I'm volunteering at a foster home and all the staff.....?

Question

seem to have really bad attitudes and are constantly mean (mostly the woman, the men seem kinder). They do not mistreat the kids in any way, but they always have scowls on their faces and never seem to offer any kind words to the kids, just dissapline.

Today I decided to treat the kids so I bought a bunch of water balloons for a toss game and a bag of blow pops. The staff blew me off and would not allow the kids to have either. I do not want to undermine their athourity so I had to tell the kids that today was not a good day to play that game and maybe later.

I'm so frustrated and am not sure what to do. I'm just a volunteer and I think the staff resents me because the only time I saw a smile on their face is when I said I was heading home for the day.

Answer 1

That's tough.  I've heard it said that "some people hate their life and it shows," which I think applies to your co-workers.  It is always hard to bring about change.  People resent it for some reason.  It can feel like butting your head against the wall, but please don't give up on them.  You need to find a way to make them laugh-especially at themselves.  This will get their guard down and hopefully you can re-introduce some more fun ideas then.  

I, too, think outside the box and suffer the stoggie ginches of this world!  :)

PS:  It's double maddening that people who resent their situation are the least likely to try to do something different.  It's like they want to stick with what they KNOW doesn't work.  DUH!

Answer 2

You've just encountered the reality of humanity's biggest curse- Bureaucracy.  

It (bureaucracy) breeds indifference in folks.  Once they've achieved something, they feel no need to attend to what they've got.

Answer 3

I would first like to commend you on volunteering your time with these children - that is a great thing!

I have personally been in a similar situation where the paid employee's act as if they don't really like their job and take it out on those who enjoy what they do for free.  I think the thing to remember is that you are there for the children - have fun, don't worry about what the staff thinks as long as you are not undermining them with the kids.  Enjoy your summer.