(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.) --- The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) VolunteerAR team will host the Southwest Arkansas Nonprofit Forum for nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and civic groups in Miller County and the surrounding areas.                              

During the forum, the VolunteerAR team will lead conversations and give attendees resources on how to strengthen operations and build their networks, including:

•        How to use social media to promote your organization

•        Why it is important to let volunteers know they are appreciated

•        How to recruit and retain good volunteers

•        How to create volunteer opportunities that are exciting and engaging

•        Why “Word of Mouth” still works

•        Why your organization should network with other community groups

•        Ways to manage multiple responsibilities without getting overwhelmed       

The forum is scheduled for Thursday, March 19, from 9:30 - 11 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites on 5210 Crossroads Parkway, in Texarkana, Ark. The forum is free and no registration is required. Those attending are encouraged to bring note pads or other methods to take notes during the session. 

“Service groups play a big role in contributing in their respective communities and filling needs for their neighbors,” said VolunteerAR volunteer coordinator Ezell Breedlove. “As a certified volunteer manager, an AmeriCorps alum, and a retired police officer, I’ve seen how challenges have kept organizations and groups from meeting their goals. During this forum, we are going to talk about some of those common challenges, how to overcome them, and how groups can build resources and connections with one another. We’re looking forward to it, and we think those who participate will walk away with tangible tools they can use.”                The VolunteerAR mission is to foster a culture of service to strengthen communities and help Arkansans address issues specific to their areas. To find more information about VolunteerAR, visit www.VolunteerAR.org or send an email to [email protected]. You can also see the work of VolunteerAR by visiting its Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/volunteerar/