Dear VAN Members,
February is a month often associated with care and kindness, and it feels especially fitting for the work you do every day in our community. Caring deeply and spreading kindness is in our blood stream, and we don’t often take the time to pause and reflect on all the goodness we produce. So, while we are still fresh into 2026, I want to invite you to take a pause, if only briefly, and notice the connections all around you that keep you going.
As volunteer administrators, you are builders of belonging. You create spaces where people feel welcomed, valued, and inspired to give their time and talents. Whether you’re recruiting new volunteers, supporting long-time champions, or quietly solving problems behind the scenes, your impact ripples far beyond what’s visible.
This time of year can feel busy, cold, and a little relentless—but I hope you’ll take a moment to warm up by recognizing the difference you make. As we move through February, may you feel encouraged by your peers, proud of your work, and energized by what’s ahead. And if you need help finding some inspiration, join us at the upcoming PD Session (Feb. 19) or Winter Social Hike (Feb. 9), keep reading below for more details.
The Volunteer Administrators’ Network (VAN) exists because of your dedication, your willingness to learn from one another, and your belief that community is stronger when we show up together. Thank you for leading with heart, professionalism, and purpose. We’re so grateful to be on this journey with you and hope to see you soon!
Shannon Maurer
VAN Board President
Volunteer Coordinator, City of Dublin
February Professional Development:
WHEN:Thursday, February 19th | 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
LOCATION:Columbus Main Library - 98 S. Grant Ave. 43215 -Room 3B
DETAILS:Strategic Personal Development: The Strategy of You
Join us as we welcome a new speaker, Brandi. During this session you will have the opportunity to empower yourself to build awareness, articulate core values, and set meaningful goals using a transformative framework for personal and professional growth.
Just as Shannon mentioned earlier, this is the perfect season to reflect and build onto lasting habits for the upcoming year. Come for the coffee and breakfast - stay for the conversation, connection, and opportunity to make your personal growth stand out
Walking around in your VANS:
*A section dedicated to news and announcements that are happening in the volunteer world and your local area.*
Winter Hike Social:
Join VAN for the first social of the year, a winter hike at Quarry Trails Metro Park! ❄️
Beat the cold and get active with fellow VAN members. Stroll with us on a light 1-2 mile hike on Monday, February 9th at 5:30pm. We will be meeting at 2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026. The park has multiple entrances so ensure you put this address into your GPS. Option to stay after to get a drink/snack and play some trivia!
If you would like to attend or have any questions, please email Cody -csalyers@vantageaging.org.
Serve Ohio Award:Do you know an outstanding volunteer making a positive impact in their community? Nominate them for a ServeOhio Award!
Nominations are open nowthrough February 16, 2026. Submit your application for your all-star volunteerhere.
Free Online Seminar:Am I Making the Right Decision? The Role of Ethics in Volunteer Engagement
Date/Time
2/19/2026
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Eastern
Register Here
Points of Light Survey:We’re helping shape a new National Volunteer Strategy, and your voice is essential. Points of Light and partners across sectors are gathering insights from individuals, nonprofits, businesses, philanthropy and organizations across the U.S. Take the Organizational Survey: https://publicinput.com/reimaginingservice-OHOrg
Take the Individual Community Member survey: https://publicinput.com/reimaginingservice-OHInd
JOB POSTINGS:
Our website is full of joblistings in central Ohio! If you're a VAN Central Ohio memberlooking for a position working with volunteers, you canclick here to access the page.There are many local openingsincluding positions atCAPAand MORE!Postings are updated throughout the month, so log in and check back often!
Newsletter Dessert:
Q: What did the French groundhog see on February 2nd?
A: His chateau.
New Year, Fresh Membership Renewal! Check to see if your membership is up-to-date by logging in online at vancentralohio.org!
Love being a part of VAN? We do too! Share our info with a colleague or friend who might benefit from our PD Sessions, Discussions, Networking, Conference Access, and more. The first session is always free!