As we wrap up another incredible year and gear up for the next, it is the perfect time to refocus on what makes our chapters thrive – the strength, dedication and heart of our volunteer committees.

At RMEF, our mission depends on energized, engaged and motivated teams. Whether preparing to host your next banquet or reflecting on a successful year of fundraising, now is the time to bring your volunteers together, celebrate achievements and set the stage for even greater impact in 2026.

Below are several things showing how chapter leaders across the country are building momentum and how you can, too.

Celebrate success: big and small

Recognition is one of the most powerful tools a leader can use. Celebrating individual and team accomplishments boosts morale, reinforces purpose and brings your committee closer together.

Tried-and-true ideas from the field:

  • Set and track goals – Whether table sales, new sponsors, donations or volunteer recruitment, make it visible. Add tracking goals to every committee meeting agenda.
  • Post-banquet BBQ or potluck – Celebrate your team’s success with a relaxed, fun gathering. Use a backyard or nearby park. Include games like cornhole or horseshoes and invite prospective volunteers to join.
  • Creative awards – At your wrap-up meeting, hand out playful recognition for things like “Top Raffle Sales,” “Best New Fundraising Idea” or “Most Auction Donations Secured.” Keep it lighthearted and meaningful.

Keep Communication Personal and Purposeful

A motivated committee starts with consistent, upbeat and intentional communication. Use every opportunity to highlight wins and reinforce momentum.

What works:

  • Include shoutouts in your meeting reminders. For example, “Great job Kevin, for recruiting five new volunteers!” or “Kudos to Mark for locking in a new $1,000 sponsor!”
  • Keep chapter goals visible and alive. Don’t just set them once. Revisit them in every meeting and email update.

Build Team Culture with Shared Experiences

Strong committees grow from real friendships and shared memories. The most successful chapters make time for fun and connection outside of formal meetings.

Examples from RMEF chapters:

  • Host a holiday party at a local restaurant or volunteer’s home.
  • Carpool to nearby RMEF banquets to cheer each other on and pick up new ideas.
  • Plan a camping weekend as a team bonding retreat.
  • Attend regional or national events like a rendezvous, volunteer workshops or a national volunteer rally.

These experiences deepen commitment and build a culture of camaraderie.

Stay Grounded in the mission

At the end of the day, our greatest source of energy is the mission itself. When volunteers see the impact of their efforts, their fire gets reignited.

Mission-based engagement opportunities

  • Project tours – If there is a RMEF-funded project nearby, schedule a chapter visit or attend a dedication ceremony. Let your team see their work in action.
  • Volunteer work projects – Help pull fences, restore wildlife habitat, clean trailheads or partner with land agencies on stewardship projects. These hands-on efforts connect volunteers directly to elk country.

Your Leadership Matters

By taking time to celebrate your team, build relationships and refocus on the mission, you are not just ending strong. Instead, you are setting the tone for the year ahead.

We hope these ideas help you tap into your chapter’s full potential. As always, your RMEF regional director is there to support you with tools, resources and guidance every step of the way.

(Photo credit: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation)