10 ways to get more volunteers for your PTA
1. Give a warm welcome
September comes, and the school is flooded with new parents and carers looking to join the community. Whether it’s setting up a PTA stand with coffee and cakes at a start of term fair, or inviting newcomers to an informal PTA meeting, this is one of your biggest opportunities to bring new parents into the fold. Run these welcome events before the formal AGM and encourage interested parents to join the meeting.
2. Don’t be shy
It might feel uncomfortable to big yourself up, but candidly and confidently showing the aims and benefits of your PTA is a great way to attract newcomers. Explain to parents and carers that volunteering doesn’t just benefit the school and its pupils, but also the volunteers themselves! It’s a great way to learn new skills, develop lasting friendships, and enrich lives.
3. Get face-to-face with it
It’s hard to say no when someone on the street asks you to sign their petition, right? Why not do the same for your PTA: establish a PTA presence at the school gate come drop-off and pick-up times, or open discussions about the association at fairs and events. Make it so that you’re always just a quick chat away from inviting somebody to join the team.
4. All publicity is good publicity
Promoting your PTA has so many benefits. It builds legitimacy and trust, keeps the community in the know, and increases your visibility. The more you spotlight your achievements, the easier it will be to find great volunteers. Social media, email and newsletters are great ways to reach a wide audience, but don’t forget more traditional methods – we’re talking posters on noticeboards and leaflets in bookbags.
The PTA Expert Hub has downloadable templates, posters and more to help you promote your PTA.
Find out more5. Don’t forget the dads
Dads are often an afterthought when it comes to supporting the PTA, and the majority of work can fall to the mums of the school. Whether it’s organising an icebreaker in the pub, hosting a football-themed fundraiser, or simply reminding new parents that partners are welcome to join them at PTA meetings, make sure that the men in your community are invited to volunteer their skills and know-how just as much as the mums.
6. Or the Queen Bee
Every school has one: the mum who knows everyone, and everyone knows her. She’s the perfect spokesperson for the PTA! Be honest – tell her that due to her popularity you feel she’d be the perfect person to spread awareness about your projects and events. An endorsement from her is sure to interest new volunteers!
7. Talent scouting
You never know what hidden talents someone might have up their sleeve, and scouting for skills can really help. Don’t just say you need any old volunteer – tailor the role to the person. Need support for the Treasurer? Ask for volunteers who have a head for figures. Renovating the school playground? DIY dads welcome. Polishing up your social media accounts? Artists and graphic designers wanted!
8. Be inclusive
Whilst some supporters will be more comfortable behind the scenes, organising calendar dates or preparing catering, others like to be in the spotlight, helping at quiz nights, fairs and fetes, so it’s important to identify peoples’ preferences. We all have our own work schedules and life commitments, so ensure that supporters know that even just 30 minutes of volunteering is a massive help. The more understanding you are, the more likely it is that volunteers will want to help you – and return for more.
9. Choose your time
Be mindful of the timing of your events according to your school’s circumstances such as how near or far the parents live. Those with a large catchment area may choose to hold their events straight after school – that way, many parents and teachers are already at school for pick up and may be more willing to help.
10. Get the kids involved
Ok so it’s a bit sneaky but you could ask for children volunteers – but they must be accompanied by an adult. A parent and child team could man a stall at the Christmas fete. Great life skill enhancement for the child and they get to spend some quality time together too!
And if you still can’t get the volunteers…
…then cut your cloth accordingly. Organise your events according to your resources. If you only have three volunteers, then investigate ways of fundraising that require minimal effort. Be enthusiastic and demonstrate the impact you’re having. You may find you pick up more volunteers along the way!