In the midst of the COVID-19 shutdown, when many of our peers had cancelled or postponed gatherings of volunteer leaders, Dartmouth executed a two-day training conference for 150 of our top volunteers from around the globe. We provided a much-needed, fully-encompassing shared experience consisting of alumni-led workshops, interactive sessions with administrators, specially designed “lounges” for conversation and networking, and a gameshow-like showdown. In advance of the retreat, participants received a gift box of items designed and curated to create tangible comradery. Evaluations of the retreat were exceptionally high, and within one week of the retreat, attendees donated $6M in new gifts.
From the Judges
Loved the idea of "fostering volunteer-to-volunteer connections." Curated gift boxes to create a feeling of tangible camaraderie was thoughtful. Excellent use of Spotify playlists to generate a sense of space for volunteers—a very creative approach to engagement. Website, promo assets, and video were well designed/produced, and clean. Programming felt very fresh and energetic overall.
