Volunteering is not just about giving time or performing tasks; it’s also about building connections, growing skills, and fostering a sense of community. Organisations that understand the importance of these elements can significantly improve volunteer engagement and retention. One powerful strategy to achieve this is through peer learning opportunities, which can help volunteers connect with each other, develop professionally, and remain committed to their causes.  

AVM is providing a free Members’ Forum: Developing Volunteer Peer Learning Opportunities on 23 March 2025 from 1pm to 2.30pm, where we will explore different approaches to peer learning and various strategies to introduce or develop peer learning opportunities.  We’ll be using Action Learning Sets where you can bring a challenge, barrier or issue related to developing peer learning opportunities for your volunteer teams to problem solve and plan, alongside other volunteering professionals.

What is Peer Learning?

Peer learning involves individuals learning from and with each other, typically in an informal, collaborative setting. In the context of volunteer work, it’s an opportunity for volunteers to share knowledge, skills, and experiences to foster mutual growth. Peer learning can take many forms, from group discussions and skill-sharing workshops to mentorship programs and collaborative problem-solving activities. It’s rooted in the idea that everyone has something to contribute, regardless of their experience level.

Why is Peer Learning Important for Volunteers?

1. Fosters Connection and Builds Community

Volunteers often work alongside people they may not have met in their everyday lives. By introducing peer learning opportunities, organisations can create spaces where volunteers get to know each other better and forge stronger bonds. Whether it’s a formal mentorship program or casual knowledge exchanges, volunteers have the chance to connect over shared interests, causes, and goals. This sense of community can be particularly valuable for newcomers, who might otherwise feel isolated or disconnected from the larger volunteer network.

2. Encourages Skill Development

Volunteering can be a valuable learning experience, but sometimes volunteers may not know how to develop or refine specific skills. Peer learning allows individuals to acquire new competencies by learning directly from others who have more experience or expertise. For example, a volunteer who is adept at social media can share tips with others, while someone with project management skills can provide guidance on managing tasks efficiently. Peer learning not only helps volunteers grow in their current roles but also helps them build transferable skills that can benefit them personally and professionally.

3. Promotes a Culture of Mutual Support

A peer learning culture creates an environment where volunteers feel supported, respected, and valued. Volunteers can share their successes, challenges, and ideas with others in a judgment-free space, encouraging open communication and collaboration. This approach helps reduce feelings of stress or burnout, as volunteers feel they are not alone in their experiences and can rely on others for advice, encouragement, or practical help.

4. Increases Volunteer Engagement

When volunteers feel that their time and efforts are being recognised and supported by the organisation, they are more likely to stay engaged. Peer learning opportunities give volunteers the chance to actively participate in the organisation beyond their assigned tasks. They become contributors to a broader mission – helping others grow while growing themselves. This sense of involvement strengthens their connection to the cause, making them more likely to stay involved in the long term.

How Peer Learning Contributes to Volunteer Retention

1. Provides Personal and Professional Growth

Volunteers often seek opportunities that allow them to expand their horizons. Peer learning offers them the chance to do so within a supportive environment. Volunteers are more likely to continue their involvement if they see themselves growing, not just in terms of the tasks they perform but also through personal development. The skills they gain through peer learning can help them in their future careers or personal endeavors, adding tangible value to their experience. Volunteers who feel they are developing in meaningful ways are more likely to return and engage with the organisation long-term.

2. Builds Loyalty Through Mutual Respect

Volunteers who engage in peer learning experiences develop a sense of ownership and responsibility toward one another. They feel valued as contributors, not just as recipients of instruction or assistance. This sense of mutual respect strengthens volunteer loyalty to the organisation. When volunteers see that their contributions to others’ learning are recognised, they are more likely to feel a deeper connection to the organisation and its mission.

3. Strengthens Organisational Culture

An organisation that prioritises peer learning fosters a culture of collaboration, growth, and inclusivity. Volunteers are more likely to remain committed to an organisation where they feel part of a positive and supportive environment. A culture that values peer learning encourages volunteers to feel more accountable not only to the organisation but also to their fellow volunteers. This collective spirit can create a more cohesive and resilient volunteer community.

4. Reduces Volunteer Turnover

High turnover is a common challenge for many volunteer-driven organisations. Volunteers often feel disengaged if they don’t feel connected or appreciated. Peer learning creates opportunities for sustained engagement by giving volunteers meaningful ways to interact with each other. Volunteers who have positive relationships with their peers are less likely to drop out. They are more likely to stay committed and become long-term supporters because they see the value of their involvement and the impact they have on others.

Developing peer learning opportunities for volunteers offers numerous benefits for both the individuals involved and the organisation as a whole. By fostering a sense of connection, promoting skill development, and encouraging a culture of mutual support, organisations can enhance volunteer engagement and retention. 

Peer learning creates an environment where volunteers feel valued, empowered, and committed to the cause. When volunteers are connected not only to the organisation but also to each other, they are more likely to stay involved, grow within their roles, and contribute to a thriving, resilient volunteer community.