Definitely I think we should utilize our technology of today - Facebook is an EXCELLENT way to keep people informed and to say a special word of "thanks" to our valuable volunteers.
Not sure if your school has a facebook page or not, but in this evergrowing electronic age with all of the social networks out there this is one thing that we created. When we finish an event of any kind big or small I always put a THANK YOU out there on our web page making note of the specific names of people who volunteered their time so that everyone that has our page sees who those people are.
What about a handmade card? I know I have sent handmade card with a personal thank you and the recipients are always very thankful. You could even have the kids help make them. Just a thought it does take time but a little more personal then a store bought card.
What about gift cards for school activities, reserved parking for an event, gift cards for a manicure/pedicure or massage, lunch with the principal or a teacher.
I am looking for an easy way to thank our volunteers monthly. Mostly, they are ones' that volunteer for about every event/activity that we and the school have. Last year and years past, we had a monthly drawing with everyone's name in it and the winner won a $10.00 gift certificate/card to a local store.
We would like to do something different this year.