Top 11 Volunteer Manager Certifications

Certifications for a volunteer manager are important in today's job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge, expertise, and commitment to the profession. They show potential employers that the individual has taken the initiative to gain additional skills and training in order to better serve their organization. Certifications also provide an assurance of quality and reliability, demonstrating to employers that the individual has been trained in best practices and can be trusted to lead their team effectively. Finally, certifications can also provide access to exclusive job opportunities or higher salaries than those without certifications.

This article reviews the top certifications for Volunteer Managers and explains how they can help enhance a volunteer manager's career.

What are Volunteer Manager Certifications?

Volunteer manager certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have completed specialized training in the management of volunteers. This certification is designed to help volunteer managers demonstrate their knowledge and commitment to the profession, as well as their ability to effectively manage volunteers. With this credential, volunteer managers are better equipped to lead successful volunteer programs, create meaningful experiences for volunteers, and increase their organization’s impact in the community.

Certified volunteer managers possess a comprehensive understanding of best practices in volunteer management and can apply them to any organization or situation. They understand the importance of recruiting, orienting, and appreciating volunteers; they also know how to develop effective roles and responsibilities for volunteers, manage projects and assignments, and evaluate success. Having this certification also demonstrates a commitment to staying current with new trends in volunteerism. Certified volunteer managers are better able to connect with potential volunteers by showing that they have taken the time to learn about best practices in volunteer management. Additionally, having a certified volunteer manager on staff can help organizations attract funding from grantmakers who want assurance that their funds are being used wisely.

Pro Tip: If you are a volunteer manager considering certification, research the various certifications available and make sure to read any associated preparation materials in advance. This will help ensure that you are adequately prepared for the exam and increase your chances of success.

Related: What does a Volunteer Manager do?

Top 11 Volunteer Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Volunteer Managers today.

1. Certified Volunteer Administrator (CVA)

Certified Volunteer Administrator (CVA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skill in volunteer management. This certification is offered through the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration (CCVA).

The CVA certification requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge and skills in the following areas: volunteer recruitment, screening and placement; volunteer motivation, recognition, and retention; program design, implementation, and evaluation; risk management; diversity and inclusion; technology; leadership development; resource development; financial management of volunteers; legal issues related to volunteers.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the CVA certification process. The first step is to submit an application to CCVA. Once your application is approved, you will be required to take an online assessment that covers the topics listed above. After passing the assessment, you will need to submit documentation of your experience working with volunteers as well as references from other professionals who can attest to your knowledge and skills in volunteer management. Finally, you must pay a fee for the certification process which varies depending on where you live.

The cost of obtaining the CVA certification ranges from $200-$400 USD depending on where you live.

2. Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP)

Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) is a credential that demonstrates knowledge and expertise in the nonprofit sector. It is awarded by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, an organization that provides professional development and certification for nonprofit professionals.

The CNP program consists of three components: online coursework, an assessment exam, and a portfolio review. The online coursework includes topics such as fundraising, financial management, board governance, and strategic planning.

The assessment exam tests knowledge of the core competencies required to be a successful nonprofit professional. The portfolio review evaluates experience in the field through case studies and other examples of work.

It typically takes about six months to complete all three components of the CNP program.

To get certified as a CNP, you must first apply to take the program through the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance website. Once accepted into the program, you will need to complete all three components within six months in order to receive your certification.

The cost for the CNP program varies depending on your membership status with the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. For non-members, it costs $495; for members, it costs $395; and for students or recent graduates of Alliance-affiliated universities or colleges, it costs $295.

3. Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE)

Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) is a professional certification for fundraising professionals. It is the only global certification program for fundraising professionals, and it is recognized and respected worldwide. The CFRE credential demonstrates a mastery of the knowledge and skills required to successfully manage a comprehensive fundraising program.

To become certified, individuals must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, pass an exam administered by CFRE International, and agree to uphold the CFRE Standards of Professional Practice. The exam covers topics such as donor relations, management of volunteers, planned giving, public relations/marketing, research/prospect identification, resource development planning, solicitation strategies and techniques, stewardship/recognition programs and technology in fundraising.

It typically takes about one year to complete all the requirements for certification. To get started on the path to becoming a CFRE you will need to:

1. Submit an application with supporting documentation that verifies your education level and professional experience

2. Pass the CFRE Exam

3. Agree to uphold the CFRE Standards of Professional Practice

4. Re-certify every three years

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on where you live and whether or not you are a member of CFRE International. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD for non-members and $300 USD for members to take the exam plus any additional fees associated with submitting an application or renewing your certification every three years.

4. Certified Volunteer Management Professional (CVMP)

Certified Volunteer Management Professional (CVMP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in volunteer management. It is offered through the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration (CCVA). The CCVA is an international organization that promotes standards of excellence and professional development in the field of volunteer administration.

The CVMP certification process consists of three components: an online application, a written exam, and a practical assessment. The online application requires applicants to provide information about their education, experience, and professional accomplishments. The written exam tests knowledge of volunteer management topics including recruitment, supervision, motivation, evaluation, and risk management. Finally, the practical assessment evaluates the applicant's ability to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

It typically takes four to six months to complete the entire CVMP certification process. During this time applicants must submit their application materials and take both the written exam and practical assessment.

The cost of obtaining CVMP certification varies depending on whether you are an individual or group applicant. For individuals, the total cost ranges from $500-$800 USD depending on your location; for groups it ranges from $1,200-$2,400 USD depending on location.

5. Certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA)

Certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA) is a professional certification program for those who manage volunteers and volunteer programs. It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of volunteer administrators. The CVA credential is awarded by the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration (CCVA), which is an independent organization dedicated to promoting excellence in volunteer management.

To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience managing volunteers or volunteer programs, and they must demonstrate mastery of the core competencies of volunteer administration. These include knowledge of volunteer recruitment and retention strategies, program design and implementation principles, risk management practices, and evaluation techniques. Applicants must also pass a written exam that assesses their knowledge of these topics.

The process typically takes between six months to one year to complete, depending on the applicant’s level of experience and study time. To get started on the path to becoming certified, applicants must first submit an application form along with their resume and proof of work experience to CCVA. After submitting their application materials, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the written exam. Once they have passed the exam, they can then apply for certification status from CCVA.

The cost for becoming certified varies depending on whether or not you are a member of CCVA. For non-members, there is a $350 fee for registering for the exam plus additional fees associated with applying for certification status ($100). For members of CCVA, there is a discounted rate ($250) for registering for the exam plus additional fees associated with applying for certification status ($50).

6. American Red Cross Volunteer Management Certification

The American Red Cross Volunteer Management Certification is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals who are responsible for the management of volunteers. It is intended to provide recognition of an individual's professional development in the field of volunteer management.

The certification program consists of three levels: Certified Volunteer Manager (CVM), Advanced Certified Volunteer Manager (ACVM) and Master Certified Volunteer Manager (MCVM). To obtain any of these certifications, applicants must complete a series of online courses, as well as pass an examination.

The online courses take approximately 20 hours to complete and cost $250 per level. The examination fee is $100 for each level. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their certification within 30 days.

In addition to the online courses and examination, applicants must also have at least two years of experience working with volunteers in order to be eligible for any level of certification.

7. National Council for Voluntary Organizations Certificate in Volunteer Management

The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) Certificate in Volunteer Management is a professional qualification designed to help those working with volunteers to develop their knowledge and skills. It is a Level 3 qualification, which is equivalent to an A-level.

The course takes approximately six months to complete and consists of four modules: Introduction to Volunteering, Recruiting Volunteers, Managing Volunteers and Evaluating Volunteering. Each module includes self-study materials, online activities and assessments. The course also includes two days of face-to-face training in a classroom environment.

To get the NCVO Certificate in Volunteer Management you must be over 18 years old and have access to an appropriate volunteering role or project. You can apply directly through the NCVO website or through an approved provider such as a college or university.

The cost of the NCVO Certificate in Volunteer Management varies depending on the provider you choose but typically ranges from £450 - £550.

8. International Association for Volunteer Effort Certificate in Volunteer Administration

The International Association for Volunteer Effort (IAVE) Certificate in Volunteer Administration is an internationally recognized certification program that recognizes the professional capabilities of people who work with volunteers. It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to effectively manage volunteer programs.

The IAVE Certificate in Volunteer Administration consists of a self-assessment tool, an online course, and a final assessment. The self-assessment tool helps you identify areas of strength and development within your volunteer management practice. The online course provides detailed information on current best practices in volunteer management. The final assessment tests your understanding of the topics covered in the online course.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete all three components of the IAVE Certificate in Volunteer Administration. This includes completing the self-assessment tool, taking the online course, and passing the final assessment.

To get started on your IAVE Certificate in Volunteer Administration you can register for the program through their website. The cost of registration is $250 USD which covers all three components of the program (self-assessment tool, online course, and final assessment).

9. Points of Light Institute Certificate in Volunteer Management

The Points of Light Institute Certificate in Volunteer Management is an online, self-paced program designed to help professionals understand the fundamentals of volunteer management. It provides learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively recruit, manage, and retain volunteers. The certificate program consists of six modules that cover topics such as volunteer recruitment, motivation and engagement, risk management, and evaluation.

The program takes approximately eight weeks to complete. Each module includes readings, videos, case studies, quizzes, and other activities designed to help learners gain a comprehensive understanding of volunteer management principles. Learners must pass all six modules in order to receive their certificate.

The cost for the Points of Light Institute Certificate in Volunteer Management is $495 USD. This fee covers access to all six modules as well as a digital copy of the certificate upon completion.

In order to get started with the program, learners must create an account on the Points of Light Institute website and purchase the course. Once enrolled in the program, learners can begin working through each module at their own pace.

10. National Network for Youth Certification in Youth Development and Volunteerism

The National Network for Youth Certification in Youth Development and Volunteerism (NNYC) is a nationally recognized certification program that provides professional development opportunities to youth workers and volunteers. This certification program is designed to help individuals working with youth develop the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to effectively engage young people in positive activities.

The NNYC certification process takes approximately three months to complete. The first step is to complete an online application form, which includes providing information about your education, experience, and qualifications. Once the application has been submitted, you will be asked to take part in an assessment process that includes an interview and a written exam. After passing the assessment process, you will receive your official NNYC certificate of completion.

The cost of obtaining the NNYC certification varies depending on the type of program you are enrolled in. Most programs charge a one-time fee of around $100-$200 for enrollment and additional fees may apply depending on the number of courses taken or other requirements.

In order to maintain your certification status, you must participate in ongoing professional development activities such as attending workshops or seminars related to youth development and volunteerism. You will also need to renew your certification every two years by completing a renewal form and paying any applicable fees.

11. United Way Worldwide Certificate in Community Impact and Leadership

The United Way Worldwide Certificate in Community Impact and Leadership is a professional development program designed to help individuals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to lead successful community impact initiatives. The program consists of four core courses that provide participants with an understanding of the principles of community engagement, effective project management, and strategic planning. Participants will also develop skills in communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.

The program takes approximately six months to complete and requires participants to attend online classes as well as participate in group activities. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate from United Way Worldwide recognizing their achievement.

In order to get the certificate, applicants must first complete all four core courses: Introduction to Community Engagement; Project Management; Strategic Planning; and Collaboration & Problem Solving. Once all four courses have been completed, applicants must submit a final project which demonstrates their mastery of the material covered in the coursework.

The cost for the United Way Worldwide Certificate in Community Impact and Leadership varies depending on the country where you are located. In most cases, it costs between $400-$600 USD for all four courses.

Do You Really Need a Volunteer Manager Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a volunteer manager certificate to be an effective volunteer manager. However, that does not mean that having one won’t help. A certificate in volunteer management can provide valuable knowledge and insight into the needs of volunteers and how to effectively manage them. It can also give you an edge when competing for positions within the field of volunteer management.

Having a volunteer manager certificate demonstrates to potential employers that you have taken the initiative to learn more about how to manage volunteers, as well as gain additional skills and knowledge related to the field. This can be especially important if you are looking for a position with a large organization or nonprofit that requires volunteers. Having a certificate will show them that you have invested your time and energy into learning about how best to manage their volunteers, which is something they may value highly.

In addition, having a volunteer manager certificate can be beneficial in other ways. It can give you access to resources such as conferences, webinars, and other forms of training that may not be available without it. It can also serve as proof of completion for certain jobs or tasks related to managing volunteers. Finally, it might also open doors for networking opportunities with other professionals in the field who could help you advance your career even further.

Overall, while having a volunteer manager certificate is not essential in order to be an effective volunteer manager, it certainly has its benefits and could prove useful in many ways.

Related: Volunteer Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Volunteer Manager Certifications

1. What is a Volunteer Manager Certification?

Answer: A Volunteer Manager Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to manage and lead volunteers in an effective and efficient manner.

2. Who can get a Volunteer Manager Certification?

Answer: Anyone with experience in volunteer management, or those who have taken courses related to volunteer management, may be eligible for certification.

3. How long does it take to get a Volunteer Manager Certification?

Answer: The time needed to complete the certification process depends on individual experience and training, but typically ranges from six months to two years.

4. What are the benefits of getting a Volunteer Manager Certification?

Answer: Benefits of obtaining a Volunteer Manager Certification include gaining recognition as an expert in the field, increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and greater credibility with employers and other professionals.

5. Are there any prerequisites for getting certified as a Volunteer Manager?

Answer: Generally, applicants must have at least three years of volunteer management experience or relevant education/training in order to qualify for certification. Additionally, some certifying organizations may require applicants to pass an exam or demonstrate competence in specific areas before being awarded certification.