#1 Volunteer Program in Nashville? Here’s What We’ve Learned.
This year we were honored to be rated #1 volunteer program in Nashville! Here are 8 things we’ve learned about building great volunteer programs.
The best programs aren’t just well-run—they’re person-centered. At The Store, volunteers aren’t an add-on to the mission. They are the mission. These are principles we return to, lessons we keep learning, and practices we’re still improving.
Maybe something here will be useful in your world, too.
1. Begin with Connection. The heart of volunteering isn’t in the task—it’s in the people. We create space for real encounter and mutual respect. That’s where the transformation happens.
2. Celebrate generously, often, and sincerely. We host formal appreciation events—but also send notes, share shoutouts, and create moments of in-shift recognition. Every thank you matters.
3. Share the real impact. We show them: You helped fill 11,000 carts. That’s 375,000 meals. Nearly half a million dollars in contributed time. We don’t just say thank you—we show it.
4. Keep in touch—even when they’re not on-site. We connect through emails, newsletters, and social posts. Even off-site, they’re part of the heartbeat.
5. Train well, every time. Each shift begins with a clear orientation and on-the-floor support. It’s simple, but it sets a tone of care.
6. Have dedicated leadership. Each shift includes a staff member or seasoned leader. That consistency builds confidence and community.
7. Communicate through many channels. Not everyone reads every email—so we use text, email, and portal updates to meet people where they are.
8. Listen, and respond. We don’t just gather feedback—we act on it and tell them what changed. That’s dignity in action. Building With, Not For.
A strong volunteer program is something you build with people, not for them.
We’re still learning. Still listening. But every shift and every cart is a small testament to community-led impact.
I’d love to hear: What’s made you feel engaged and valued as a volunteer? What’s been missing when it didn’t quite fit?
This year, The Store was honored to be named the top volunteer program in Nashville—a recognition we don’t take lightly. Volunteers aren’t just part of the mission. They are the mission. We’ve rounded up 8 lessons that have shaped our approach—principles we return to again and again. Whether you lead volunteers or are one, we hope you’ll find something useful in what we’ve learned (and are still learning).
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