Trends in Volunteering 2026 [E-book]
More volunteers than ever – and yet less effort. In 2026, the International Year of the Volunteer, this insight is more relevant than ever. What does this mean for your strategy?
In the 12th edition of this e-book in collaboration with Erasmus University, 300.000 volunteers share the trends for volunteering in 2026. Includes tips and tools on how to incorporate this into your volunteer strategy, from recruitment to retention. Seize the opportunities of the Year of the Volunteer 2026!
E-book contents
Trends & insights
+29% new volunteers, but total commitment is declining. What is the reason for this, and what can you do about it? Big data from 80+ platforms and the largest volunteer survey in the EU.
Tips & strategies
Immediately applicable. Each trend concludes with concrete tips and strategy. Includes a Tip Guide for recruitment and retention.
Inspiring examples
Scientifically substantiated, including a new article by Prof. Dr. Lucas Meijs, Rotterdam School of Management.
Why is this e-book indispensable?
The world of volunteering is changing rapidly. Societal challenges are growing fast, meaning the 'competition' for volunteering is now truly palpable. The expectations and wishes of volunteers are also changing rapidly due to factors such as digitalization and AI.
In the 12th edition of this free e-book in collaboration with Erasmus University / Prof. Dr. Lucas Meijs, 300.000 volunteers share the 5 biggest trends for volunteering in 2026. Includes scientific insights and immediately applicable strategies and tips for recruitment and retention. Seize the opportunities in this Year of the Volunteer 2026!
This ebook helps you to:
✔️ To achieve more volunteer involvement: from recruitment strategy to best practices with practical tips
✔️ Save time: all information bundled, ready to get started
✔️ To strengthen your strategic choices: scientifically based data insights for a sustainable strategy
Instant download
Fill out the form below and you'll receive the e-book directly in your inbox.
What you will learn in this download
Download the e-book and discover:
✔️ Why commitment is declining – while registrations increase, and what that requires of your approach
✔️ What 300.000 volunteers choose – and the 3 factors that determine whether they choose *your* organization
✔️ Recruiting young people in 2026 – 60% of new volunteers are under 40; here is how to reach them
✔️ 42% want to know what their investment yields – measuring impact as both a recruitment and funding strategy
✔️ Micro & nano volunteering trend – 32% already opt for one-off jobs; organize it smartly
✔️ AI as a work tool – from job descriptions to matching algorithms, practically applicable
✔️ CSR and corporate volunteers – a pool that does not yet appeal to most organizations
✔️ Scientific interview – Prof. Dr. Lucas Meijs (Erasmus) on sustainable volunteer strategies
