Volunteer Management Strategies to Improve the Community Alignment of Public Administration Programs in the Andalusian Volunteer Plan

Previous research has identified a set of effective strategies for volunteer management, including a clear definition of the organizational mission and assigned tasks, appropriate recruitment, selection, and training practices, and personalized supervision, reinforcement, and ongoing support. However, volunteer participation in public administration programs has specific characteristics that may require the adaptation of management strategies. This study examines eight programs run by the Andalusian public administration (southern Spain) involving volunteer participation. In the first quantitative phase, 18 public service managers from the Andalusian administration completed 54 evaluation forms, each corresponding to a project funded by the regional volunteer plan. In the second qualitative phase, interviews were conducted with 24 key informants, including public administration officials (n = 6), volunteer program coordinators (n = 11), and volunteers (n = 7). The results allowed for identifying three types of volunteer initiatives within public administration: peer education programs, which leverage the multiplier effect of volunteers; volunteer camps, which promote competencies for civic participation; and programs where volunteers provide social support and logistical assistance. Volunteer management strategies are adapted according to the type of program. We conclude that through volunteer participation, public administrations can mobilize community resources and expand their operational capacity.