In this interview, we’ve had the pleasure of sitting down with Faiza Venzant, CVA, Executive Director of the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration (CCVA), to delve deeply into her extensive experience and insights on professional development in volunteer engagement.
Faiza Venzant, CVA: Certainly! My journey into volunteer engagement began unexpectedly during my university years. Originally studying social work, I discovered my passion lay in coordinating volunteers during my summer breaks. This experience ignited my interest in harnessing the power of community involvement for social good.
Over the past 25 years, I've had the privilege of managing various volunteer programs, from corporate initiatives to community-based projects, each enriching my understanding of effective volunteer engagement strategies.
Faiza Venzant,CVA: What inspired me most was witnessing firsthand the transformative impact volunteering can have within organizations and communities.
From mobilizing resources for local charities to spearheading advocacy campaigns, volunteers play a pivotal role in driving positive change.
I saw an opportunity to bridge my passion for social impact with the structured discipline of volunteer management, which ultimately led me to pursue a career bringing volunteers and community together.
Faiza Venzant, CVA: Absolutely. As the Executive Director of CCVA, I'm privileged to lead an organization committed to advancing the profession of volunteer administration. CCVA administers the Certified Volunteer Administrator (CVA) credential, a globally recognized certification that validates the competency of volunteer administrators across seven key areas.
These competencies include strategic planning, ethical standards, volunteer recruitment and onboarding, data management, and more.
The CVA credential not only enhances professional credibility but also equips administrators with essential skills to effectively lead volunteer programs.
Faiza Venzant, CVA: CVAs possess a diverse skill set tailored to meet the multifaceted demands of volunteer administration.
They excel in strategic volunteer engagement planning, advocating for volunteer involvement, and cultivating meaningful relationships with volunteers and stakeholders alike.
Moreover, CVAs are adept at documenting volunteer impact, managing data to optimize program outcomes, and upholding ethical standards in volunteer management.
These competencies collectively empower CVAs to navigate challenges, foster innovation, and drive sustainable growth within their organizations.
Faiza Venzant, CVA: Recent global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have underscored the resilience and adaptability of volunteer engagement practices.
Organizations have increasingly relied on volunteers to support critical initiatives, from healthcare assistance to community outreach programs.
This shift has accelerated the integration of technology in volunteer management, facilitating remote volunteering opportunities and enhancing communication between volunteers and organizations.
Furthermore, there's a growing emphasis on inclusivity and diversity within volunteer engagement, ensuring equitable access and participation across all community sectors.
Faiza Venzant, CVA: My advice would be to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and professional development.
Seek opportunities to expand your knowledge, whether through attending industry conferences, pursuing advanced certifications like the CVA, or participating in communities and spaces dedicated to volunteer management.
Building a robust professional network can also provide invaluable support, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities.
By staying informed about emerging trends and practices in volunteer engagement, professionals can enhance their leadership capabilities and drive meaningful impact within their respective organizations.
Faiza Venzant, CVA: I'd like to emphasize the potential of volunteer engagement in fostering social change and improved community health.
As professionals in this field, we have a unique opportunity to leverage our skills and passion to create inclusive, sustainable volunteer programs that positively impact lives.
By prioritizing ethical standards, embracing innovation, and nurturing collaborative partnerships, we can collectively engage volunteers to make a meaningful difference in our communities. Together, we can build a future where volunteerism thrives as a catalyst for positive social impact.