In honor of International Volunteer Managers Day on Wednesday, November 5, our Social Media team sat down with Angela Williamson, Community Relations Volunteer Specialist at Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD), to learn more about her career journey and passion for volunteerism.
Background & Experience
Q: How long have you been with Blood Bank of Delmarva, and what first brought you here?
A: I started working at BBD seven years ago in September 2018. I wanted a new challenge, a place to energize, and to grow volunteer engagement. I’ve always been fascinated by science—I have a biology degree—but I quickly realized research wasn’t my calling. I’m a “people person” who loves helping others understand things in approachable ways, so the role of Community Relations Volunteer Specialist was the perfect fit.
Q: What inspired you to work in volunteer management?
A: My master’s degree research used the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to see if certain personality types were drawn to specific roles. I’ve always loved group dynamics and in-person interactions.,
Q: Can you share a bit about your career path before joining BBD?
A: My journey has been a mix of science, education, and people-centered work. After college, I worked with tissue culture on cashew trees but quickly realized I was more of a “little bit of this, little bit of that” type—replication wasn’t my strong suit! I pursued a master’s degree in Public Horticulture at the University of Delaware and Longwood Gardens.
From there, I worked as a Grounds Supervisor at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln before returning to Longwood Gardens to lead youth and adult education programs. I loved creating new initiatives.
Later, I joined the Hagley Museum & Library as Volunteer Manager., After 11 years, I was ready for another challenge, and that’s when I found Blood Bank of Delmarva. I saw the potential to grow volunteer engagement across the organization, and that’s exactly what we’ve done. Today, we have volunteers in every department, from daily helpers to annual event supporters.
Role & Responsibilities
Q: What does a typical day look like for you as a Community Relations Volunteer Specialist? A: No two days are alike, and I love that! I strategize how volunteers can be included in every aspect of BBD to help staff accomplish more and ensure donors have the best experience possible. My days include emails, calls, meetings, training, and supporting the 300+ volunteers who contribute each year.
Q: What types of volunteer opportunities are available at BBD? A: There’s something for everyone!
Front-facing roles: Greeters, Donor Care Support, and Café volunteers who interact directly with donors.
Community Ambassadors: Represent BBD at health fairs and community events.
Behind-the-scenes roles: Administrative help, thank-you note writers, phone callers, and lead volunteers who help coordinate and train others.
Q: How do volunteers support BBD’s mission and impact the community?
A: Volunteers are essential! They recruit donors, improve the donor experience, and support staff. For example, volunteers clean donation chairs between donors so staff can stay focused on the blood collection process. Donors consistently give our volunteers five-star ratings for their kindness and care.
Beyond our centers, volunteers serve as ambassadors, sharing their experiences and encouraging others to donate. Some even handwrite thank-you postcards to first-time and milestone donors. Their impact ripples through the community every day.
Personal Reflections
Q: What do you enjoy most about working with volunteers?
A: The relationships. I love getting to know our volunteers and seeing how their unique skills help us thrive—whether they’re shredding papers, organizing supplies, or helping create new systems. Every small task adds up to something big.
Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
A: Knowing that I’ve made BBD stronger by helping volunteers find purpose, supporting staff, and building connections that truly matter. Volunteers trust us with their time, and that’s such a gift.
Q: Is there a volunteer story that’s especially meaningful to you?
A: One of my favorites is a 92-year-old volunteer who comes in daily. She’s a role model for us all—living proof of the value of staying busy, connected, curious, and kind. Her wisdom and humor brighten everyone’s day.
Q: What might surprise people about BBD’s volunteers?
A: Our volunteers range from high school students to retirees in their 90s. They come from all walks of life—teachers, nurses, scientists, artists—and bring professional-level skills and passion. One even volunteers as a clown and our mascot, Delmar the Bloodhound!
Inspiration & Impact
Q: How do you keep volunteers engaged and motivated?
A: I always remind them of their impact. Whether they’re packing t-shirts for a high school drive or helping in the café, they’re helping save lives. Every role connects to our mission.
Q: How do you recognize volunteers for their contributions?
A: Appreciation is ongoing. Volunteers earn BBD gear as they reach lifetime hour milestones—shirts, polos, vests, and more. I send handwritten notes, birthday emails, and gift cards throughout the year.
Recognition also means making sure staff understand the importance of saying “thank you.”
Q: What advice would you give someone considering volunteering at BBD?
A: Visit our website to learn about opportunities and expectations. We’re looking for passionate, community-minded people ready to learn, grow, and share feedback. Every volunteer helps us improve.
Celebrating the Profession
Q: What does International Volunteer Managers Day mean to you personally?
A: It’s a day of recognition—not just for me, but for every volunteer manager who pours their heart into this work. It’s a reminder that what we do matters.
This profession requires so many skills—organization, empathy, leadership, communication, training, data management, recruitment, recognition—and often, we’re departments of one.
International Volunteer Managers Day shines a light on our field and celebrates how strategic, compassionate volunteer engagement helps nonprofits like BBD make a greater impact. I’m honored to represent all my colleagues who lead volunteers with heart and purpose every day.
Happy International Volunteer Managers Day! Thank you, Angela, for your passion, creativity, and dedication to our volunteers and community.