How to Build a Culture of Community Involvement
One of the biggest issues in many small (and not so small) communities is that of getting volunteers for community organisations and events. Often it seems to be the same small group of people doing everything.
Below are a few suggestions to encourage more volunteers to come forward. None of this will result in stampedes of volunteers overnight, but if we think long term about building a community with a culture of active community involvement, they may help.
How do you encourage Volunteering in your community?
Below are a few suggestions to encourage more volunteers to come forward. None of this will result in stampedes of volunteers overnight, but if we think long term about building a community with a culture of active community involvement, they may help.
- Set up service awards presented by Council/Community Board/local government - monthly/annually/as appropriate
- Volunteer "jobs" board in the library and also in the Messenger
* Make sure that listings say skills required, that training is offered, what skills volunteers will gain etc etc - Volunteer "jobs" expo
- Partner with significant employers in the area to have staff community volunteering recognised in some way
- Partner with Government agencies/Social Services to have community service/volunteering encouraged
- Put a monthly volunteer interview/profile in local newsletters/newspapers (+ sponsored award?)
* Why do you volunteer?
* How did you get involved?
* What do you get out of it?
* What skills have you gained?
* What skills did you need?
* How much time does it take?
Interview as diverse range of people as possible - ie not the usual suspects. Eg The bowls club secretary, Lions club treasurer, a volunteer fire fighter, someone from the Marae Committee, a PTA member, the Rugby club Pres ..
How do you encourage Volunteering in your community?
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