Is Change Always Good...?
By: Hira Sabzwari
Times are changing and so is society. Generation Y is unlike its predecessors and so the private and public sectors are experiencing a shift, and trying to adapt. Recent trends reveal that there is a growing shortage of long-term volunteers; with youth being especially underrepresented in this category. And so it goes without say that organizations have observed a sharp rise in short-term volunteering, especially in youth. Most youth aspire to achieve, accomplish, and triumph in all aspects of life. This can be especially difficult for young people as many are just starting their foray into independent lives. With limited experience, skills, and a small professional network many youth decide to volunteer for short durations with multiple organizations. This allows them to network, develop new skills, beef up a CV, and gain a competitive edge for the future.
So what is the difference between short- term and long-term volunteering?
Short-term volunteering is usually done for a couple of months, at a one-time event, or for a specific number of hours and is not necessarily tied into one organization. Alternatively, long-term volunteering, is more of an ongoing commitment lasting up to a few years.
Why does it matter if there is a shift from one to another? Shouldn't the rise in short-term volunteering make up for the decline in the long-term volunteering?
Although the above statement is logical, consider the viewpoint of the volunteer organization. These organizations rely heavily upon their volunteers and the support of their communities. With limited resources it is difficult to recruit, screen and train many volunteers for a short period of time. However, this is not to discount the value of short-term volunteers.
Some might argue long-term volunteers have a deeper level of dedication and vested interest. However, short-term volunteers should not be considered any less devoted or uninterested - it is not a “lazier” form of volunteering. Students especially are very dedicated to their causes and it fits better with the student schedule to have a volunteer who can commit themselves completely for a shorter period of time, than one who signs up for the long haul and then finds themselves unable to fulfill their original commitment.
Short-term opportunities or projects can also work well for long-term volunteers especially when life’s circumstances change. This offers an excellent alternative for continued contribution, when one can no longer uphold a long-term commitment. Short-term opportunities also offer those just starting out as volunteers, the chance to get their feet wet and determine a level of commitment that is manageable for them. A reduced time-commitment, may make volunteer seem less intimidating for some. This creates an excellent opportunity to attract new volunteers, and this initial participation may even lead some short-term volunteers to consider sticking with an organization over a longer period of time.
My preference between short and long-term volunteering is based on time and availability. As a student, short-term volunteer work has suited me well. It has provided me with the opportunity to remain involved, contribute, and incorporate volunteer service into my life as a manageable time commitment. When life has permitted me to do so, I have also enjoyed my time as a long-term volunteer. Long-term volunteering comes with so many wonderful experiences, and some favourites are:
- Making a positive impact that results in a feeling of accomplishment, happiness, and pride.
- Seeing a project through from start to finish
- Realizing long-term goals.
- Becoming comfortable, familiar, and knowledgeable about the organization, and its projects
- Building strong relationships and friendships.
Life changes very quickly for a young person. As a student I am about to foray into a world of career building and establishing myself, so I appreciate the opportunity to build a professional rapport with others that have a shared interest. This does not inhibit my dedication to the causes which I am passionate about, it seems to be an added bonus for most volunteers. When I consider my long-term goals, I cannot say with certainty what type of volunteering will suit my future life, but I can say is that I want to remain involved as a volunteer.
Another vantage point in this matter is the shortage of young people represented on Boards. There could be a few reasons for this, a lack of awareness about Boards in general, or the availability of Board positions for youth. Young people may not feel qualified for this type of specialized commitment and cannot with certainty take on a 1-2 year term. However, Board position may offer great practical experience for a student looking for professional volunteer experience. Furthermore, reducing the commitment time or introducing youth based committee groups may also increase youth representation at the senior level. Offering incentives such as mentorships will attract more young people and ensure that the next generation is ready to take on these roles.
How can the volunteer sector adjust to these changes? In my opinion, by doing what humans have done throughout time… adapting. Whether this is done by creating more short-term volunteer opportunities at various levels or by trying to appeal more to youth, it must be done to ensure a strong future for the volunteer sector. Introducing more online or virtual volunteer opportunities may also reignite interest amongst youth offering flexibility with availability and commitments. Promoting volunteerism through social networking or by partnering with educational institutes, volunteer organizations can reach a greater number of youth. Increasing incentives such as reference letters, mentorships, career building skills, networking events and so on will attract many volunteers. It is clear that things are no longer as they once were, and may no longer be considered ideal; however we must work with what we have and attract and retain volunteers. Lastly, another way to cope with the decline may be by appealing to different sections of the population such as new immigrants, older adults, and stay at home parents. Volunteering offers opportunities for skill building, socializing, and mastering of a different/new language, and thus may be very appealing to various other sectors of the population.
A strong volunteer sector is necessary for strong, healthy, and happy communities.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Why Did I Ever Take Recess and Nap Time for Granted?
Living in today’s fast-paced, results-based society, we are constantly pressured to do more in less time.
Today’s youth feel the effects of society’s expectations while some feel compelled to meet and even exceed them. In an attempt to keep up with “doing it all” , youth especially are forced to juggle a multitude of responsibilities including schooling/studying, part time work, volunteering/community involvement, extracurricular activities/sports, as well as make time for social engagements with friends and family. This all in an effort to stay “balanced”. (How ironic.) Therefore, it isn’t a surprise that many young people often find themselves burning out and taking a break.
When considering the multitude of responsibilities that young people face today, I ask the question: are we under too much pressure to “do it all”, especially when it comes to community involvement?
To say that youth are met with high expectations is an understatement. From junior high school through post-secondary we are continually inundated with the message that we must take on multiple responsibilities in order to be successful. Many of my peers believe this message and in fact, do succeed at “doing it all”. It takes skillful time-management and careful planning (and an endless supply of caffeine doesn`t hurt either.) Unfortunately, I have known others that took on too much, became overwhelmed, and eventually burnt out. Sadly, it’s quite common and I myself have fell victim to it as well.
Many of us have made the decision to take a break from life’s responsibilities in exchange for down time. This does not mean that we lack responsibility or dedication. Taking a break is an excellent opportunity to reassess one’s responsibilities to ensure that a sense of balance is kept. This balance may come at the cost of having to make the difficult decisions to limit community involvement, or other important activities. Learning to say “no” to new opportunities without feeling at fault is challenging. However it is a necessary skill in today’s world. However, with time and experience we learn more about our own capabilities, what we can manage, and how to balance our lives. Challenges like deciding to limit community involvement build character and strength, and shows us how buoyant the human spirit is.
By Hira Sabzwari
Living in today’s fast-paced, results-based society, we are constantly pressured to do more in less time.
Today’s youth feel the effects of society’s expectations while some feel compelled to meet and even exceed them. In an attempt to keep up with “doing it all” , youth especially are forced to juggle a multitude of responsibilities including schooling/studying, part time work, volunteering/community involvement, extracurricular activities/sports, as well as make time for social engagements with friends and family. This all in an effort to stay “balanced”. (How ironic.) Therefore, it isn’t a surprise that many young people often find themselves burning out and taking a break.
When considering the multitude of responsibilities that young people face today, I ask the question: are we under too much pressure to “do it all”, especially when it comes to community involvement?
To say that youth are met with high expectations is an understatement. From junior high school through post-secondary we are continually inundated with the message that we must take on multiple responsibilities in order to be successful. Many of my peers believe this message and in fact, do succeed at “doing it all”. It takes skillful time-management and careful planning (and an endless supply of caffeine doesn`t hurt either.) Unfortunately, I have known others that took on too much, became overwhelmed, and eventually burnt out. Sadly, it’s quite common and I myself have fell victim to it as well.
Many of us have made the decision to take a break from life’s responsibilities in exchange for down time. This does not mean that we lack responsibility or dedication. Taking a break is an excellent opportunity to reassess one’s responsibilities to ensure that a sense of balance is kept. This balance may come at the cost of having to make the difficult decisions to limit community involvement, or other important activities. Learning to say “no” to new opportunities without feeling at fault is challenging. However it is a necessary skill in today’s world. However, with time and experience we learn more about our own capabilities, what we can manage, and how to balance our lives. Challenges like deciding to limit community involvement build character and strength, and shows us how buoyant the human spirit is.
By Hira Sabzwari
Monday, November 23, 2009
Give a Day. Get a Disney Day-- Great idea?
Disney's soon to be launched "Give a Day. Get a Disney Day." program has been garnering a lot of public interest with its fun publicity campaign that is designed to attract the attention of the young, and the young at heart. For those of you who have not heard, starting January 1st, 2010 individuals can volunteer for one day at a participating organization and receive a free one-day admission to a Walt Disney or Disneyland theme park. The program has been launched to celebrate and inspire volunteerism and to recognize participating individuals for their contribution.
Immensely popular, Disney’s name carries a lot of power and is close to the hearts of many. It has the resources and the capability to influence public interest and gain attention. Disney's ability to reach the masses allows Give a Day to promote volunteer service and generate public interest towards volunteerism. It can potentially reach those individuals who have not previously been interested in volunteer service. Based on Disney's timing, I assume that this program is a response to President Obama's recent encouragement for community involvement. If so, these efforts come across as altruistic, noble, and beneficial for the volunteer sector.
This may very well be the case, however, I question Disney's motives and start to wonder who truly profits from this program?
Volunteering for one day to obtain a free pass is doable for many people. However, getting to a Disney theme park poses more of a challenge. This initiative does not cover travel, room & board, entertainment or spending money. Therefore, Give a Day works best for those volunteers who are able to afford this experience or, live close to a theme park. And what better way to stimulate the economy by giving people incentive to travel.
What about the impact on community organizations? Yes, it will bring publicity to the volunteer sector and increase community involvement. But only for one day and the industry currently struggles with volunteer retention. Participating organizations will gain the benefits of added people power, increased interest and visibility for their cause. But, will these organizations have the time and staff resources to train the influx of one-time volunteers? In addition, will those organizations who don’t participate see a decline in volunteer recruitment?
In effect, this program may take away from the true meaning of volunteering. It encourages individuals to look for volunteer positions where they stand to gain rewards instead of getting involved for the benefit of others, their communities, and for themselves.
I think everyone wants to reward volunteer effort. However, elaborate recognition for service is not always possible and not always desired by the volunteers. Organizations have limited resources and rely on these individuals to be successful. Disney's good intentions may renew interest in the volunteer sector, but by offering an extravagant reward, focus has been shifted away from the individuals and communities that need help. Furthermore, to offer such a reward for one day of volunteer service seems unfair to those individuals who volunteer on an ongoing basis.
Overall, it is difficult to predict if Give a Day will have positive or negative affects on long term volunteering. It may turn out to be a balance of both. Only time will tell.
Immensely popular, Disney’s name carries a lot of power and is close to the hearts of many. It has the resources and the capability to influence public interest and gain attention. Disney's ability to reach the masses allows Give a Day to promote volunteer service and generate public interest towards volunteerism. It can potentially reach those individuals who have not previously been interested in volunteer service. Based on Disney's timing, I assume that this program is a response to President Obama's recent encouragement for community involvement. If so, these efforts come across as altruistic, noble, and beneficial for the volunteer sector.
This may very well be the case, however, I question Disney's motives and start to wonder who truly profits from this program?
Volunteering for one day to obtain a free pass is doable for many people. However, getting to a Disney theme park poses more of a challenge. This initiative does not cover travel, room & board, entertainment or spending money. Therefore, Give a Day works best for those volunteers who are able to afford this experience or, live close to a theme park. And what better way to stimulate the economy by giving people incentive to travel.
What about the impact on community organizations? Yes, it will bring publicity to the volunteer sector and increase community involvement. But only for one day and the industry currently struggles with volunteer retention. Participating organizations will gain the benefits of added people power, increased interest and visibility for their cause. But, will these organizations have the time and staff resources to train the influx of one-time volunteers? In addition, will those organizations who don’t participate see a decline in volunteer recruitment?
In effect, this program may take away from the true meaning of volunteering. It encourages individuals to look for volunteer positions where they stand to gain rewards instead of getting involved for the benefit of others, their communities, and for themselves.
I think everyone wants to reward volunteer effort. However, elaborate recognition for service is not always possible and not always desired by the volunteers. Organizations have limited resources and rely on these individuals to be successful. Disney's good intentions may renew interest in the volunteer sector, but by offering an extravagant reward, focus has been shifted away from the individuals and communities that need help. Furthermore, to offer such a reward for one day of volunteer service seems unfair to those individuals who volunteer on an ongoing basis.
Overall, it is difficult to predict if Give a Day will have positive or negative affects on long term volunteering. It may turn out to be a balance of both. Only time will tell.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Introductions
Care.
Empathy.
Humanity.
Perseverance.
Understanding.
These are just a few of the words often associated with volunteerism. Manitobans understand the value of volunteering, regardless of what Mother Nature has in store for us. Floods, snow storms or tornados, our communities reflect our strong human capital and our commitment to helping in times of need, within our province, country and world.
I have lived in Manitoba all of my life and have watched family members and friends devote their time and energy to humanitarian causes. For example the devotion my best friend has towards volunteering with CancerCare Manitoba after recently having lost her mother. Another friend found determination as he helped construct affordable housing as a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. After 2005's devastating Kashmir earthquake, many friends and family members devoted time and effort to fundraising and organizing clothing drives to help the survivors. Many of their goals have often seemed beyond reach yet, with optimism and unrelenting energy, these volunteers have proven time and time again that the impossible is in fact possible, and that amazing things can be achieved. This is how I became inspired.
Volunteering has taken many forms throughout my life. I was a Reading Mentor with Frontier College, and a Homework Helper for a short time with the Marlene Street Organization. I accompanied my mother as she visited sick members of the community to offer emotional support, and finally, I began organizing community events. Most recently I put together several dinner receptions open to all students which were held at the University of Manitoba in conjunction with the MSA student group.
And now, I am here with you as Volunteer Manitoba’s new blogger. As a student of the University of Manitoba and a writer, this seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore and discuss important issues in the non-profit sector, promote volunteerism, and reach many people. So, here I am writing VM’s very first blog post.
A few little tid-bits about me: My coffee addiction can be classified as borderline dangerous, I enjoy the company of my cat, and I am a first generation Canadian with parents originally from Pakistan.
Our world today is affected in many ways and as a whole, it can all seem very overwhelming. However, even a small contribution can make a difference and have far reaching positive effects. As one popular African Proverb states, “If you think you're too small to make a difference, try sleeping in a room with a mosquito."
Hira Sabzwari
Empathy.
Humanity.
Perseverance.
Understanding.
These are just a few of the words often associated with volunteerism. Manitobans understand the value of volunteering, regardless of what Mother Nature has in store for us. Floods, snow storms or tornados, our communities reflect our strong human capital and our commitment to helping in times of need, within our province, country and world.
I have lived in Manitoba all of my life and have watched family members and friends devote their time and energy to humanitarian causes. For example the devotion my best friend has towards volunteering with CancerCare Manitoba after recently having lost her mother. Another friend found determination as he helped construct affordable housing as a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. After 2005's devastating Kashmir earthquake, many friends and family members devoted time and effort to fundraising and organizing clothing drives to help the survivors. Many of their goals have often seemed beyond reach yet, with optimism and unrelenting energy, these volunteers have proven time and time again that the impossible is in fact possible, and that amazing things can be achieved. This is how I became inspired.
Volunteering has taken many forms throughout my life. I was a Reading Mentor with Frontier College, and a Homework Helper for a short time with the Marlene Street Organization. I accompanied my mother as she visited sick members of the community to offer emotional support, and finally, I began organizing community events. Most recently I put together several dinner receptions open to all students which were held at the University of Manitoba in conjunction with the MSA student group.
And now, I am here with you as Volunteer Manitoba’s new blogger. As a student of the University of Manitoba and a writer, this seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore and discuss important issues in the non-profit sector, promote volunteerism, and reach many people. So, here I am writing VM’s very first blog post.
A few little tid-bits about me: My coffee addiction can be classified as borderline dangerous, I enjoy the company of my cat, and I am a first generation Canadian with parents originally from Pakistan.
Our world today is affected in many ways and as a whole, it can all seem very overwhelming. However, even a small contribution can make a difference and have far reaching positive effects. As one popular African Proverb states, “If you think you're too small to make a difference, try sleeping in a room with a mosquito."
Hira Sabzwari
Thursday, October 15, 2009
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