Training workshops

Posted February 26th, 2007 by Mathieu

Equipping you to work with volunteers!

For more than 17 years, we have been offering training to volunteer resource managers and others working in the community sector. Workshops on a variety of topics are presented both here at the VBM, with participants coming from different groups and agencies, as well as "in house", to groups of employees and/or volunteers from the same organization. These training sessions create opportunities for participants to exchange ideas and best practices with the other participants of many organizations.

Your trainers, Valérie, Evelyn and Alison wish you a fun and festive holiday season
and hope that 2010 brings you sll health and happiness!

The Essentials of Managing Volunteers Resources

Dates to come for Autumn 2010

This series of four workshops (listed below) is intended to equip you with all the tools and resources you need to make the most of your working relationship of volunteers. Each workshop costs $70 (lunch included). Registering for the complete series costs $210 (four workshops for the price of three).

For further information, please contact Suzane Langlois at 514.842.3351.

The Essentials series is also offered at Volunteer West Island, 1, rue de l'Église, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue.
Please consult volunteerwestisland.org or contact Yolanda Rodriguez at 514.457.5445 ext.227 for information.

Volunteer Recruitment  

  • Why involve volunteers?
  • What motivates volunteers?
  • What are some different recruitment methods?
  • How to use your networks and contacts for recruitment?
  • How to write and target your recruitment message?

Volunteer Selection and Screening  

  • What is the difference between selection and screening?
  • What steps are involved in a selection process?
  • What skills and tools can facilitate selection?
  • What is the risk involved a volunteer position?
  • How can we screen for positions of trust?

Volunteer Integration and Supervision   

  • How can we make volunteers feel welcome and ensure their orientation is effective?
  • How can we create a "volunteer-friendly" environment?
  • What is "must", "should" and "could" training?
  • What functions are involved in supervising volunteers?
  • What is good volunteer recognition?

Addressing Behaviour Issues with Volunteers 

  • What are the sources and consequences of problematic behaviour?
  • What tools and practices can help to prevent problems?
  • What do you want to do and what should you do in problem situations?
  • What can you do? Problem-solving tools and processes.

In-house training

Offering training to volunteers, staff and board members is an excellent way to enhance skills, cohesion and motivation within your organization. We are able to offer you in-house training on the essentials of volunteer management, as well as many other subjects. Contact Evelyn Joncas at 514.842.3351.

Frequently asked questions

What will I have to show for my training?
Apart from an increase in your skills and knowledge, in your confidence and in your contacts, you will receive an attestation if you attend the series of ''Essentials''. You can also receive a certificate in Volunteer Resource Management if you complete the "Essentials" and at least four other full-day workshops. Attendance at two half-day sessions is considered equivalent to a full day's training.

What does the training cost?
All full-day training sessions are $70 per person, including lunch ($63 for organizations which are members of the VBM). Half-day sessions are $35 per person ($31 for members).

Where does the training take place?
All sessions will take place at the Volunteer Bureau of Montreal, 2015 Drummond Street, Suite 300, Montreal (Peel Metro). We are also able to offer you in-house training on the essentials of volunteer management, as well as many others subjects. Contact Alison Stevens at 514.842.3351.

How long are workshops?
Full day workshops begin at 9 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. Half-day sessions run from 9 to noon. Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start on time.

What do I do about lunch?
The VBM is pleased to provide a light lunch during full-day sessions. Coffee and other refreshments are served at all workshops. If you are vegetarian, please let us know at least a week in advance, so we can make the proper arrangements.

How many people will be in my group?
In order to provide an optimum learning environment, the VBM limits registration to 12 participants.

Is my organization a member of the VBM?
Memberships are for a maximum one-year period ending June 30. Your organization may join or renew its membership up until December 31. If you want to know if your organization is a VBM member, please contact Justine Rastello at 514.842.3351.

What if I can't come?
If you are unable to attend a session for which you are registered, please notify Justine Rastello immediately at 514.842.3351. Note that registration fees are not refundable unless we are informed five working days before the workshop.

What if the workshop is cancelled?
The VBM reserves the right to cancel any session for which we have not received a minimum of six registrations. In case of cancellation, registration fees will be refunded.

For further information, please contact Suzane Langlois at 514.842.3351.