What do you do if you're a project manager in a volunteer organization facing challenges?

2 Recruit and motivate your team

Another key aspect of project management is to recruit and motivate your team members, who are likely to be volunteers as well. You should look for people who share your passion and values, have relevant skills and experience, and are committed and reliable. You should also provide them with adequate training, guidance, and support, and recognize their contributions and achievements. You can use various tools and platforms, such as Slack, Trello, or Google Docs, to facilitate communication and collaboration among your team.

3 Manage your budget and resources

Managing your budget and resources can be challenging, especially if you are working with limited or uncertain funding. You should plan your budget carefully and realistically, taking into account all the possible costs and risks involved in your project. You should also track your expenses and income regularly, and report them to your stakeholders transparently. You can also look for ways to reduce your costs or generate additional income, such as seeking in-kind donations, sponsorships, or grants, or organizing fundraising activities.

4 Adapt to changes and challenges

As a project manager in a volunteer organization, you should be prepared to adapt to changes and challenges that might arise during your project. For example, you might face delays, cancellations, conflicts, or emergencies that could affect your timeline, scope, or quality. You should be flexible and resilient, and able to adjust your plans and strategies accordingly. You should also communicate any changes or issues to your stakeholders and team members promptly and honestly, and seek their input and support.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?