How to Recruit Community Volunteers That Stick

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Why is it so hard to get people to raise their hand and volunteer? If you’ve ever felt like recruiting HOA volunteers is an uphill climb, you’re not alone. In this episode of AMG’s Community Leaders Series – CEO Paul Mengert shares proven, real-world strategies to attract, engage, and retain volunteers—without burnout or drama. From welcoming new neighbors to building a positive culture and creating a “farm team” for future leaders, this episode shows how strong communities grow when volunteering feels inviting, meaningful, and valued.

Paul K. Mengert is the founder and CEO of Association Management Group (AMG). He holds both the Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) and Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM) designations. Paul is a Community Associations Institute (CAI) National Faculty Member, lecturer at Wake Forest Law School, teaches for the Harvard Business School Alumni of Charlotte program at Queens University and is a frequent speaker at conferences such as the CAI’s National Conference and Law Seminar. He is also the Chairman of the Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI) Board, and Chair of the North Carolina Legislative Action Committee (NC-LAC) Board. 

Mengert's recent awards include: Triad Business Journal's C-Suite "Most Admired CEOs" (2020); and the Community Association Institute's (CAI) "Educator of the Year (2021).

To view our AMG Community Leaders Material from this episode,

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    It's time for AMG's 2025 Community Leaders Series – Podcast Edition.

    For more than four decades, AMG has worked to make the role of community leaders more effective — and less of a headache.

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    Each seminar topic in this series responds directly to the requests of AMG's Executive Board members, helping associations across the Carolinas become stronger, safer, and better informed.

    And now, here's your host — the CEO of AMG Paul Mengert.

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    Hello, I'm Paul Mengert, CEO of Association Management Group.

    If you're a community leader — board member, committee chair, or even a passionate homeowner — you already know that volunteers are the backbone of every great community.

    But recruiting those volunteers? That can feel like climbing a hill... with a headwind.

    Today, I want to share some practical, proven strategies to help you build a strong volunteer base — not just for today, but for the long-term health of your association.

    Let's get into it.

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    First, start with your new neighbors.

    When someone moves in, it's a fresh start. They're excited, curious, and open to getting involved. This is your moment.

    One community we work with near Greensboro started "Welcome Walks" — short Saturday strolls where new residents met current volunteers. Within six months, they had new faces on multiple committees. That's the power of early engagement.

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    Second — and this is vital — protect the tone of your community.

    People don't volunteer where there's negativity or drama.

    Volunteers want to feel respected and supported. If your board meetings feel adversarial, or if your community Facebook page is hostile, that drives away the very people you're hoping to attract.

    One coastal board adopted a Code of Conduct and invested in board training. That one change brought back volunteers who had previously walked away.

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    Third, get specific and make it easy.

    Instead of saying "Join a committee," say "Help plan the July 4th Barbecue." Clear asks lead to clear commitments.

    And not everyone wants to commit long-term. Some people are happy to help plant flowers, coordinate vendors, or manage one project. Give them options.

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    Now — here's a pro tip that every experienced board member should know.

    Don't rush someone into a leadership role just because they seem eager.

    We've seen this go sideways. One board excitedly appointed a new resident... who turned out to be condescending and divisive. It took months to repair the damage.

    Instead, invite people to serve on a committee first. It's a chance to see how they collaborate and whether they align with the culture you're building.

    A strong committee system is your farm team for future board leaders — and a smart way to protect the community's tone and trust.

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    And finally — recognize your volunteers.

    Public thanks, a social media spotlight, even a handwritten note — it matters. People stay where they feel valued.

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    Recruiting volunteers isn't about begging — it's about building a culture where people want to contribute. Start small, keep things positive, and make it easy to get involved. Over time, you'll see your community grow not just in numbers, but in connection and shared ownership.

    For over 40 years, at AMG, we've helped community leaders like you create lasting engagement strategies through customized HOA & condo solutions, community engagement programs, and board empowerment tools.

    Thanks for watching — and thank you for the work you do to build stronger, more connected communities.

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    Thanks for listening to AMG's 2025 Community Leaders Series Podcast Edition. To find out more information on this episode, please visit HOACommunityleaders.com.

    This podcast is a production of Association Management Group.

    All rights reserved.

    • Strong communities are built by intentionally engaging and nurturing volunteers, starting with new residents and clear, welcoming opportunities.

    • A positive, respectful community culture is essential to attracting and retaining volunteers who want to contribute and lead.

    • Effective volunteer recruitment means making participation easy, starting people in committee roles, and recognizing their contributions to build long-term leadership.