As you are aware, using volunteers in your organization is a good strategy.  They bring time, talent, and invaluable skills.  you may not realize the economic impact these volunteers bring to your state.  Typically, the value of volunteer time is based upon an average hourly earnings of all production and non-supervisory employees on private non-farm payrolls as determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Independent Sector Gallop Poll then takes this figure and increases it by 12% as an estimate of fringe benefits.  For example, the estimated dollar value of volunteer time for 2008 was $19.51 an hour.  Board members, advisory council members or other related members who are reimbursed for their expenses (travel or meal costs) actual or fixed reimbursements, can still qualify as a volunteer. However, IF this type of volunteer is NOT paid for their time and expenses, then the value of time contributed goes up significantly.  Their time is recommended at a value of $100 per hour.  Not bad!