In this episode of The Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson shares Part 1 of her 2026 trends and predictions for the future of volunteerism. This is the first half of a two-part series exploring 8 major shifts shaping how communities show up, how volunteer-driven organizations build trust, and what leaders of volunteers must pay attention to in the year ahead.

Tobi dives into the first three big trends: accountability, mutual aid, and new psychological insights into belonging and community.

Full show notes: 198. The Future of Volunteerism - Trends & Predictions Part 1

Future of Volunteerism - Episode Highlights

• [00:59] - Trends and Predictions for 2026
• [06:12] - Trend #1: Public Call for Accountability
• [16:22] - Trend #2: Resurgence of Mutual Aid Volunteerism
• [23:27] - Trend #3: Psychological Advances in Community and Belonging

Helpful Links

• Volunteer Management Progress Report
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab
• Volunteer Nation Episode #183 - The New Reality - Volunteers Don't Need You
• Faith Popcorn Brain Reserve
• Book - Volunteer ENGAGEMENT 2.0: Ideas and insights changing the world
• Volunteer Nation Episode #101: Tap the Power of Psychological Contracts with Pam Kappelides

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at WeCare@VolPro.net.