Overview of The Volunteer Toolbox

The Volunteer Toolbox is a comprehensive resource designed to help local governments establish and enhance volunteer programs. Developed by the National Association of Counties (NACo) in partnership with the National Association of Volunteer Program Leaders in Government (NAVPLG), the toolbox provides practical strategies and tools for building strong, sustainable volunteer initiatives.

Volunteers are indispensable to local governments, contributing to nearly every facet of operations and enabling municipalities to provide essential services to their communities. By fostering collaboration between skilled volunteers and public employees, local governments can create innovative and cost-effective solutions to address community needs. The Volunteer Toolbox serves as a guide to empower leaders to engage citizens, maximize the impact of volunteerism, and build thriving, resilient communities.

Announcement regarding the fourth eduction of the Volunteer Toolbox

The National Association of Volunteer Program Leaders in Government (NAVPLG), in partnership with the National Association of Counties (NACo), is excited to announce the development of the third edition of the "Volunteer Toolbox," slated for release in the first half of 2025. Building upon the foundations laid by the 1990 and 1996 editions—which inspired the creation of NAVPLG—and the comprehensive 2012 update, this forthcoming edition aims to provide local governments with enhanced strategies and resources to establish and expand volunteer programs. The "Volunteer Toolbox" serves as a practical guide and a catalyst for fostering energized and healthy communities through the power of volunteer service.

Join NAVPLG – Empowering Leaders in Volunteer Engagement

Are you ready to transform your volunteer program and advance your career? NAVPLG is your trusted network for the tools, resources, insights, and connections you need to excel.

When you join, you’ll become part of a vibrant community of professionals committed to driving meaningful change in public sector volunteerism. Together, we inspire innovation, foster collaboration, and amplify the impact of volunteer engagement.

Exclusive Member Benefits Include:

Together, let’s strengthen the impact of volunteerism in government!

Introduction to the Volunteer Toolbox, Third Edition

This third edition of the Volunteer Toolbox has been updated to reflect the evolving needs of local governments and their communities. With rising service demands and limited resources, the urgency to leverage volunteer programs has never been greater. Local leaders face unique challenges, and this revised edition provides them with actionable insights and new resources to meet these demands.

Beyond practical guidance, the updated toolbox emphasizes the transformative potential of volunteerism in building healthier, more connected communities. It highlights how local leaders can inspire citizens to take an active role in public service, creating partnerships that strengthen civic engagement and community resilience. This edition reaffirms NACo and NAVPLG’s commitment to equipping government leaders with the tools to harness the power of volunteer service effectively.




Volunteer Toolbox, 3rd Edition

e-book/PDF Document - February 2012
by NACo and NAVPLG
A Publication of the Research Division of NACo’s County Services Department
Revised by Sarah Sunderman, Research Associate, in collaboration with The National Association of Volunteer Programs in Local Government (NAVPLG)

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Previous Editions

Volunteer Toolbox, 3rd Edition (2012) Washington, DC: National Association of Counties.
The Volunteer Toolbox, 2nd Edition (1996) Washington, DC: National Association of Counties.

The Volunteer Toolbox. (1990) Washington, DC: National Association of Counties.