The Dallas Association of Directors of Volunteers was established in 1994 by a group of volunteer leaders with a vision. The group formed to “enhance their professionalism and knowledge of the industry, learn more creative ways to use volunteers and give all leaders of volunteers an opportunity to share experiences, ideas and skills.”
DADV continues to serve volunteer management professionals in North Texas. During the Tenth Anniversary Celebration, Dallas Mayor Laura Miller commended the DADV members for their service to the Dallas community noting that “Volunteer Directors are focused on raising future leaders by developing and structuring programs that enable community citizens to contribute their time and resources to the betterment of everyone.”
The DADV Board believes that to further the volunteer management profession, four areas of focus must be addressed.
​Training is provided to the membership through several avenues such as sponsorship of the Volunteer Management Conference and a Half Day Workshop. The membership is also offered training opportunities at monthly meetings with industry leaders, networking opportunities, information on area volunteer programs through the website and topic-based facilitated discussions.  Training is also available via our Alive membership, webinars and round table series via www.volunteeralive.org.
​As information relevant to the development and management of volunteer programs is made available, this information is provided to the membership through email notices and the website.
DADV seeks to validate professional standards through offering members opportunities to work toward certification in volunteer management. These study sessions are held yearly. Members of DADV’s board also contributed to the development of the Quality Assurance Standards for Volunteer Programs in Texas.
DADV surveys the board and membership annually to determine the professional needs of its members. The membership’s input drives the development of DADV’s programs and activities.