff to plan winning events.​

by A.J. Steinberg, CFRE of Queen Bee Fundraising Every successful event—whether it’s a fundraising gala, a community festival, a charity walk, or a school carnival—has one thing in common: a team of dedicated volunteers working behind the scenes to bring it all to life. From greeting guests and managing registration tables to setting up décor and solving last-minute hiccups, volunteers are the unsung heroes who turn plans into unforgettable experiences. While event planners may design the blueprint, it’s the volunteers who breathe life into every detail. More Than Just “Helping Hands” Volunteers aren’t just filler for gaps in staffing. They are ambassadors for your mission and stewardsof your guest experience. The energy, warmth, and enthusiasm they bring can make the differencebetween an event that feels transactional and one that feels transformational. Here’s the truth: people may not remember what you said on stage, but they’ll remember how they feltwalking into your event. And that feeling often starts with the volunteer who welcomed them with asmile, helped them find their seat, or made sure everything ran smoothly behind the curtain. Empowered Volunteers = Exceptional Events Want your volunteers to shine? Treat them like the vital team members they are. That means: • Clear communication about their roles and responsibilities• Proper training so they feel confident and prepared• Recognition and appreciation during and after the event• Meaningful roles that allow them to see the impact of their contribution When volunteers feel seen, valued, and empowered, they don’t just perform well—they becomeinvested. They become repeat supporters, enthusiastic promoters, and even future donors or boardmembers. Volunteers as Culture Carriers Your volunteers are often the first and last people your guests interact with. That makes them powerfulcarriers of your organization’s culture and values. If you want your event to leave a lasting impression,start by making sure your volunteers are aligned with your mission—and excited to share it. Encourage them to be storytellers. Invite them to share why they’re giving their time. That authenticityshines through and adds depth to your event’s impact. It’s Time to Rethink Volunteer Strategy As you plan your next event, don’t put volunteer coordination at the bottom of your checklist. Build itinto your strategy from the beginning. Invest time in volunteer recruitment, engagement, andappreciation the same way you would with sponsors or speakers. Because at the end of the day, the success of your event won’t just be measured in dollars raised orprograms delivered—it’ll be measured in the connections made, the stories shared, and the heartstouched. And volunteers are key to making all of that happen. Ready to elevate your volunteer experience? Whether you’re looking to attract more passionate people or improve how you engage the ones youalready have, start with this mindset: Volunteers aren’t just support—they’re your secret ingredient. ​Want to know more about event coaching? Book a call with me today and I will explain how we can work together to train your staff to plan winning events.​

by A.J. Steinberg, CFRE of Queen Bee Fundraising Every April, we recognize National Volunteer Month a time to reflect on and honor the incredible individuals who give their time, talents, and hearts to strengthen our communities. Volunteers are often the quiet force behind the scenes. They don’t look for recognition, applause, orfanfare. They show up because they care about people, about causes, about making the world just alittle bit better than it was yesterday. Whether it’s packing food for families, mentoring youth, servingat events, supporting nonprofit operations, or helping a neighbor in need, volunteers make ourcommunities more compassionate, connected, and resilient. The Power of Volunteers Nonprofits, schools, community events, hospitals, and countless other organizations rely on volunteersto fulfill their missions. Volunteers don’t just fill roles they fill gaps. They bring energy, dedication,and a deep sense of purpose to every task, no matter how big or small. What makes volunteers so powerful is not just the work they do it’s the spirit with which they doit. That spirit transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary impact. It creates spaces where peoplefeel seen, valued, and supported. It strengthens the social fabric that binds us all together. More Than a “Thank You” National Volunteer Month is about more than just saying thank you (although gratitude is essential!).It’s about telling the stories of the people who give so freely of themselves. It’s about celebrating theircontributions publicly and recognizing how vital they are to our collective success. It’s also a time to reflect on how we support and engage our volunteers: Are we giving them meaningful roles?Are we showing them the impact of their work?Are we offering them a sense of belonging within our organizations? Volunteers deserve more than a pat on the back. They deserve to feel like an integral part of the teamthey truly are. How You Can Celebrate This Month If you’re an organization that benefits from volunteer support, here are a few ways to celebrate yourvolunteers this April: Share their stories on social media or in your newsletterHost a volunteer appreciation event (virtual or in-person)Send personalized thank-you notesOffer development opportunities like a free training, workshop, or leadership roleCreate space for feedback, so volunteers feel heard and empowered If you’re an individual looking to get involved, National Volunteer Month is the perfect time to start.Look for causes that align with your passions, even if you can only offer a few hours. Every act ofservice matters. A Heartfelt Thank You To every volunteer reading this, thank you. Thank you for showing up. Thank you for caring. Thankyou for making your corner of the world a better place. To every organization that nurtures a culture of volunteerism keep going. The impact may notalways be visible, but it is always profound. Let’s carry the spirit of National Volunteer Month all year long because when people give ofthemselves, our communities don’t just survive they thrive. Interested in volunteering? Looking for ideas to better support your volunteer team? Reach out—we’d love to connect!

by A.J. Steinberg, CFRE of Queen Bee Fundraising When it comes to sponsorships, many nonprofit professionals find themselves facing an all-too-common challenge: their board members don’t want to help. Despite their passion for the mission and willingness to support fundraising efforts in other ways, board members often shy away from sponsorships. Why? It’s not that they don’t care. It’s that they’re afraid. Let’s break down what’s behind this fear—and, more importantly, how to overcome it. 1. They Think Sponsorship Is Just Another Form of Begging One of the biggest misconceptions about sponsorship is that it’s just another donation ask. Board members who are uncomfortable asking for donations assume that approaching a business for sponsorship is the same thing. The Fix: Educate your board on the difference between sponsorships and donations. Unlike charitable giving, sponsorships are a business transaction—a marketing opportunity for companies to align with a cause their audience cares about. Sponsorship is an exchange of value, and your organization has assets that companies want: visibility, credibility, and access to a target audience. 2. They Don’t Know Who to Approach Board members often say, “I don’t know anyone who would be interested in sponsoring.” This is rarely true. Board members are well-connected in their industries and communities, but they may not see their contacts as sponsorship prospects. The Fix: Make it easy for them. Instead of asking, “Do you know any potential sponsors?” ask targeted questions: A little prompting goes a long way in helping board members make the right connections. 3. They Fear Rejection Nobody likes hearing “no,” and many board members worry that asking for sponsorships will put them in an uncomfortable position—especially if they’re reaching out to professional contacts or friends. The Fix: Reframe rejection as part of the process. Sponsorship is sales, and in sales, every “no” is a step closer to a “yes.” Encourage your board members to think of sponsorship outreach as relationship-building, not a one-time request. If a company says no this year, they might say yes next year if you nurture the relationship properly.als simple and accessible—something they can glance at quickly before reaching out to a potential sponsor. 4. They Don’t Feel Confident in the Sponsorship Offer If board members don’t fully understand the sponsorship opportunities or don’t see the value, they won’t feel comfortable pitching it to others. The Fix: Give them the tools they need. Create a simple, clear sponsorship deck that outlines: Better yet, offer a quick board training session on sponsorships to boost their confidence. 5. They Think Sponsorships Are Staff’s Job, Not Theirs Some board members assume that sponsorship outreach falls solely under the responsibility of staff. The Fix: Make sponsorships a shared goal. Set clear expectations that board members play a role in opening doors to potential sponsors. They don’t have to handle the full pitch—just make introductions so staff can take it from there. Recognizing their role as connectors, rather than salespeople, makes sponsorship outreach feel more manageable.​ Empowering Your Board to Take Action The key to overcoming board resistance to sponsorships is education, support, and reframing the ask. With the right approach, your board can move from fear to confidence—and, ultimately, become champions for your sponsorship efforts. What challenges have you faced in getting board members involved in sponsorships? Let’s discuss in the comments! Want to know more about event coaching? Book a call with me today and I will explain how we can work together to train your staff to plan winning events.

by A.J. Steinberg, CFRE of Queen Bee Fundraising Most nonprofit boards understand the importance of fundraising, yet when it comes to sponsorships, many board members hesitate to step up. They may feel they lack the right connections, worry about making an “ask,” or simply see sponsorship as something best left to staff. The reality? Board members are uniquely positioned to help identify and secure sponsors. They have networks, credibility, and influence—powerful assets in sponsorship development. The key is equipping them with the right mindset, tools, and strategies to turn their passive support into active engagement. 1. Reframe the Role: From “Asking” to “Opening Doors” One of the biggest barriers to board involvement in sponsorship is fear of solicitation. Many board members associate sponsorship with “asking for money” rather than building partnerships. Solution: Reframe sponsorship as an opportunity for businesses to align with a cause, gain exposure, and support the community. Encourage board members to focus on making introductions rather than making the ask. A simple, “I’d love for you to meet our team and hear about this opportunity” is often all that’s needed to get the ball rolling. 2. Activate Their Networks with a Simple Exercise Board members may not realize how many potential sponsors are within their personal and professional circles. A structured exercise can help them see the connections they already have. Exercise: At your next board meeting, ask members to jot down: Chances are, you’ll uncover multiple warm leads without much effort. 3. Provide Easy-to-Use Sponsorship Tools Many board members hesitate to reach out because they don’t feel prepared to talk about sponsorship opportunities. Give them the confidence they need with: Keep these materials simple and accessible—something they can glance at quickly before reaching out to a potential sponsor. 4. Celebrate Small Wins and Build Momentum Many board members hesitate to reach out because they don’t feel prepared to talk about sponsorship Recognizing and celebrating board members’ sponsorship efforts—big or small—helps build confidence and engagement. Did someone make an introduction? Secure a meeting? Even if it doesn’t lead to immediate sponsorship, acknowledge their effort. At each board meeting, share a quick sponsorship update and shout out members who have taken action. Seeing progress motivates others to get involved. 5. Set Clear Expectations (and Lead by Example!) Engaging the board in sponsorship isn’t a one-time request—it should be built into the board’s responsibilities. When board members see sponsorship engagement as part of their role—not just an optional task—they’re more likely to contribute.​ The Bottom Line Board members don’t have to be sponsorship experts, but they do need to be engaged. By shifting their mindset from fundraising to relationship-building, equipping them with the right tools, and creating a culture of action, you can turn your board into a powerful sponsorship development team. Are your board members actively involved in sponsorship prospecting? If not, what challenges are you facing? Let’s discuss in the comments! Want to know more about event coaching? Book a call with me today and I will explain how we can work together to train your staff to plan winning events.

by A.J. Steinberg, CFRE of Queen Bee Fundraising Successful nonprofit sponsorship strategies can be game-changers—when done right. However, many organizations struggle to secure the right partners, rely on outdated tiered packages, or treat sponsorships like philanthropy rather than a business deal. The key to long-term success is using a strategic approach that benefits both parties The truth is, sponsorships thrive when both parties see real value. So, what makes a sponsorship truly successful? It comes down to five key elements: 1. Audience Alignment: Are You Speaking to the Right People? Sponsors don’t support nonprofits out of generosity alone. They do it because your audience overlaps with theirs. If your event, program, or initiative reaches their ideal customer base, you have something valuable to offer. Ask yourself: Do you understand your audience demographics, behaviors, and interests? Can you show potential sponsors how your audience aligns with their business goals? 2. Meaningful Engagement: Going Beyond Logos A sponsorship isn’t just a transaction; it’s a partnership. Slapping a sponsor’s logo on a banner isn’t enough. The best sponsorships create opportunities for real engagement—whether that’s through interactive activations, storytelling, or direct involvement in your mission. Ask yourself: How can a sponsor engage with your audience in a way that feels natural, impactful, and mutually beneficial? 3. Value-Driven Assets: What Are You Actually Offering? Sponsorships fail when nonprofits don’t know what they’re selling. If you’re only offering visibility, you’re leaving money on the table. The best sponsorships package a mix of assets—brand exposure, thought leadership, employee engagement, content marketing opportunities, and more. Ask yourself: Have you assessed all your organization’s assets? Are you offering benefits that truly matter to sponsors? 4. ROI Matters: Proving the Impact Sponsors expect a return on their investment, whether it’s brand awareness, customer engagement, or social impact. If you’re not measuring success and reporting back, they won’t renew. Ask yourself: Do you have a plan to track and communicate sponsorship impact? Can you provide data that proves the partnership was worth it? 5. Relationship Building: It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint The biggest mistake nonprofits make? Treating sponsorships as one-time deals. Sponsors are more likely to invest again if you nurture the relationship year-round, rather than only reaching out when you need funding. Ask yourself: Are you maintaining sponsor relationships outside of renewal season? How are you keeping them engaged in your mission? Sponsorship success isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. If your nonprofit can align audiences, create meaningful engagement, deliver valuable assets, prove ROI, and build lasting relationships, you’ll turn sponsorships into long-term partnerships that fuel your mission. What’s been your biggest challenge in securing sponsorships? ​Want to know more about event coaching? Book a call with me today and I will explain how we can work together to train your staff to plan winning events.​