Join us for a captivating journey into the dynamic world of sports events and volunteerism with Olivier Chovin, the Event Workforce Specialist at UEFA. In this episode of the Engaged Volunteer Podcast, we peel back the curtain to reveal the meticulous planning and execution involved in orchestrating some of the world's most prestigious sporting spectacles, such as the UEFA Champions League. With Olivier's extensive experience and profound insights, listeners are treated to a behind-the-scenes exploration of the indispensable role volunteers play in the success of these monumental events. Oliv ..read more

That was Matt Lynch, Founder of MoonShot. Have you ever wondered why some live experiences capture our hearts better than others? Consider places like Disney Land, where a commitment to exceptional service excellence sees them described as the happiest place on earth. MoonShot works with organizations to engage and train frontline staff and volunteers to live and breathe brand ethos through programs that provide opportunities for upskilling and connections. While you might hear Disney and think - that’s all well and good if you have a huge budget - how does this apply to someone like me? In th ..read more

Meet Matt Doherty, City Volunteer Manager for Greater London Authority. Having worked alongside some of the world’s largest events including The European Championships, Commonwealth Games, The Australian Open and now the Euros, Matt is no stranger to engaging with volunteers in a large capacity. In this episode of the podcast we get an in-depth look at Greater London Authority’s legacy project from the 2012 Games - Team London - an incredible example of how cities can engage with their communities through a centralised, city wide volunteer program. After the success of the London Olympics and ..read more

Meet Andy Newman, Director of Workforce and Operations for Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022.   Working alongside some of the world’s biggest workforce programs including London 2012, Tough Mudder, The Houston Super Bowl and now, Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, Andy draws on his experience to discuss the true value of volunteering. While most organizations focus on the financial contribution volunteers provide, we discuss the more intangible value - experience.   In this episode of the podcast we take a closer look at how Tough Mudder built their hugely successful (and sust ..read more

Meet Anne-Catherine, Senior Volunteer Manager worldwide at FIFA. Having just implemented a global volunteer management program at one of the world's largest sporting federations, Anne Catherine (also known as AC) knows a thing or two about volunteers. In this episode of the podcast, AC takes us behind the scenes, with an in-depth look at FIFA’s global volunteer management program which is using technology to connect their global community of volunteers all via one centralized system. During this podcast we also discuss how a global volunteer management solution aids the business from an admini ..read more

For the first episode of this season, we’re thrilled to be joined by Jenny Betteridge, Strategic Lead for Volunteering at Sport England and Shruti Saujani, City Programme and Volunteer Manager at the England and Wales Cricket Board, otherwise known as ECB. With over 10 million people in the UK choosing to volunteer their time through sport and physical activity last year, this episode of the podcast sees us dive a little deeper into the physical, mental and social benefits of connected communities. We take a closer look at an inspiring volunteer-led project - Dream Big Desi Women which was cre ..read more

Meet Elena Laguna  - Head of Volunteering at Oxfam Great Britain. After a chance opportunity to lead a youth volunteering program in Nicaragua, Elena has firmly cemented a career in helping others, working with some of the UK’s leading charities to manage their volunteer programs. In this episode of the podcast, Elena discusses the importance of treating your volunteers as individuals (even at the highest level) and how understanding volunteer motivations ensures connection. We also take a look at the impacts of COVID-19 including the changing landscape of volunteers. With traditional vol ..read more

That was Jenne Myers - CEO and ‘Professional Do Gooder’ at Chicago Cares. After kick starting her career working for The City of Chicago and Mayor Daly, it was an opportunity to work with the Mayor’s wife Maggie that opened the doors to the ‘heart’ of Chicago and a new philanthropic career in public service. In this episode of the podcast, Jenne generously shares her journey from volunteer to CEO, providing an in-depth look at Chicago Cares’ unique volunteering program. With a mission to connect people of difference, Jenne discusses the transformative nature of volunteering and how the act of ..read more

That was Corina Sadler CVA - Volunteer Resources Supervisor at City of Plano. After experiencing the joys of volunteering as a teen herself, Corina Sadler has cemented a career enriching the lives of teenagers through the creation of the Teen Volunteer Program for the City of Plano. In this episode of the podcast we discuss the stigmas that exist when it comes to young volunteers and why they should be embraced as a force for change. We also discuss the important role that technology plays in engaging and retaining teen volunteers who are looking for new and meaningful ways to give back to the ..read more

Meet Tom Bowkett. A specialist freelancer in volunteer and workforce management. Recorded in amongst the thick of UK COVID lockdowns, 2020 has presented it’s fair share of challenges for a freelancer, who specializes in events. While many would dwell on a tough year, Tom shines with optimism about the future and how important events and volunteering will be in uniting communities. In this episode of the podcast, we learn more about the world of freelancing in events. From major sporting events to arts and cultural festivals, Tom has experienced the full remit of events and understands just how ..read more