This article is part of the Summer 2026 edition of the Volunteer Newsletter, a quarterly update meant to equip, empower and encourage RMEF volunteers. More articles are available on our dedicated Volunteer Newsletter page.

A 2023 RMEF volunteer survey revealed that more than 58% of volunteers are over age 55, and many chapters struggle to engage younger volunteers. Yet several chapters are successfully bringing in new generations. Here are the tactics that work.

Create a Welcoming Environment
Before recruiting younger volunteers, take an honest look at how your chapter operates. Meetings should be structured, welcoming and efficient. Use an agenda, stay on topic and keep meetings to an hour or less. Choose a time and location that fit younger schedules, and ensure core volunteers are willing to share responsibilities.

Keep business within the meeting time and save socializing for after. Hold meetings in neutral, family‑friendly locations rather than private homes, which can feel intimidating to newcomers.

When someone expresses interest, avoid overwhelming that person. Let new volunteers ease in and attend a few meetings, take on a small banquet task and join the wrap‑up meeting to see their impact

Where to Find Them
Finding volunteers from younger generations often means meeting them at places and events they are attracted to and at times that work for them. Consider the following possibilities.

  • RMEF Work Projects: Habitat and hunting heritage projects attract people who want to make a difference. Use these events to explain how fundraising multiplies RMEF’s impact. Collect contact information and follow up.
  • Within Your Committee: Families and couples who volunteer together tend to stay engaged. Encourage committee members to invite spouses, grown children, nieces, nephews and younger relatives. Give kids meaningful tasks so they feel part of the mission.
  • Local Youth Groups: Sports teams and youth organizations are great sources of banquet-day help. Identify group leaders, explain your needs and invite interested teens to stay involved. Many long-term volunteers started this way.
  • Secondary Events: Younger audiences may prefer events beyond traditional banquets. Ladies’ nights, gun events and similar gatherings can draw new faces.
  • Membership Meetups: Host casual meetups at a brewery or bar and grill. A few raffles and a short mission update create an easy entry point for potential volunteers.

How to Retain Them
Keeping volunteers engaged is just as important as recruiting them. Take these steps to make sure they feel welcome and valued—and enjoy the experience

  • Match volunteers with tasks that fit their interests and strengths, and give them real ownership.
  • Show them how their work directly supports RMEF’s mission and conservation impact.
  • Encourage them to bring friends or family, as shared involvement increases commitment and enjoyment.
  • Start the year by having each person share their “why” to reinforce shared purpose.
  • Provide the tools, information and mentorship they need to succeed.
  • Pair new volunteers with seasoned mentors who can answer questions and explain RMEF terminology.

Recruiting and retaining younger volunteers may take some extra effort or different approaches, but keep an open mind. They are the future of RMEF, and some investment now can pay off for decades to come.