Volunteer Engagement for Iowa Nonprofits Starts With Structure

Volunteerism is often treated as a feel-good function of nonprofit work—something rooted in generosity, goodwill, and community spirit. All of that matters. But for Iowa nonprofits trying to grow impact and sustainability, volunteer engagement works best when it is designed with intention.

At a recent Heart of Des Moines gathering, member EJ Wallace shared insights from his work with Central Iowa organizations through The Wallace Edge. His experience reflects a reality many nonprofit leaders recognize: volunteer programs do not succeed on passion alone. They succeed when structure comes first.

Structure means clear roles, defined expectations, and systems that help volunteers understand how their time contributes to the mission. When volunteers know where they fit and why their work matters, relationships deepen. Retention improves. Engagement becomes more consistent. Over time, those relationships often lead to stronger financial support as well.

For Iowa nonprofits operating with limited staff capacity, this connection between volunteer engagement and revenue matters. Well-designed volunteer programs do more than fill gaps—they build long-term champions. People who start by giving their time frequently become donors because they understand the organization’s work firsthand and feel invested in its success.

This approach reframes volunteerism as a core organizational strategy, not an add-on. Instead of asking, “How do we get more volunteers?” the more effective question becomes, “ How does meaningful volunteer engagement save us time and can contribute to us financially?"  The answer often reveals opportunities to strengthen internal systems, clarify messaging, and align volunteer roles with broader organizational goals.

For Central Iowa nonprofits, this shift can be especially powerful. Strong volunteer programs create community connection, expand capacity, and support sustainability—all while honoring the time and energy people choose to give.

Heart of Des Moines exists to connect nonprofits with trusted local professionals who understand these dynamics and help organizations build capacity thoughtfully. To learn more about Heart of Des Moines members like EJ Wallace and other experts supporting Iowa nonprofits, visit our Members Page and explore the resources available in our community.