Contrary to what you might have heard, volunteers aren’t actually the lifeblood of nonprofits. No, they’re more like the muscular system—it’s through their dedication and hard work that organizations actually get up and move.
Because properly managing your volunteers is so important for your nonprofit’s ongoing success, you’re going to want to have the right tools at your disposal—tools that make that process easier for you while creating a better experience for your volunteers.
That’s where volunteer management software (VMS) comes in! In this comprehensive buyer’s guide, we’ll cover what you should be looking for in a VMS, the process to follow when shopping for one, and 16 of the top options on the market.
Here are all the solutions we’ll be covering in this post.
- Neon CRM
- Volunteer Local
- VolunteerHub
- Volgistics
- Bloomerang
- Civic Champs
- DonorPerfect
- Get Connected
- Giveffect
- Mobilize
- Rosterfy
- SignUpGenius
- Track it Forward
- Volunteer Impact
- VolunteerMatters
- VSys One
Okay, we’ve got a lot to cover. Let’s go!
Why Your Nonprofit Needs Volunteer Management Software
Volunteers are some of your nonprofit’s most dedicated supporters—why else would they be dedicating their time and energy to supporting your cause?!—and the number one priority for any volunteer manager is to treat that support like the precious resource it is.
If you’re relying on spreadsheets or manual processes to manage your volunteers, that can all too easily lead to inefficiencies and missed opportunities that will, ultimately, lead to volunteer attrition. You hate to see it!
But with the right volunteer management solution at your disposal, you can manage these tasks in a single platform, enabling you to recruit, onboard, schedule, communicate, and report on your volunteer program with ease.
Volunteer management software offers several advantages over manual processes:
- Operational Efficiency: By automating tasks like scheduling, data entry, and onboarding, you can focus on strategic initiatives rather than manual admin work.
- Communication: Integrated email and SMS tools facilitate better engagement, keeping your volunteers informed and involved.
- Volunteer Experience: This kind of software provides user-friendly portals where volunteers can easily sign up for shifts, manage their profiles, and log their hours.
- Data-driven Decision-making. Real-time analytics offer insights into your volunteers’ impact, engagement rates, and your overall program effectiveness.
In the next section, we’ll cover some of the core features of volunteer management software that will help you implement these improvements.
Core Features for Volunteer Management Software
The most important part of choosing a volunteer management software solution is finding the system that works best for your team and your organization.
But before you can do that, you’ll need to understand the core VMS features that you should be looking out for and assessing against your needs.
Here are some of the most important features that your solution should include!
Recruitment & Onboarding
Effective recruitment starts with the ability to easily post volunteer opportunities through your website, social media channels, and email campaigns.
The software should also facilitate tracking of volunteer applicants, while simplifying the onboarding process by making it easy to manage training materials, document uploads, and communications.
Scheduling & Communication
Flexible scheduling tools are crucial for accommodating your volunteers’ availability and preferences.
Software solutions on your list should offer automated email and SMS reminders which will help to reduce no-shows and ensure consistent participation. That will allow for direct communication with volunteers and make it easy to send updates, announcements, and personalized thank-you messages.
Data Management & Reporting
Maintaining detailed volunteer profiles is an important part of running an effective volunteer program.
The software you choose should allow you to track contact information, skills, interests, and engagement history.
Accurate hour tracking is also a must! That will enable you to monitor your volunteers’ contributions and recognize their achievements and milestones.
Reporting tools in the system should also help you by generating insights into volunteer activities, engagement levels, and program outcomes.
Integrations
The software you choose should seamlessly connect with your existing CRM to ensure consistent data about your supporters across both platforms.
Smooth data flow between the two will reduce manual entry and ensure that all team members have access to the latest information. People who volunteer usually support their favorite causes in other ways—like by making donations, purchasing memberships, and attending events—and you’ll want to be able to see all of that data in one place.
Of course, solutions like Neon CRM can help you skip the integration altogether by simply incorporating a whole suite of volunteer management tools into your broader donor management system!
User-Friendly Interface
A good volunteer management system will come with a clean, intuitive design that works well for both your staff and your volunteers.
Look for a tool with easy navigation that reduces training time and ensures that users can access the features they need without frustration.
Mobile accessibility is equally important, too. Choose a platform that works well on smartphones and other devices so volunteers can easily sign up, check schedules, and log hours wherever they are.
Year-End Giving Resources!
As you plan out your year-end giving campaign, Neon One’s Year-End Resource Center has all the templates, guides, checklists, and articles your need to craft messages that’ll send you into next year on a high note.
16 Top Volunteer Management Software Options (2025)
One of the hardest parts of buying a new software solution is simply knowing where to start. When it comes to volunteer management, there are so many different solutions on the market—it can be paralyzing!
That’s one of the reasons we put this guide together, and it’s definitely why we included this list of 16 of the top volunteer management solutions currently available.
We included information on key features and pricing, and we also analyzed user reviews from G2, Capterra, and Software Advice to give you an idea of what customers are saying about each solution.
We hope these profiles help you narrow down your list and get shopping!
1. Neon CRM
Why, that’s us! Neon CRM is a comprehensive nonprofit management platform that excels in integrating volunteer management with donor engagement.
Neon CRM offers powerful tools for recruiting, onboarding, scheduling, and tracking volunteer activities, all within a user-friendly interface. Our automation features streamline administrative tasks, making it easier to manage large groups of volunteers while maintaining strong communication and engagement.
Features and Benefits:
Here’s a list of all the awesome features that Neon CRM has to offer for managing volunteers—and so much more!
- Comprehensive Volunteer Profiles: Tracking for volunteer activities, hours, skills, and interests.
- Scheduling and Communication: Automated scheduling, reminders, and communication tools.
- Reporting & Analytics: Robust reporting tools for tracking volunteer impact and engagement.
- Customizable Forms: Easy-to-use forms for volunteer applications and feedback.
- Donor Management: Centralized profiles, automated acknowledgments, and donor segmentation.
- Fundraising & Campaigns: Capital campaigns, recurring donations, peer-to-peer fundraising, and event management.
- Email & SMS Marketing: Integrated tools for newsletters, appeals, automated campaigns, and A/B testing.
- Event Management: Event creation, ticketing, registration, check-ins, and attendee management.
- Membership Management: Tools include membership tiers, renewals, benefits, and engagement tracking.
- Grant Tracking: Centralized tracking of applications, deadlines, and documents.
- Payment Processing: Integrated support for donations, registrations, and memberships.
- Integrations & API: Sync with third-party tools and custom data integration.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a summary of the pros and cons of using Neon CRM based on customer reviews from G2, Capterra, and Software Advice.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Comprehensive Nonprofit Solution: Neon CRM is praised for being an all-in-one platform that effectively combines donor management, fundraising, volunteer coordination, and event management. This versatility makes it a popular choice for nonprofits looking to consolidate multiple tools into one solution. User-Friendly Interface: Many users find Neon CRM’s interface intuitive and easy to navigate, making it simple for staff to learn and for volunteers to use. The software’s dashboard provides a clear overview of key metrics, which helps users manage tasks more efficiently. Automation Features: The platform offers a range of automation tools that reduce manual tasks. From automated donation receipts to volunteer scheduling reminders, Neon CRM helps streamline processes, allowing nonprofits to focus on their mission. Customizable Reporting: The reporting and analytics capabilities in Neon CRM are frequently mentioned as a strength, providing detailed insights into donor trends, volunteer engagement, and event success. The customizable nature of these reports allows nonprofits to tailor insights to their specific needs. | Cost: While many users appreciate the wide range of features, some have noted that Neon CRM’s pricing can be higher, especially as its volunteer management features are not available in Essentials Plan. But the software’s unique revenue-based pricing does offer some relief to smaller organizations. Learning Curve for Advanced Features: Although the basic functionalities are user-friendly, some users report that mastering Neon CRM’s more advanced features can be challenging without additional training or support. This is especially true for smaller nonprofits that might not have dedicated IT staff. Limited Customization for Smaller Nonprofits: Some users have mentioned that the extensive customization options are geared more toward larger organizations. Smaller nonprofits might find it difficult to make full use of these features without significant effort or technical expertise. |
Plans & Pricing
Neon CRM uses a revenue-based pricing model, which scales costs based on an organization’s annual revenue. Here’s an overview of its pricing structure:
With a robust set of other features that cover everything from donor management to fundraising, memberships, events, email, SMS, donation forms, grants, and payments, Neon CRM provides nonprofits with a holistic view of supporter involvement. Seeing all of that information in one place will help you drive greater impact and supporter retention.
- Essentials Plan: Designed for small nonprofits, this plan starts at $99 per month. It includes core CRM features like donor management, reporting, online forms, and basic email marketing, but it does not include volunteer management tools.
- Impact Plan: This plan starts at $199 per month and offers additional features like volunteer and event management, advanced email marketing, and event management tools. It’s geared toward growing organizations seeking more sophisticated campaign capabilities.
- Empower Plan: Aimed at larger organizations, this plan starts at $399 per month. It includes everything in the previous plans plus grant management, membership management, and custom workflows for more advanced needs.
- Enterprise Plan: For well-established nonprofits with extensive needs, pricing is customized based on requirements. This plan offers additional support, integrations, and advanced customization options.
Each plan includes basic support, with options to upgrade to more comprehensive training and support packages for an additional cost.
One thing that is very important to note is that Neon CRM’s volunteer management features are only available in the Impact and Empower plans!
If you’d like to learn more about Neon CRM’s capabilities, join one of our regularly scheduled group demos! This 30-minute session will give a broad overview of what the system can do—with zero pressure to buy.
2. VolunteerLocal
VolunteerLocal is a straightforward, user-friendly volunteer management platform designed to simplify the tasks of scheduling, registering, and communicating with volunteers with a streamlined experience that caters to both ongoing programs and single events. The platform is built to support a variety of needs, from basic volunteer sign-up and scheduling to more advanced features like group volunteering and CRM integration.
Features
VolunteerLocal provides a comprehensive set of features aimed at making volunteer management as smooth as possible, including:
- A volunteer database
- Volunteer scheduling
- Communication tools
- Group volunteering
- Hours tracking
- Reporting
- CRM integrations
- Background screening
Pros & Cons
Here’s what customer reviews on G2, Capterra, and Software Advice reveal about VolunteerLocal:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Flexibility and Customization: VolunteerLocal is capable of handling complex volunteer management needs with customizable options, making it suitable for a variety of events and programs. Communication Tools: The platform includes email and SMS tools that keep volunteers informed and engaged, which helps maintain strong communication. Ease of Use: The intuitive interface is easy for both administrators and volunteers to navigate, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Value for Money: VolunteerLocal is often seen as a cost-effective solution, offering excellent value for the range of features and quality of support provided. | Reporting and Analytics: The reporting features, while functional, are less robust and flexible than some users would like, limiting the depth of analysis that can be performed. Navigation Challenges: Some users report difficulties in navigating the system, particularly when trying to find specific information like volunteer shift details, indicating room for improvement in the user experience. Limited Advanced Features: Certain advanced features, such as HTML coding for specific functions or more flexible volunteer management options, feel underdeveloped, which may limit its appeal to organizations with more complex requirements. Learning Curve: Despite its overall ease of use, there is still a learning curve for less tech-savvy users, particularly when it comes to understanding and utilizing all of the platform’s features. |
Plans & Pricing
VolunteerLocal offers three main pricing tiers designed to cater to organizations of various sizes and needs. Each plan includes onboarding and unlimited support via email, phone, and video to help organizations get started and maintain their volunteer management processes.
Discover Plan: $600/year. The Discover Plan is designed for smaller organizations and offers support for two admin users. This plan includes unlimited volunteers and events and a comprehensive volunteer database, scheduling, and communication tools. It also includes up to 10,000 SMS messages, automated messaging, event-level notifications, data export capabilities, mobile app access, and interactive reporting.
Grow Plan: $2,400/year. The Grow Plan is targeted at growing organizations, expanding the capabilities to support 10 admin users. In addition to all the features of the Discover Plan, it includes custom design options, file hosting, group volunteering, and applicant tracking. The plan also enhances hours tracking and data import tools, offering up to 50,000 SMS messages and additional security with job-level permissions and password-protected shifts.
Enterprise Plan: Contact for Pricing. The Enterprise Plan is built for large organizations with extensive volunteer management needs, supporting up to 50 admin users. It includes all features of the Grow Plan, along with specialized options like leader or captain user types, job and shift-level notifications, and credentials and badges for volunteers. This plan also provides up to 100,000 SMS messages and is ideal for organizations that require the highest level of customization and control.
3. VolunteerHub
VolunteerHub is a versatile volunteer management software designed to enhance the efficiency of managing volunteer programs. VolunteerHub helps organizations engage with their volunteers more effectively while simplifying administrative tasks, with a wide range of features to streamline volunteer recruitment, scheduling, communication, and data management.
Features
VolunteerHub provides a set of features designed to meet the diverse needs of volunteer management, including:
- Volunteer recruitment
- Volunteer scheduling
- Automated emails
- Automated text messages
- Reporting
- Volunteer fundraising
- A volunteer database
- Liability waivers
- A social media integration
- Volunteer hour tracking
- Volunteer recognition
Pros & Cons
Here’s a summary of users’ pros and cons of using VolunteerHub based on their reviews from G2, Capterra, and Software Advice.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Volunteer Engagement: VolunteerHub offers effective tools for keeping volunteers informed and involved. Comprehensive Feature Set: VolunteerHub includes a wide range of features such as volunteer scheduling, hour tracking, and event management, which makes it a versatile tool for different types of programs. Custom Reporting: The software provides superior custom reporting options, allowing organizations to better track volunteer activities and gain valuable insights into their programs. Ease of Use: The user-friendly interface simplifies volunteer management tasks, making it accessible for both administrators and volunteers. | Interface and Usability Issues: Some users find the software not as intuitive as they would like, with an outdated user interface that could be more user-friendly. Customization Limitations: The platform offers limited customization options for landing pages and main pages, which can be frustrating for organizations looking to tailor the user experience. Price: Some users perceive VolunteerHub as pricey, particularly when considering the additional costs for extra features, which may be a concern for smaller organizations. Analytics: While custom reports are appreciated, the overall reporting capabilities could be more robust and user-friendly. Integration Challenges: Integration with CRM systems is sometimes less seamless than expected, which can create challenges for organizations that rely on multiple platforms. |
Plans & Pricing
VolunteerHub offers three main pricing tiers, each tailored to different organizational needs and sizes. Each plan provides access to VolunteerHub’s implementation and training support.
Plus Plan: $143/month. The Plus Plan is designed for smaller organizations and allows the management of up to 1,000 volunteers. It includes essential features like volunteer scheduling, communication tools, and reporting. This plan is billed annually and includes a setup fee.
Pro Plan: $288/month. The Pro Plan is ideal for midsize organizations and supports up to 2,500 volunteers. In addition to all the features of the Plus Plan, it offers enhanced capabilities such as advanced reporting, social media integration, and volunteer fundraising tools. This plan is also billed annually and includes a setup fee.
Enterprise Plan: Contact for Pricing. The Enterprise Plan is designed for large organizations managing over 2,500 volunteers. It includes all the features of the Pro Plan, with additional customization options and advanced support services. Pricing for this plan is available upon request, with the plan tailored to the specific needs of the organization.
4. Volgistics
Volgistics is a cloud-based volunteer management software designed to assist nonprofit organizations in streamlining their volunteer programs. The platform is built to handle a wide range of volunteer management tasks, including recruitment, scheduling, communication, and record-keeping. Additionally, Volgistics includes optional modules that extend its functionality by enabling online volunteer self-scheduling and on-site check-ins.
Features
Volgistics includes several features aimed at supporting nonprofits in managing their volunteers:
- Volunteer recruiting
- Volunteer scheduling
- Group tracking
- Volunteer database
- Volunteer application form
- Messaging tools
- Online volunteer portal module
- Onsite check-in system module
- Multi-site management
- Document storage
- Reporting tools
Pros & Cons
Here’s a roundup of the key pros and cons of using Volgistics:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Ease of Use: Volgistics is recognized for its user-friendly interface, which simplifies navigation and allows volunteers to easily manage tasks like scheduling and logging hours. This accessibility is frequently mentioned by users who are not particularly tech-savvy. Customizability and Flexibility: Volgistics offers a range of customization options, enabling organizations to tailor aspects of the system, such as volunteer forms and reports. This flexibility is noted as a beneficial feature for organizations with specific needs. Comprehensive Volunteer Management: The platform provides tools for managing all aspects of volunteer programs, including scheduling, communication, and record-keeping. Users appreciate the ability to handle multiple volunteer-related tasks within one platform. Cost Considerations: Volgistics is often described as offering value for money, particularly for organizations seeking a low-cost solution. The absence of start-up costs and the availability of low monthly fees are commonly highlighted. | Initial Learning Curve: Some users find the initial setup and navigation of Volgistics’ extensive features to be challenging. The broad range of options can require time and effort to learn. Reporting Limitations: A number of users express concerns about the reporting capabilities, noting that generating specific reports can be cumbersome due to the system’s complexity. There is a desire for more user-friendly, built-in report options. User Interface: Some users feel that the design of Volgistics’ interface could benefit from modernization. While functional, the interface is occasionally described as outdated, which might impact user experience. Lack of Integrations: Volgistics does not readily integrate with other software platforms, such as donor management systems, which can be a limitation for organizations looking for a more unified operational approach. Complexity in Multi-Department Use: While effective for single-department applications, some users report challenges when deploying Volgistics across multiple departments with differing needs, potentially requiring additional subscriptions or complex configurations. |
Plans & Pricing
Volgistics’ pricing is determined by the maximum number of volunteer records in your account.
The platform offers a customizable pricing calculator to determine the monthly cost based on your organization’s needs.
Each plan includes essential volunteer management tools, with additional costs for premium features. Additionally, optional modules like VicDocs, VicNet, and VicTouch can be added for enhanced functionality.
For organizations with multi-site operations, Volgistics allows you to scale your account based on your specific requirements.
5. Bloomerang Volunteer Management
Bloomerang Volunteer Management is a software solution designed to help nonprofits streamline their volunteer programs by integrating volunteer recruitment, scheduling, communication, and data management into one platform. Bloomerang Volunteer Management is tailored to enhance volunteer engagement and simplify administrative tasks, making it easier for organizations to manage their volunteers effectively. The platform also integrates with Bloomerang’s donor management tools.
Features
Bloomerang Volunteer Management offers a robust set of features designed to meet the needs of modern nonprofits:
- A volunteer database
- Volunteer scheduling
- Communications tools
- Recruitment workflows
- Mobile app
- Reporting and analytics
Pros & Cons
Here’s a summary of customer reviews from G2, Capterra, and Software Advice.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Integration with Donor Management: Users appreciate the two-way sync between volunteer and donor data, which helps streamline operations and provides a comprehensive view of supporter engagement. User-Friendly Interface: The software is noted for its intuitive design, making it easy for both volunteers and administrators to navigate and use efficiently. Robust Scheduling and Communication Tools: The scheduling and communication features are highly regarded, particularly the ability to automate messages and recognize volunteer contributions, which helps keep volunteers engaged and informed. | Customization Limitations: Some users find that the software’s customization options, particularly in reporting and workflow automation, could be more flexible to better suit their specific organizational needs. Initial Setup Complexity: The setup process can be complex, especially for organizations that require extensive customization or are integrating Bloomerang with other systems. This complexity may result in a steeper learning curve for new users. Cost Considerations: While Bloomerang offers a wide range of features, some users feel that the pricing could be more competitive, especially for smaller organizations with limited budgets. |
Plans & Pricing
Bloomerang Volunteer Management’s pricing is based on the number of volunteer records your organization needs to manage.
The platform offers a flexible plan that includes unlimited managers and access to all core features, including volunteer recruitment, scheduling, and communication tools.
Pricing starts at $119 per month, with additional costs depending on the number of volunteers and any premium features or support services required.tc. Those fees vary by platform. Text-to-give is available on both tiers for an additional cost. And many Pro features are available a la carte on the Standard tier for an added cost.
6. Civic Champs
Civic Champs is a volunteer management software designed to streamline the process of managing, scheduling, and engaging volunteers. With an emphasis on user-friendly features and mobile accessibility, Civic Champs aims to simplify volunteer management for nonprofits of all sizes. The platform offers tools for tracking volunteer hours, managing events, and communicating with volunteers.
Features
Civic Champs provides a range of features tailored to meet the needs of volunteer-driven organizations:
- Volunteer profiles
- Data management
- Event management
- Communication tools
- Reporting and analytics
- Mobile accessibility
Pros & Cons
Here’s a summary of the pros and cons of using Civic Champs based on reviews from G2, Capterra, and Software Advice.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Ease of Use: Civic Champs is frequently praised for its user-friendly interface, which simplifies the management of volunteers and events. Many users highlight the platform’s intuitive design, which makes it accessible even for those who are not tech-savvy. Comprehensive Event and Volunteer Management: Civic Champs offers a wide range of features that allow organizations to manage volunteer profiles, schedule events, and track volunteer hours efficiently. Users particularly like the ability to generate reports easily and track volunteer contributions. Mobile Accessibility: The mobile app is well-regarded for its functionality, allowing volunteers to manage their activities on the go and making event check-ins more efficient. | App Setup Challenges: Some users have reported difficulties with volunteers setting up the app, particularly among those who are less familiar with technology or lack access to smartphones. Limited Customization Options: While the platform is generally easy to use, some users feel that there could be more customization options, particularly in areas like reporting and volunteer profile management. Occasional Glitches: A few users have noted minor glitches with the app, requiring it to be reinstalled or updated to work properly. These issues, while not widespread, can cause occasional disruptions. |
Plans & Pricing
Civic Champs operates on a pricing model where organizations only pay for active volunteers, with unlimited administrators included in each plan.
Pricing starts at $49 per month for up to 49 active volunteers, with the cost scaling from there based on the number of volunteers managed annually.
The platform includes all core features in every plan, such as volunteer scheduling, event management, and reporting tools.
Additional costs may apply for specific integrations or premium support services.
7. DonorPerfect
DonorPerfect is a comprehensive donor management and fundraising software that also offers features for volunteer management. It is designed to centralize volunteer and donor data, allowing nonprofits to track volunteer activities alongside donor contributions. This provides a holistic view of supporter engagement, which can be particularly useful for organizations that rely on both volunteers and donors to achieve their mission.
Features
DonorPerfect includes several features that support effective volunteer management:
- Integrated volunteer and donor data management
- Volunteer scheduling
- Volunteer tracking
- Custom reporting
- Online forms
- Task management
Pros & Cons
Here’s what people on G2, Capterra, and Software Advice have to say about using DonorPerfect.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Integration of Volunteer and Donor Data: DonorPerfect’s ability to track both volunteers and donors in the same system is a significant advantage for organizations looking to streamline operations and get a complete view of supporter engagement. User-Friendly Interface: Many users appreciate the intuitive design of DonorPerfect, which makes it easy to navigate and manage both volunteer and donor information. The system’s dashboards and reporting features are particularly praised for their clarity and ease of use. Comprehensive Reporting Capabilities: The software offers robust reporting tools that allow nonprofits to generate custom reports on volunteer activities, which can be tailored to meet specific organizational needs. | Complexity in Reporting: While DonorPerfect’s reporting tools are comprehensive, some users find them difficult to navigate, particularly when trying to create more customized reports. This can require additional training or support. Cost and Feature Confusion: Some users have expressed concerns about the pricing structure and the complexity of understanding what features are included in different bundles. This can make it challenging for organizations to determine the most cost-effective plan. Limited Advanced Features for Volunteer Management: Although DonorPerfect offers solid volunteer management tools, some users feel that the platform could benefit from more advanced features specifically tailored to volunteer management, such as more flexible scheduling options or deeper integrations with other volunteer-specific tools. |
Plans & Pricing
DonorPerfect offers several pricing plans based on the number of donor records an organization needs to manage, which includes volunteer records.
The pricing scales with the size and needs of the nonprofit, and all plans include access to core features like volunteer and donor data management, reporting, and online forms. Additional features, such as advanced reporting and integrations, may come at an extra cost.
Specific pricing details are typically provided upon request, tailored to the organization’s specific requirements.
8. Get Connected by Galaxy Digital
Get Connected by Galaxy Digital is a volunteer management platform designed to help organizations efficiently manage and engage their volunteers. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive set of tools that cater to a variety of organizations, including nonprofits, educational institutions, and government programs.
Features
Get Connected offers a wide range of features to support effective volunteer management:
- Volunteer recruitment
- Volunteer scheduling
- Shift management
- Volunteer check-in
- Volunteer tracking
- Group and team management
- Custom branding and communication tools
Pros & Cons
Below is a summary of the key pros and cons cited on G2, Capterra, and Software Advice.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
User-Friendly Interface: Get Connected is widely appreciated for its clean, intuitive interface, making it easy for both volunteers and administrators to navigate and use effectively. Comprehensive Feature Set: Get Connected provides a robust set of tools for volunteer management, including recruitment, scheduling, and reporting, which many users find essential for their operations. Mobile Accessibility: The mobile app is well-regarded for allowing volunteers to manage their activities on the go, enhancing convenience and engagement. | Initial Learning Curve: Some users report that the back-end of the software can be difficult to navigate, particularly during the initial setup phase. This can require additional time and training to fully understand the system. Limited Advanced Customization: While the platform offers solid customization options, a few users feel that more advanced customization features, particularly in reporting and data management, could improve the user experience. Cost Considerations: Some users have noted that the pricing may be higher than expected for smaller organizations, especially when considering additional features or support. |
Plans & Pricing
Get Connected offers a range of pricing plans tailored to different organizational needs.
The platform provides options for single-site management as well as more advanced systems that support multiple locations and coordinators.
Pricing details are available upon request, and organizations can choose plans based on the specific features and scale required.
All plans include core features like volunteer recruitment, scheduling, and communication tools, with additional costs for premium features.asks, and various payment options, including credit cards, PayPal, and crypto. Pricing is not disclosed directly and requires contact with Funraise for detailed information.
9. Giveffect
Giveffect is an all-in-one nonprofit software platform that integrates a wide range of tools, including volunteer management, fundraising, CRM, and event management, into a single system. The platform is designed to reduce manual work and streamline operations by automating data entry and centralizing information across different departments.
Features
Giveffect includes several features specifically tailored to volunteer management:
- Volunteer profiles
- A volunteer database
- Scheduling
- Shift management
- Online applications
- Waivers
- Event integration
- Reporting and analytics
Pros & Cons
Below is a summary of the key pros and cons of using Giveffect based on customer reviews.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Comprehensive Integration: Giveffect’s ability to integrate volunteer management with other nonprofit functions like donor management and event planning is highly valued. This integration helps organizations maintain a cohesive and efficient operation. Ease of Use: Users appreciate the intuitive design of the platform, which simplifies the management of volunteers and reduces the learning curve for staff. Automation Capabilities: The platform’s automation features, including automated data entry and workflows, significantly reduce the time spent on administrative tasks, allowing staff to focus more on mission-critical activities. | Cost Considerations: Some users note that while Giveffect offers a comprehensive solution, the pricing can be on the higher side, particularly when additional features or customizations are required. Complexity in Customization: Although the platform is user-friendly, some users find that customizing certain features to meet specific needs can be challenging and may require additional support or training. Limitations in Marketing Tools: A few users have expressed concerns about the platform’s marketing tools, indicating that they are less robust compared to other areas of the software. |
Plans & Pricing
Giveffect offers several pricing tiers designed to accommodate nonprofits of different sizes and needs.
The Starter plan begins at $399 per month, providing access to essential features such as volunteer management, donor management, and event management for up to 2,000 contacts.
For larger organizations, the Ultimate and Ultimate Lite plans offer expanded capabilities and contact records, with pricing available upon request. These plans include additional features like workflow automation, website hosting, and advanced reporting.es.
10. Mobilize
Mobilize, a product by Bonterra, is a volunteer and event management platform designed to help nonprofits and advocacy organizations engage supporters, manage events, and drive volunteer action. The platform is known for its ease of use and ability to connect organizations with a large network of potential volunteers.
Features
Mobilize offers a variety of features tailored to enhance volunteer and event management:
- Volunteer recruitment
- Event management
- Automated communications
- Data integration and CRM
- Custom branding
Pros & Cons
Here’s what customers have shared about using Mobilize on G2, Capterra, and Software Advice.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Ease of Use: Mobilize is widely praised for its user-friendly interface, which simplifies the process of setting up events, recruiting volunteers, and managing communications. Effective Volunteer Recruitment: Mobilize’s ability to tap into a large network of supporters makes it highly effective for organizations looking to expand their volunteer base quickly. Automation Features: The platform’s automated communications help reduce the manual work involved in managing volunteer interactions, leading to better engagement and time savings. | Cost Considerations: Some users find the pricing to be relatively high, especially for smaller organizations or those with limited budgets. However, many agree that the platform’s features justify the cost. Event Setup Limitations: A few users have noted that there is no option to save events as drafts before publishing, which can be inconvenient during the event planning process. Limited Customization Options: While Mobilize offers branding capabilities, some users feel that the platform could benefit from more customization options, particularly in filtering and event management. Learning Curve for New Users: Although the platform is generally easy to use, new users may experience a learning curve when navigating certain features, particularly if they are unfamiliar with similar tools. |
Plans & Pricing
Mobilize operates on a tiered pricing model, with specific plans tailored to the needs of different organizations.
Pricing details are typically available upon request, allowing organizations to choose the package that best fits their requirements.
Each plan includes access to core features such as volunteer recruitment, event management, and automated communications, with additional costs for premium features or integrations.
11. Rosterfy
Rosterfy is a robust volunteer management platform designed to help organizations streamline and automate the management of their volunteer programs. The software is used by a wide range of organizations, from nonprofits and charities to government bodies and large-scale events. Rosterfy is built to handle the entire volunteer lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding to scheduling, training, and reporting. With a focus on automation, Rosterfy reduces administrative workload, enabling organizations to scale their volunteer programs efficiently.
Features
Rosterfy offers a comprehensive suite of features to enhance volunteer management, including:
- Automated onboarding
- Training
- Volunteer scheduling
- Shift management
- Volunteer portals
- Reporting and analytics
- Group and team management
- Custom branding and communication
- Integrations
Pros & Cons
Here’s what customers have shared about using Rosterfy:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
User-Friendly Interface: Rosterfy is praised for its intuitive and easy-to-use interface, making it accessible for both administrators and volunteers. This simplicity reduces the learning curve and enhances the user experience. Automation and Efficiency: The platform’s automation features significantly reduce the administrative burden on organizations, allowing them to focus more on engaging volunteers and less on manual tasks. Scalability: Rosterfy is highly scalable, making it suitable for organizations of all sizes, from small nonprofits to large-scale events that manage thousands of volunteers. | Implementation Complexity: Some users have reported that the initial setup and implementation of Rosterfy can be challenging, particularly for organizations with complex needs. This process may require additional support and time. Customization Limitations: While Rosterfy offers a range of customizable features, a few users feel that certain aspects, such as advanced reporting or specific workflow customizations, could be more flexible. Cost Considerations: Some users mention that Rosterfy’s pricing can be on the higher side, especially for smaller organizations with limited budgets. |
Plans & Pricing
Rosterfy offers several pricing tiers based on the needs and size of the organization.
Pricing typically includes access to core features like volunteer onboarding, scheduling, and reporting, with additional costs for premium features or larger-scale operations.
Specific pricing details are available upon request, allowing organizations to tailor their package based on their requirements.
12. SignUpGenius
SignUpGenius is a versatile online sign-up tool designed to simplify event planning, volunteer management, and group organizing. The platform is widely used across various sectors, including education, nonprofits, and businesses, to manage sign-ups for events, meetings, and volunteer shifts. Known for its user-friendly interface, SignUpGenius allows organizers to create customized sign-up forms, send automated reminders, and collect payments or donations.
Features
SignUpGenius offers a comprehensive set of features aimed at enhancing the organization and management of events and volunteer activities, including:
- Customizable sign-up forms
- Automated messaging and reminders
- Group management
- Event management
- Reporting and analytics
- Payment tools
- Donation tools
Pros & Cons
Here’s a summary of the key pros and cons of using SignUpGenius:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Ease of Use: SignUpGenius is highly regarded for its intuitive interface, which makes it easy for both organizers and participants to navigate. Users frequently highlight the platform’s simplicity and the minimal training required to get started. Automation and Efficiency: The automated messaging and reminder features significantly reduce the administrative workload, allowing organizers to focus on other important tasks. This automation is especially beneficial for managing large groups and complex events. Customizable and Flexible: The ability to customize sign-up forms, including adding custom questions and themes, is appreciated by users who need to tailor the platform to specific event requirements. Cost-Effective: Many users find SignUpGenius to be an affordable solution, especially with its free tier, which offers basic functionalities. Even paid plans are seen as providing good value for the range of features offered. | Ads on Free Version: One of the most common complaints about the free version of SignUpGenius is the presence of ads, which can detract from the professional appearance of sign-ups. Users on the free plan often wish for more control over the types of ads displayed. Learning Curve for Advanced Features: While the platform is generally easy to use, some users report difficulties when setting up more complex sign-ups or utilizing advanced features. This can require additional time or support to fully leverage the platform’s capabilities. Mobile Interface Limitations: Some users have noted inconsistencies between the desktop and mobile versions of SignUpGenius, particularly in terms of functionality and ease of use. This can lead to confusion among participants when accessing sign-ups from different devices. Pricing Concerns for Small Organizations: Although SignUpGenius is cost-effective for many, smaller organizations with tight budgets may find the cost of premium plans prohibitive, especially if they require advanced features like custom branding or priority support. |
Plans & Pricing
SignUpGenius offers a tiered pricing structure that includes both free and premium plans.
The free version provides basic features with ad-supported sign-ups. Premium plans start at $11.99 per month, offering additional benefits like custom themes, increased email and text message limits, and priority customer support.
Higher-tier plans, such as the Gold plan, are available for $269.89 annually and include features like unlimited custom themes, 10,000 emails, 500 texts per month, and advanced reporting options.
13. Track It Forward
Track It Forward is a volunteer time-tracking platform that offers a straightforward and user-friendly solution for organizations that need to log, verify, and report volunteer hours. Designed for simplicity and efficiency, Track It Forward is ideal for small to midsize nonprofits, schools, and community organizations. The platform focuses on making volunteer hour tracking easy and accessible, with additional features for event management, reporting, and volunteer communication.
Features
Track It Forward offers a range of features designed to simplify volunteer management, like:
- Volunteer time tracking
- Reporting and analytics
- Event management
- Mobile accessibility
- Milestone tracking
Pros & Cons
Below is a summary of the key pros and cons of using Track It Forward:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Ease of Use: Track It Forward is frequently praised for its user-friendly interface, making it simple for volunteers and administrators to log hours, manage profiles, and generate reports without extensive training. Affordable Pricing: Many users appreciate the platform’s affordability, especially given the range of features it offers. This makes it a viable option for smaller organizations or those with limited budgets. Mobile-Friendly: The platform’s mobile app is well-regarded for its functionality, allowing volunteers to log hours and sign up for events on the go, which enhances convenience and accessibility. | Limited Advanced Features: Some users feel that Track It Forward lacks more advanced features found in other volunteer management systems, particularly in areas like detailed reporting and event management. Cosmetic and UI Limitations: A few users have noted that the platform’s interface can appear outdated, and there are minor usability issues that could be improved for a smoother experience. Reporting Flexibility: While the reporting tools are useful, some users find that they cannot customize reports as extensively as they would like, which may require manual adjustments outside the platform. Event Management Constraints: The ability to manage event details, such as setting specific start and end times, is somewhat limited, which can be a drawback for organizations that need more precise scheduling options. |
Plans & Pricing
Track It Forward offers a flexible pricing structure, starting with a free basic plan that includes essential features for small organizations.
Paid plans begin at $12 per month and offer additional functionalities such as milestone tracking, digital event sign-in sheets, and advanced reporting options.
Custom enterprise solutions are also available for larger organizations with more complex needs.
14. Volunteer Impact by Better Impact
Volunteer Impact by Better Impact is a volunteer management software designed to help organizations streamline their volunteer programs from recruitment to retention. The platform offers a wide range of features aimed at reducing administrative workload while enhancing volunteer engagement throughout the volunteer lifecycle. Volunteer Impact is used by nonprofits, government agencies, and community groups of all sizes to manage volunteer data, scheduling, communication, and reporting.
Features
Volunteer Impact provides a robust set of features tailored to the needs of organizations managing volunteers:
- Volunteer profiles
- Database management
- Scheduling
- Shift management
- Communication tools
- Reporting and analytics
- Training
- Onboarding
Pros & Cons
Here’s a summary of the key pros and cons of using Volunteer Impact based on customer reviews.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Comprehensive Feature Set: Volunteer Impact offers a wide range of features that cover all aspects of volunteer management, from recruitment to reporting. This comprehensive approach makes it a one-stop solution for many organizationsUser- Friendly Interface: Volunteer Impact is praised for its clean and intuitive design, making it easy for both administrators and volunteers to navigate the platform. Users appreciate the straightforward layout and the ease with which they can access the features they need. Customizability: The platform’s ability to customize volunteer profiles, application forms, and scheduling options is highly valued by users, who find these features essential for meeting the specific needs of their organizations. | Complex Reporting: While the platform offers robust reporting tools, some users find them difficult to navigate and customize. The variety of options can be overwhelming, requiring additional time to learn how to generate the desired reports. Learning Curve: Despite its user-friendly interface, some users mention a learning curve when initially setting up and using Volunteer Impact, particularly when configuring the more advanced features. Limited Flexibility for Events: A few users have noted that the platform could offer more flexibility in managing events, such as enhanced options for volunteer roles or more detailed scheduling capabilities. Cost Considerations: While many users find value in the software, some smaller organizations feel that the pricing is on the higher side, especially when additional training or customization is required. |
Plans & Pricing
Volunteer Impact offers several pricing tiers to accommodate different organizational needs.
The Standard Edition is priced based on the number of active volunteers and includes unlimited administrators.
For organizations with multiple branches or locations, the Enterprise Edition offers additional features like sub-account management and more advanced reporting capabilities.
Pricing is billed annually and can be adjusted based on the number of volunteers or the level of support required.
15. VolunteerMatters
VolunteerMatters is a volunteer management platform designed to streamline the entire volunteer lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding to scheduling and reporting. Tailored for organizations of all sizes, VolunteerMatters focuses on improving volunteer engagement, reducing administrative burdens, and ensuring compliance with volunteer policies. The platform offers a suite of tools that cater to the unique needs of various organizations, including nonprofits, educational institutions, and community groups.
Features
VolunteerMatters offers a wide array of features aimed at enhancing volunteer management:
- Volunteer recruitment
- Scheduling
- Time tracking
- Communication tools
- Reporting and analytics
- Volunteer onboarding
- Training
Pros & Cons
Below is a summary of users’ key pros and cons of using VolunteerMatters.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Ease of Use: VolunteerMatters is praised for its intuitive interface and ease of use, allowing both administrators and volunteers to navigate the platform with minimal training. Users appreciate the straightforward design and the efficiency it brings to volunteer management. Comprehensive Feature Set: The platform offers a broad range of features that cover all aspects of volunteer management, from recruitment to reporting. This makes it a versatile tool for organizations looking to centralize their volunteer operations. Automation Capabilities: The automation features, particularly in recruitment, onboarding, and communication, significantly reduce administrative tasks and help organizations manage large volunteer programs more efficiently. | Cost Considerations: While VolunteerMatters offers a robust set of features, some users find the pricing to be on the higher side, particularly for smaller organizations. The additional costs for premium features may be prohibitive for those with limited budgets. Learning Curve for Advanced Features: Although the platform is generally user-friendly, some users report a learning curve when using more advanced features, such as custom reporting and API integrations. This can require additional time or support. Limited Flexibility in Bulk Operations: A few users have noted the lack of bulk operation capabilities, such as bulk deleting shifts or making mass updates, which can be inconvenient for larger volunteer programs. Event Management Constraints: While VolunteerMatters is effective for general volunteer management, some users feel that the platform could offer more advanced event management features, such as detailed role assignments and more complex scheduling options. |
Plans & Pricing
VolunteerMatters offers a tiered pricing structure with plans suited to different organizational needs.
The Growing plan starts at $219 per month, accommodating up to 250 volunteers and two administrators, and includes features such as time tracking, project management, and automated reminders.
The Professional plan, priced at $379 per month, supports up to 2,000 volunteers and 10 administrators, with additional features like API integrations, SSO, and concierge support.
For large organizations, the Enterprise plan offers a custom pricing model tailored to specific requirements, including multi-site management and custom development options.
16. VSys One
VSys One, developed by Bespoke Software, is a volunteer management solution designed for organizations with complex volunteer needs. The platform is highly customizable, allowing organizations to tailor everything from volunteer onboarding processes to detailed reporting. VSys One is known for its flexibility, offering a variety of modules that can be used individually or together, including VSys Live for real-time volunteer interaction and VSys Anywhere for web-based access.
Features
VSys One offers a comprehensive suite of features to manage every aspect of volunteer programs:
- Volunteer onboarding
- Screening
- Scheduling
- Shift management
- Reporting and analytics.
- Communication tools
- Integrations
- Data management
Pros & Cons
Below is a summary of customer reviews of VSys One:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
High Customizability: The platform’s ability to be customized to meet specific organizational needs is a significant advantage. Users can tailor applications, workflows, and reports to fit their unique requirements, making it a powerful tool for complex volunteer programs. Comprehensive Feature Set: VSys One offers a wide range of features that cover all aspects of volunteer management, from onboarding and scheduling to reporting and communication. This makes it a versatile solution for large organizations. Robust Data Management: The platform’s ability to handle large volumes of data securely and integrate with other systems is highly valued, particularly by organizations that require compliance with regulations like HIPAA. | Complexity and Learning Curve: Despite its powerful features, VSys One is noted for its complexity, which can be a barrier for some users. The platform has a steep learning curve, particularly when setting up advanced features, which may require significant time and training to master. User Interface Challenges: Some users report that the user interface can be difficult to navigate, especially for those who are less tech-savvy. The complexity of the interface can lead to frustration, particularly when trying to access specific features or reports. High Cost: VSys One is considered a premium solution, and some users feel that the pricing is high, especially for smaller organizations. The cost may be justified by the comprehensive feature set, but it can be a barrier for organizations with limited budgets. Inconsistent Functionality: There are occasional reports of system glitches or features not working as expected, such as notifications failing or sections of forms becoming unresponsive. These issues can disrupt workflow and require technical support to resolve. |
Plans & Pricing
VSys One offers customized pricing based on the specific needs and size of the organization. Pricing is not listed publicly, as it varies depending on the modules and features required.
The platform does not charge based on the number of volunteers managed, allowing for scalability without increasing costs per volunteer.
Organizations interested in VSys One can request a personalized quote from Bespoke Software, which includes support and training during the initial implementation phase.
Your Buyer’s Guide for Volunteer Management Software
Selecting the right volunteer management software can significantly enhance your ability to recruit, manage, and retain volunteers.
But finding a solution that fits your organization’s unique needs requires that you carefully consider factors like features, budget, and customer support.
Here’s a basic, step-by-step guide to walk you through the buying process!
Start by Assessing Your Needs
Before diving into all the different software options out there, take time to analyze your current volunteer management processes and identify what you want to improve.
Start by identifying the key features that are essential for your organization.
For example, if scheduling volunteer shifts is time-consuming for you, prioritize software with robust scheduling capabilities. If communication is a challenge, look for platforms with built-in email and SMS tools. If you rely heavily on data, reporting and analytics tools should be a top priority.
Remember, the right software will not only address your current challenges but also offer tools for future growth.
Next, consider the size and diversity of your volunteer base.
A small nonprofit with a few dozen local volunteers will have different needs than a large organization that needs to manage thousands of volunteers across multiple locations. Features like multilingual support, mobile access, and group management are crucial if you serve a diverse volunteer population.
If your volunteer base includes younger, tech-savvy individuals, opt for software with user-friendly apps and social media integration to boost engagement.
Finally, examine your existing volunteer management processes to identify inefficiencies. Are you losing valuable time manually entering data, managing schedules, or communicating with volunteers?
Identifying your main pain points will help you determine which features will make the most impact on your day-to-day operations. For example, if you struggle with volunteer onboarding, software that automates application tracking, background checks, and training materials could be transformative.
Consider Your Budget
Just like the needs of different nonprofits are unique to each organization, volunteer management software solutions can also range from free basic tools to premium platforms with advanced features.
That’s why it’s important to balance your budget with your organization’s needs!
While budget is always a concern, consider the software as an investment in efficiency. The right tool can save you time, improve your volunteers’ satisfaction, and even increase your retention rates. That can translate into a positive return on investment (ROI).
When evaluating costs, weigh the potential benefits—such as time saved, improved communication, and better reporting—against the expense of the software.
If your organization is growing, opt for a scalable software solution that offers tiered pricing plans. This allows you to start with a basic package and upgrade as your volunteer program expands.
Scalable solutions are cost-effective, and they’ll also ensure that your software can adapt to changing needs. This will help prevent the need for a complete system overhaul down the line.
Finally, be wary of potential hidden costs that might arise. Ask vendors about any extra costs upfront, including charges for integrations, add-ons, or exceeding volunteer limits.
A clear understanding of the total cost of ownership will prevent surprises and ensure that the software remains within your budget.
See the Software in Action
Nothing beats hearing from other users when it comes to evaluating software.
User reviews provide insights into how the software performs in real-world scenarios. That’s why we included pros and cons drawn from real user reviews in this article!
But don’t take our word for it: consult user reviews on platforms like Capterra, G2, and Software Advice to understand user experience, common challenges, and software strengths.
Look for consistent themes in feedback—whether positive or negative—to get a sense of how well the software aligns with your needs.
Pay close attention to reviews from organizations similar in size and mission to your own, as their experiences may be more relevant.
Next, schedule demos with the software providers on your shortlist. This will allow you to see the software in action and ask questions specific to your organization’s requirements.
During the demo, pay attention to the interface, ease of use, and key features. Be sure to ask about any customization options and how the software can be tailored to meet your specific needs.
Prioritize Training & Support
Before you say “yes” to a solution, make sure that they have the support and training resources available to help you make the most of their software. This is especially important during the implementation process!
A successful software implementation depends on adequate training for both your staff and your volunteers. Check to see if the software provider offers webinars, tutorials, and user guides.
Some vendors also provide one-on-one training sessions or onboarding specialists to ensure a smooth transition. Ample training resources can accelerate adoption in your organization and increase user satisfaction.
Volunteer management software is not a one-time purchase—it requires ongoing updates, support, and maintenance.
Consider whether the vendor offers ongoing support, regular updates, and new features to keep the software current and compliant with industry standards.
Ensure that any ongoing support is included in your contract, as this will ensure the software runs smoothly and remains effective over time.
Neon CRM Can Boost Your Volunteer Management
Finding the right volunteer management software solution is all about finding the one that works best for you—a solution that balances cost, features, and ease of use. That’s a tall order, but you’ll be helping your volunteers put their passion into action and place everyone (you, them, your nonprofit, your community) in a position to succeed.
Neon CRM is a comprehensive nonprofit management solution that combines a robot donor management platform with a wide array of features covering fundraising, email, memberships, events. Volunteers, grants, donation forms, payments, and more!
We can’t promise we’re the volunteer solution for you, but we’d like to talk to you, learn about your organization, and show you how we can help. Learn more about Neon CRM by joining a group demo or signing up for a personal demo today!
See Neon CRM in Action!
In just 30 minutes, you’ll learn how Neon CRM empowers nonprofit organizations across the US and Canada to manage donors, members, volunteers, grants, and fundraising campaigns!
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