Volunteers are often seen as a “free” resource, but anyone who manages a volunteer program knows that is far from the full story. Behind every successful volunteer initiative lies a range of hidden investments: staff time for recruitment and supervision, consultants, training materials, workspace, technology platforms, insurance, and more. These costs often go unrecognized, underfunded, or absorbed by already-stretched nonprofit teams.

In this eye-opening workshop, we will break down the true cost of volunteer engagement and show you how to quantify the financial and operational resources your program really requires. You will learn to apply a cost calculation formula that translates hidden inputs into clear numbers, giving you a powerful tool to advocate for adequate funding, justify budget lines, and communicate your program’s value to internal and external stakeholders.

Whether you are a volunteer manager, program coordinator, or development professional, you will leave with:

• A practical cost-calculation worksheet you can adapt for your own program
• Real-world examples to guide your estimates
• Strategies to build a stronger case for investment in volunteer infrastructure
• Renewed confidence to shift the narrative around volunteerism from “free help” to “strategic resource”

Let us stop hiding the cost and start showing the value.

MEET THE PRESENTER

Brooke Campbell is Director of Community Outreach and Disaster Recovery for United Way of Greater Houston. She has more than 18 years of experience helping organizations strengthen communities through volunteer engagement, program innovation, and disaster recovery partnerships. She is a Certified Volunteer Administrator (CVA).  Brooke was formerly Director of Volunteer Houston, and held various roles with Boy Scouts of America. Brooke is a graduate of Texas State University.