Volunteers are the heart of every nonprofit. Managing them effectively, however, can be challenging — especially as organizations scale. From onboarding and scheduling to communication and recognition, volunteer management software helps nonprofits streamline operations while building deeper engagement with their supporters.
Why Volunteer Management Matters
Without efficient systems, volunteer programs can quickly become disorganized. Manual spreadsheets and email threads often lead to double bookings, missed shifts, and disengaged volunteers. A dedicated software solution centralizes all volunteer data, allowing teams to plan, track, and communicate effortlessly.
Strong volunteer management doesn’t just save time — it enhances the volunteer experience, improving retention and strengthening your organization’s impact.
Core Features of Volunteer Management Software
- Volunteer Database: Maintain detailed volunteer profiles, skills, and availability.
- Scheduling & Shift Management: Automate scheduling and allow volunteers to self-select shifts.
- Communication Tools: Send reminders, updates, and thank-you messages directly from the platform.
- Hour Tracking: Log volunteer hours and generate impact reports for donors or board meetings.
- Mobile Access: Enable volunteers to check schedules, update profiles, and clock hours via mobile devices.
- Analytics & Reporting: Measure engagement, participation, and volunteer ROI over time.
Top Volunteer Management Tools for Nonprofits in 2026
1. Galaxy Digital (Get Connected)
Galaxy Digital offers one of the most comprehensive volunteer management systems available. Its Get Connected platform supports scheduling, tracking, and community engagement through an intuitive interface.
- Best for: Mid-to-large nonprofits with ongoing volunteer programs
- Standout feature: Advanced reporting on volunteer impact and engagement metrics
2. VolunteerHub
VolunteerHub integrates event registration, scheduling, and communication into one cloud-based tool. Its customizable branding options make it a great fit for organizations that run frequent events.
- Best for: Event-driven nonprofits and fundraising teams
- Standout feature: Seamless integration with Blackbaud and Salesforce
3. Bloomerang Volunteer (formerly InitLive)
Bloomerang Volunteer provides mobile-first volunteer scheduling and real-time communication tools. Volunteers can register for shifts, receive notifications, and track their hours effortlessly.
- Best for: Nonprofits that rely heavily on event volunteers
- Standout feature: Mobile app for on-site coordination and check-in
4. SignUpGenius
SignUpGenius simplifies the process of managing one-time or recurring volunteer signups. It’s particularly useful for smaller nonprofits or community groups looking for an affordable solution.
- Best for: Small nonprofits and community outreach programs
- Standout feature: Easy online signup forms and automated reminders
5. VolunteerLocal
VolunteerLocal provides flexible scheduling, event tracking, and on-site management tools. It’s used by organizations of all sizes, from local food banks to national nonprofits.
- Best for: Nonprofits hosting large-scale events
- Standout feature: On-site check-in and mobile registration
Benefits of Adopting Volunteer Management Software
- Time Savings: Reduce administrative hours with automated scheduling and data entry.
- Improved Engagement: Keep volunteers informed and motivated through personalized communication.
- Better Retention: Recognize top contributors and provide clear impact feedback.
- Enhanced Reporting: Generate insights for grant proposals, annual reports, and board presentations.
- Stronger Collaboration: Coordinate easily across departments and events.
Integrating Volunteer Management with Other Nonprofit Systems
The most effective volunteer management solutions integrate seamlessly with donor CRMs, fundraising tools, and email marketing platforms. Integration ensures that your volunteer engagement efforts contribute directly to fundraising and community-building strategies.
- CRM Integration: Sync volunteer data with donor profiles to identify cross-engagement opportunities.
- Email & Marketing: Automate volunteer communications and appreciation campaigns.
- Event Management: Coordinate fundraising events with volunteer teams in one platform.
How to Increase Volunteer Retention Using Software
- Personalize Engagement: Match volunteers to roles that fit their skills and interests.
- Provide Feedback: Share impact metrics to show how their work