Dear VAN Members,
April is a special time for all of us at VAN as we celebrate National Volunteer Month, an opportunity to recognize the incredible individuals who give their time, talents, and hearts to our organizations. Because of your leadership, expertise, and care, volunteers don’t just show up, they are welcomed, valued, and equipped with the tools they need to make a difference.
To each of you, thank you. Thank you for the creativity you bring to engaging volunteers, for the care you show in building inclusive and meaningful experiences, and for the dedication you demonstrate even in the busiest of seasons (if April kicks off your busy season, I am with you)!
Spring is also a time of growth, and I encourage you to take a moment this month to reflect on the seeds you’ve planted. From new ideas, partnerships, and opportunities, to continuing your journey on the “Strategy of You” workbook. Our network is stronger because of your willingness to share, show up, collaborate, and support one another.
Here’s to wishing you a Happy National Volunteer Month! I hope April is filled with fresh inspiration, renewed energy, and continued success. Thank you, once again, for all you do to elevate volunteerism in our communities.
With gratitude,
Shannon Maurer, Board President
Professional Development:
Last month we had an amazing session where we got to meet with the leadership team from #SaveTheCrew. So many themes came up that day, but community and resilience were two major words that continued to show up. We learned how this amazing movement turned into one of the biggest fan led changes the sport community has ever seen.
We were reminded why community is so important and how we can be leaders within our own circles and organizations. It takes dedication, time, creativity, and enthusiasm but if you can combine all of those things and keep the momentum going, you can make BIG change. This session was so empowering, and we hope that you were able to leave feeling like you are ready to make the next big change.
If you missed this session, you can watch a little clip about the movement and hear why it was so impactful.
April Professional Development:
WHEN: Thursday April 16th – 9:00am – 11:00am
LOCATION: Schiller Community Center - 1069 Jaeger St. Columbus Ohio 43206
DETAILS:Katharine Moore, President of Friends of Schiller Park, will present on the history of the volunteer organization and tour the garden spaces they maintain within the park. Light breakfast will be provided.
Walking around in your VANS:
*A section dedicated to news and announcements that are happening in the volunteer world and your local area. *
Double the Donation and Better Impact come together to bring you a really powerful virtual presentation and session. Modern supporters don't view themselves as just "donors" or "volunteers;" they view themselves as partners in your mission. Yet, for too long, Development and Volunteer Management have operated in separate lanes, often competing for resources rather than collaborating for impact.
The data is clear: your best donors are often your volunteers, and your most dedicated volunteers are waiting to be asked to give. Tune in as our panel of experts discuss how to make the shift to an integrated fundraising & volunteering strategy.
The session will take place on Wednesday, April 29th at 12:30pm. To learn more and register, follow this link.
Saturday, May 16, 2026 • 11am-3pm • Land-Grant’s Gravity Experience Park
Celebrate community, connection, and creativity at the Columbus Volunteer Festival, a lively open-air event that highlights dozens of local nonprofits and community partners.
Enjoy an inspiring day filled with live music, food trucks, interactive on-site volunteer activities, and pop-up booths featuring Central Ohio nonprofits, arts organizations, community resources, and more.
Free and open to all — join us for a day of purpose and participation!
Job Postings:
Our website is full of job listings in central Ohio! If you're a VAN Central Ohio member looking for a position working with volunteers, you can click here to access the page. Postings are updated throughout the month, so log in and check back often!
Newsletter Dessert:
Q: What kind of shoes do frogs wear in the springtime when it starts to get warm?
A: Open-Toad.
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!