Why is volunteering important?

Question

Why is volunteering important?

Answer 1

it's an opportunity for everyone to become like Christ.. it's a big part of social development..

Answer 2

your giving back to the community that provides you with so much

Answer 3

Everyone needs help at some point

It's a great way to learn new things

It's a great way to meet new people

It improves our communities

It brings people closer to one another

It spreads happiness

Things get done that wouldn't otherwise

It builds confidence and self-esteem

It restores hope and faith

It builds trust

I could go on but I think this'll do for now.

Answer 4

For the organization, involving volunteers is important because:

-- it demonstrates community endorsement and investment in the organization and its work

-- it can create advocates for the organization who will write letters to the editor saying how great the organization is, will tell their friends, will address government bodies to advocate better support for the organization, etc.

-- it is a way to tap into the viewpoints of people who may feel more free to be critical than paid staff

-- it's a way to reach new demographics that may not be represented among staff or current clients served

-- in some cases, it's part of the organization's mission (for instance, if an organization is focused on helping youth develop job skills, then allowing them to volunteer helps them develop job skills)

I don't say it saves money, because I don't believe that should ever be the primary reason for involving volunteers -- that implies that volunteers replace paid staff.