The Volunteer Retention Myth That’s Keeping You Stuck!

A few weeks ago, I heard someone say the ideal volunteer retention strategy was "from the cradle to the grave."

I baulked. Really? Is that what we’re aiming for - lifelong volunteers as the ultimate marker of success?

Let me be clear: deep, long-term engagement can be powerful when volunteers remain genuinely connected to the mission, feel valued, and their roles evolve with them. But let’s not kid ourselves - this strategy is outdated and unrealistic. People change. Life changes. And so do organisations. So why do we still cling to the idea that keeping volunteers forever is the goal?

This mindset holds us back. It stops us from welcoming the fresh energy, diverse perspectives, and community insight that new volunteers bring. Retention doesn’t mean forever - it means ensuring people have meaningful, flexible, and time-bound ways to contribute that work for them.

Let go of the idea that “holding on” equals success. That belief is limiting - and it's time to retire it.

So ask yourself:

• What does meaningful retention look like in your organisation?

• Are your volunteer strategies built on control or connection?

• What might be possible if we focused on value and impact, not tenure?

It’s time to reimagine retention. Let’s start today.