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Beyond the Donation Ep. 29 with Sam Fankuchen of Golden Volunteer on volunteerism

Ep. 29 | The impact and evolution of volunteerism, an interview with Sam Fankuchen of Golden Volunteer

In this episode of 'Beyond the Donation', host Matt Bitzegaio interviews Sam Fankuchen from Golden Volunteer. Their discussion brings light on the significance of volunteer contributions in nonprofit organizations and delves into the complexities of modern volunteer management. Sam underlines how genuine volunteer involvement amplifies the potential of a nonprofit, and can eventually convert volunteers into staff members or significant donors. He also highlights how Golden Volunteer's software helps manage qualifications, background checks, and other parameters for volunteers. Moreover, he discusses the future of volunteerism and how technology, such as AI, can lead to smoother, more effective experiences.

00:05 Introduction to Beyond the Donation Podcast

00:25 Meet the Guest: Sam Fankuchen from Golden Volunteer

00:44 Understanding Golden Volunteer's Mission and Impact

02:06 Sam's Journey into Social Entrepreneurship

02:56 The Crucial Role of Volunteers in Nonprofits

04:40 The Connection Between Volunteering and Donations

09:21 The Challenges of Finding New Volunteers

11:32 Ensuring Volunteer Qualifications and Safety

13:35 Maintaining Engagement with Volunteers

17:55 The Future of Volunteerism: AI and Technology Trends

23:43 Advice for Nonprofit Leaders

24:56 Learn More About Golden Volunteer

26:20 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes

To Connect with Sam at Golden Volunteer:

Website | Instagram | X

To Connect with Beyond the Donation Podcast:

BTD Podcast | DonorDock LinkedIn | Matt LinkedIn

What features should I look for in volunteer management software?

Look for volunteer scheduling and shift management, mobile sign-up forms, hour tracking, group and skill-based segmentation, automated reminders and confirmations, integration with your donor CRM, basic reporting on hours and impact, and a self-service volunteer portal. Growing teams should also evaluate background-check workflows, multi-event support, and a clear data export path. Avoid platforms that silo volunteer data away from donor records, since many volunteers are also donors and the relationship history matters.

Last updated

April 28, 2026

What is a volunteer grant?

A volunteer grant (sometimes called "dollars for doers") is a corporate program where companies donate to a nonprofit based on the hours an employee volunteers — typically $10–$25 per hour, or a lump sum after a threshold. Volunteers are already engaged with your mission; volunteer grants turn their hours into additional funding without adding work for the volunteer. Most nonprofits leave this revenue on the table because volunteers don't know the program exists.

Last updated

April 25, 2026

How does the volunteer grant process work?

The volunteer grant process is straightforward: a supporter volunteers with your nonprofit, checks their employer's eligibility (usually via a corporate CSR platform or volunteer grant database), submits an application after meeting the company's volunteer-hour threshold, and the company sends a check directly to your nonprofit. Most applications take under five minutes for the volunteer. Companies typically donate a set dollar amount per volunteer hour, turning sweat equity into cash revenue for your mission.

Last updated

April 25, 2026

Why do most volunteer grants go unclaimed?

Most volunteer grants go unclaimed because volunteers and nonprofits don't realize the programs exist. Industry research suggests $4–7 billion in matching gifts and volunteer grants is left on the table annually. The fix is awareness: add a "Did you volunteer with us?" prompt to your thank-you communications, list volunteer-grant employers on your website, and remind volunteers at sign-in events. Even a simple email reminder after a volunteer shift can recover several thousand dollars per year.

Last updated

April 25, 2026

Author

Elisha Ford

Content Writer

Last updated:

April 29, 2026

Written by

Elisha Ford

Content Writer

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