Nonprofit Trends
Every hour someone gives to your organization is a gift, but do you know what that gift is actually worth?
According to data from Independent Sector, the average value of volunteer time in 2024 was $33.49 per hour in the U.S. (with variations by state).
This adds up quickly and helps put into perspective just how vital volunteers are to your mission.
Why It Matters
Too often, the contributions of volunteers are seen as “extra” rather than essential. But when we look at the financial value of donated time, we see it’s anything but small.
Volunteers aren’t just filling in the gaps, they’re multiplying your impact and extending your team’s capacity. Recognizing their value (in both your culture and your reporting) helps you build stronger donor cases, advocate for your programs, and retain the people who fuel your work.
While organizations benefit from volunteer hours, often the volunteer is also blessed because giving time and energy to others creates a sense of purpose, connection, and joy.
At Eaglecom, we understand this firsthand—we’ve had the privilege of volunteering with local and global relief efforts, children and youth programs, care facilities, and churches.
Next Steps
Recognizing their value (in both your culture and your reporting) helps you build stronger donor cases, advocate for your programs, and retain the people who fuel your work.
1. Put a number to it. Use this value chart to estimate the value of your volunteers’ time
2. Update your reporting. Include volunteer hours and estimated value in your impact reports and donor communications
3. Say thank you in a new way. Highlight the economic impact of your volunteers at your next event or in a special recognition message—it might just deepen their sense of purpose and belonging
Learn more here.
How are you currently recognizing and reporting the impact of your volunteers?
Jonathan Andrews
Director of Media | jonathan@eaglecom.ca