Leading a Stellar Project Kick-Off

Team Leaders are often ready to get right to work, but taking a few minutes at the beginning of each project to welcome and provide context for volunteers can turn a good project into a GREAT one.  

A typical project kick-off should take about 5-10 minutes. At the end of the kick-off, volunteers should have a better understanding of the work they’re doing and why it matters. Use the tips below to craft your own project kick-off: 
 

• Introduce yourself to the group, and ask volunteers to introduce themselves as well. Share how you started with New York Cares and a bit about what your service and team leading has meant to you. 
   
• Ask if there are any new volunteers in the group. Make a mental note and try to pair “newbies” with seasoned volunteers if possible. 
   
• Provide a brief overview of New York Cares. Share our mission and key stats. You can find up-to-date information about New York Cares on our website.
   
• Introduce the agency and provide background. Give a brief history of the Community Partner and their impact in the community. If agency staff are present, they may be able to help provide info for this part – or share this with the volunteers themselves! 
   
• Reiterate the goals of the project. Explain how the project will make a difference to the Community Partner and the clients they serve.  
   
• Review the project “run of show.” Give volunteers a general schedule for the day, run through the tasks the team will carry out, and assign volunteer roles as you are able. If tasks involve multiple steps, provide hands-on demonstrations where you can. 
   
• Answer any questions volunteers may have. 
   
• Don’t forget about logistics! Make sure volunteers know where they can find important things like restrooms, water stations, emergency exits, and/or relevant agency staff.