How do I thank volunteers? Ideas that work
Thank volunteers quickly, personally and regularly: be specific, recognise publicly where it fits, and share a gesture together.
The best way to thank volunteers is personally, promptly and regularly: a specific message or conversation soon after their help, public recognition that suits them, and a gesture or outing a few times a year. A sincere, specific thank-you works better than an expensive gift. Below are ideas and a simple rhythm.
Why thanking matters
NCVO lists 'thanking volunteers' in its volunteer guidance alongside recruiting, supporting and keeping volunteers. That is no coincidence: people who feel appreciated tend to stay. Several organisations writing about volunteer appreciation point out that recognition strengthens the bond with your organisation and helps volunteers see the difference they make.
1. Thank quickly and specifically
Say what the volunteer actually did and what it achieved: 'Thanks to your help at the till, the queue was gone in ten minutes.' Do it the same day or the next, in person or with a short message. Do not wait until the end of the year.
2. Make it personal
Not everyone wants the spotlight. Some prefer a handwritten card, others a public thank-you at an event. Ask at the start what suits them. A phone call or message from a board member can mean a lot too.
3. Recognise publicly where it fits
- A 'volunteer of the month' in your newsletter or on social media, with consent.
- A thank-you at the start of your event so guests see it.
- A photo album or short report with names and faces (only with consent).
4. A gesture or moment together
Organise a thank-you moment: a dinner, a walk, a barbecue or a behind-the-scenes visit. In Flanders there is an annual Week of the Volunteer, a campaign by the Flemish Support Centre for Volunteering to celebrate volunteers; you can use it as an occasion.
5. Share the outcome with them
Share the result: how much money, how many guests, what it achieved. Volunteers often most want to know whether their time changed something. A final total with 'you made this possible' is a thank-you in itself.
6. Reimburse what you must
Thanking is no substitute for correct rules. In Belgium there are rules on expense reimbursement and insurance for volunteers; the Flemish Support Centre has information and model documents. Check what applies to your organisation before you give a payment or gift.
In 2026 you can reimburse a volunteer a flat-rate maximum of €44.02 a day and €1,760.83 a year without receipts; for a limited group of volunteers a higher ceiling of €3,233.91 a year applies. These amounts are indexed every year.
A simple rhythm
- After every shift: a personal thank-you.
- Every month or quarter: a small public recognition.
- Every year: a thank-you moment for everyone.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to give a gift?
No. A personal, specific thank-you counts for more. Gifts and payments can be subject to rules, so check them.
How do I thank volunteers who prefer to stay anonymous?
Do it privately: a card or message. Ask beforehand what they are comfortable with.
When is a thank-you too late?
Better late than never, but the sooner the stronger the effect.
Read next
- How do I find volunteers for my non-profit?
- How to manage volunteers and members in one database
- The complete end-of-year fundraising guide
Sources
Checked on 2 October 2026.
- NCVO: 'Thanking volunteers' as part of the volunteer guidance, alongside recruiting and keeping
- Vlaams Steunpunt Vrijwilligerswerk: Week of the Volunteer and information on expenses and insurance, with the 2026 ceilings on its page on the flat-rate expense allowance
- GoFundMe Pro: volunteer appreciation ideas
- Funraise: volunteer appreciation ideas for non-profits