Jenny Cater, Volunteer Attraction and Engagement Manager at Bookmark Reading Charity, explained the importance of private communities on Guild in their tech stack. The Bookmark Reading Charity addresses the issue of one in four children struggling to read by offering one-to-one programs that enhance reading skills, enjoyment, and confidence. Trained literacy volunteers play a crucial role, and Bookmark’s communities support their development and peer support.

Jenny and Blaise Grimes-Viort discussed:

• Impact on Reading Skills: Encouraging reading through fun and choice improves children’s skills and confidence.
• Effective Technology: The right tools enhance volunteer-led programs.
• Volunteer Support: Ensuring volunteers feel supported and enjoy their roles.
• Platform Selection: Security, simplicity, and flexibility were essential in choosing a community platform.
• Sense of Community: Fostering connection among volunteers.
• Listening and Communication: Online communities as effective tools for these purposes.
• Volunteer Collaboration: Volunteers appreciate helping each other and fulfilling their roles.
• Onboarding and Signposting: Guiding volunteers in the community.
• Experimentation: Using trial and error to build a community.
• Informality and Belonging: Informal, conversational community styles enhance belonging and commitment.
• Marketing and Recruitment: Online communities aid in these areas.