The Value of Volunteers

I was asked recently why we have volunteers.

The true success of a voluntary organisation is, I believe, when you can't tell who is a volunteer from a member of staff - indeed within CCH we talk of "unpaid staff" because this is how we see the role of volunteers, in the many ways in which they help, being of equal worth with the paid staff.

But this does not fully answer the question. Nor is it simply that volunteers "help out" an organisation, because while they inevitabilty do, this is not the full reason for supporting and encouraging volunteers.

Perhaps the answer lies with the fact that as a voluntary community organisation it keeps us close to the community and the needs and aspirations of the local community. Then again we talk with pride about our founding mission to "make all our resources work for the greater advantage of the disadvantaged". Is it about helping others in need of help?

I am proud of the work we have done as an organisation over the past few years, linking in with best practice in the sector to really highlight the contribution people make, and that they are recognised for this effort. Today we recieve thousands of hours of voluntary effort every year.

You know, perhaps having volunteers is as much about providing a platform for individuals to be volunteers - a way in which they can "give back" to their community.

Our role, no duty, is to ensure this is done with respect and value, in a safe place and time, where the Big Society meets the ground.