We’re thrilled to have you on board. Whether you’re organizing a neighborhood clean-up or a multi-day festival, our platform is designed to make managing volunteers easy and stress-free. To get you started, we’ve created a simple step-by-step guide to walk you through setting up your volunteer application and your first event.
🚀 6 Steps to Get Started with VolunteerLocal
1. (Optional) Add the additional admin users to the account
If you’re working with a team, go ahead and add any co-organizers or admin users who will help manage the event
2. Set up your application
The application is the form that volunteers will fill out to join your organization. Returning volunteers can sign in with just their name and email, saving time down the road.
🔑 Key areas of the application to create and edit:
Set up your Registration form for the application - Customize the fields you want volunteers to complete, such as age, interests, or t-shirt size. This step defines what information you want to collect.
Add Waiver/Disclaimer to the application (optional)- If you use a general waiver for all volunteers, add it here. If your waivers are event-specific, you can skip this step and add one later to each event
Enhance the Confirmation Message on the application - After submitting the application, volunteers will receive this message. Use it to share next steps, welcome them to your organization, or add helpful links.
3. Update/enhance the sign-up page header content & gateway content in the Edit detail of the application
The gateway content is what the volunteer will see when they are signing up for an event that is attached to the application.
Let them know what to expect, for example:
“New volunteer? You’ll be prompted to complete our application. Returning? Just enter your name and email to see available shifts.”
4. Create the event or ongoing program
Add the event name, select the volunteer application you just built, and start customizing your event settings. You can return later to edit details at any time.
🔑 Key area of the event or ongoing program to create:
Add jobs - Jobs define what needs to be done — like Check-In, Water Station, or Cleanup. Add each role as a separate line. No need to include dates here — that’s handled with shifts next!
Add shifts - Now define when you need volunteers. Create shifts under each job to assign dates, times, and the number of volunteers needed.
Customize the Event Confirmation Message - This message is sent to volunteers after they sign up for a shift. Include anything they should know before event day — parking info, check-in instructions, or what to bring.
Add waiver/disclaimer to your event (optional)
5. Create the Email templates to set your reminders for volunteers
Personalize your confirmation and reminder emails. These can include event details, directions, or any last-minute updates — and they’re sent automatically!
6. Go Live & Promote Your Event!
Turn your application and event “Online” — then start sharing the link to recruit your volunteers!