by: Lisa Havrilla, ARM, CMCA, AMS | CAMCO Management, Inc. AAMC
EDITOR’S NOTE: The content of this article was developed in part or in whole with artificial intelligence. The author reviewed and edited the content for accuracy.
In today’s organizations, employees and community volunteers often go above and beyond their standard job descriptions, volunteering their time and energy to represent their company on committees, participate in charitable events, or assist their community associations on the board of directors or committees. These efforts, typically uncompensated, reflect a commitment to the organization’s values and a willingness to contribute to its success beyond the paycheck. Yet, how leaders respond to these contributions can make or break the spirit of volunteerism within a team. Expressing gratitude is essential—but it must come without a hint of negativity, criticism, or backhanded complaints. Here’s how leaders can cultivate an atmosphere of appreciation that honors these efforts authentically and constructively, fostering goodwill and engagement.
The Value of Volunteer Efforts
When volunteers step up to serve on a committee, welcome new team members, or champion an organizational initiative, they’re doing more than just extra work. They’re acting as ambassadors of the organization’s culture, building community, and often sacrificing personal time to do so. This unpaid dedication deserves recognition that’s thoughtful and sincere. Too often, however, leaders undermine these contributions with offhand remarks like, “Well, you volunteered for it,” or “I guess you’ll figure it out since you signed up.” Such responses, even if unintended, can feel dismissive, implying that the volunteer’s choice to help somehow absolves the leader of responsibility—or worse, paints their effort as a burden.
Why Attitude-Free Gratitude Matters
Gratitude with a side of negativity doesn’t just sting—it erodes trust. Volunteers who feel their extra efforts are met with complaints or lukewarm acknowledgment may think twice before volunteering again. This not only dampens morale but can also weaken the organization’s culture, reducing participation in the very activities that enhance its reputation and cohesion. Genuine appreciation, free of criticism, signals to volunteers that their contributions are seen, valued, and integral to the organization’s success. It’s a simple equation: positivity breeds enthusiasm, while negativity stifles it.
Practical Ways to Show Appreciation
So, how can leaders express gratitude effectively and avoid the pitfalls of attitude? Here are some actionable strategies:
1. Be Specific and Personal
Generic praise feels hollow. Instead of a vague “Thanks for helping out,” try, “I really appreciate how you took the lead on this—it made a huge difference in how we showed up for the community.” Acknowledging the specifics of their effort shows you’re paying attention and value their unique contribution.
2. Celebrate Publicly (When Appropriate)
Shine a spotlight on their work in a team meeting, newsletter, or casual shoutout—provided they’re comfortable with it. For example: “Shoutout to Jamie for making our volunteers feel so welcome last week; it’s people like you who make this special.” Public recognition amplifies the impact of your gratitude and inspires others.
3. Offer Support, Not Complaints
If a volunteer role comes with challenges—like juggling their regular workload and family—don’t frame it as their problem to solve. Instead of saying, “You’ll have to manage your time better,” offer, “Let me know how I can support you with this—it’s great to see you taking this on.” This reinforces that their effort is a team win, not a solo burden.
4. Small Gestures Go a Long Way
While they’re not in it for compensation, a token of thanks—like a coffee gift card, a handwritten note, or even a flexible afternoon off—can show you don’t take their time for granted. Pair it with a message like, “Your work on the committee has been awesome—enjoy this as a small thank-you.”
5. Check Your Tone
Words matter, but delivery matters more. Avoid sarcasm (“Oh, look at our hero!”) or passive-aggressive jabs (“Guess you’re the expert now!”). Keep it warm and straightforward: “I’m so grateful for what you’ve done here.” A positive tone ensures your message lands as intended.
Leading by Example
Leaders set the cultural tone. When you model gratitude without attitude, it trickles down. Employees and Association Volunteers take note, creating a ripple effect where appreciation becomes the norm, not the exception. Imagine an organization where volunteering for a committee isn’t met with eye-rolls or “better you than me” quips but with encouragement and thanks. That’s the kind of environment that retains talent, boosts morale, and strengthens an organization’s heartbeat.
The Bottom Line
Everyone who volunteers their time and skills is giving a gift to their organization—one that deserves to be unwrapped with enthusiasm, not skepticism. Leaders have a unique opportunity to turn these moments into catalysts for a stronger, more connected place. By expressing gratitude without a trace of negativity, you honor their efforts, fuel their motivation, and build a culture where going the extra mile feels worth it. So, the next time a volunteer steps up, skip the attitude and lean into the gratitude—they’ve earned it.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lisa Havrilla, ARM, CMCA, AMS brings over 35 years of experience in the property management industry. Her diverse background spans apartment management, association management, and corporate housing serving the film industry. Lisa holds professional certifications in both apartment and association management, demonstrating her dedication to excellence and industry expertise. Contact Lisa by email at: lhavrilla@camcomgmt.com.
