CSNPEI Releases Roadmap to Volunteerism
New report highlights innovative strategies to strengthen volunteerism across Prince Edward Island
The Community Sector Network of PEI (CSNPEI) is proud to announce the release of Roadmap to Volunteerism, a new report capturing key insights, strategies, and recommendations to sustain and grow volunteer engagement across the province.
The report reflects the findings of the Volunteer Symposium hosted by CSNPEI on June 16, 2025, which brought together more than 130 participants, including nonprofit leaders, government representatives, active volunteers, and community members. The event combined panel discussions, lived experience storytelling, and collaborative workshops to explore the future of volunteerism in a rapidly changing environment.
“Volunteers are the backbone of community life on PEI,” said Alexia Riche, Executive Director of CSNPEI. “Yet, organizations are facing new challenges in recruitment and retention. This roadmap provides practical solutions, from flexible engagement models to better recognition and support systems, so that volunteerism can continue to thrive.”
Key Themes in the Roadmap:
-
Strengthening Volunteer Recruitment and Retention: Strategies that match skills and interests with meaningful opportunities, while addressing barriers such as transportation, childcare, and scheduling.
-
Building Inclusive and Flexible Systems: Practical steps to engage youth, seniors, and newcomers; foster diversity and belonging; and create multiple entry points for people with varying availability.
-
Supporting Volunteer Wellbeing: Recommendations on training, mental health, recognition, and organizational culture to reduce burnout and promote long-term involvement.
-
Sector-Wide and Policy Recommendations: Ideas for workplaces, the nonprofit sector, and government to advance volunteerism through shared services, education, tax credits, and fair funding.
This initiative, generously funded by the Government of Prince Edward Island, reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that volunteerism remains strong, resilient, and responsive to the needs of Island communities. The roadmap highlights both immediate, practical actions and long-term policy changes that can help create the conditions where volunteers and organizations can flourish together.