Where Are the Volunteers?

In my work and experience with non-profit organizations across Kansas, I often hear statements like “The same people step up to fill key volunteer roles” or “It is difficult to find volunteers to fill the roles of board and committee members.” These statements come from both rural communities and heavily populated areas.

According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, Kansas ranked 7th overall among the 50 states for residents who volunteer, with a total of 36.4%. The national percentage is 28.3%, according to the US Census and AmeriCorps. People volunteer in various areas: Religious 35.0%, Education 23.9%, Social Service 17.1%, Health 8.8%, Civic 6.0%, Sport/Art 3.1%, and others 6.2%. Kansas has a reported 707,000 volunteers contributing 53.1 million hours of service, which is valued at nearly $1.4 billion. This is impressive, and I am proud that Kansas is one of the leading states in volunteerism according to this data.

So, what aren’t we seeing? What is changing in how volunteers behave? Perhaps non-profit and civic organizations need to view volunteers differently. I’ve been a community volunteer for over 30 years, as well as a director of three non-profit organizations, and I haven’t seen much change in how we work with volunteers. In this society with instant access to information, people (myself included) want most things quickly. Does this include volunteering? From my experience, it’s relatively easy to find volunteers for short-term tasks like registering attendees at an event or acting as host/hostess for an evening. However, it’s much harder to find someone willing to commit to long-term roles like event planning or regular committee and board meetings, let alone taking on a leadership role within those organizations.

Whether staffed or not, non-profits and civic organizations must conduct business to meet federal standards. This includes maintaining a governance structure through formal meetings. Where do these board members come from? Non-profits and civic groups have revenue demands that often involve fundraising events. Volunteers are essential in supporting such events, regardless of organization size. But where are these volunteers? What could on-site and remote volunteer support look like? This raises the question: “What role could technology play in the way we think about volunteerism in Kansas?”

These are some of the questions I keep asking community members and organizations. So, how do we engage people in our efforts and create mutual benefits for both volunteers and organizations? One key is to match people with their passions. Another is to challenge people to get involved in something new. Step into your community and try something you wouldn’t normally do—you might discover your passion.

It all sounds straightforward, right? Well, there are hurdles to volunteering. The most common reason people give for not volunteering is “I don’t have time.” Others say, “I wouldn’t know what to do or who to ask,” or “If I volunteer, they will just want my money.” Often, these perceived barriers aren’t there. Schedules can often be adjusted, and organizations will train you for the tasks or roles needed. Many times, your time and skills are worth more than money.

If you and others can overcome these barriers and consider the benefits of volunteering, you’ll find they far outweigh any excuses. Volunteering connects you with others, builds friendships and professional networks, and enhances your social and relationship skills. It’s good for your mind and body—boosting self-confidence, fighting depression, and helping you stay physically healthy. Volunteering can also advance your career by providing experience and teaching valuable job skills. Plus, it brings fun into your life by exposing you to new and interesting opportunities.

Explore your community to discover volunteer opportunities. Find what you’re passionate about and dedicate some time to volunteering. You won’t regret it.