by Angela Sanford
I often hear the complaint that no one wants to volunteer or that it’s always the same people stepping up. I’ll admit—I’ve said those words myself in relation to past experiences. The challenge is real, and it’s likely a global issue. But the question remains: why is this happening?
Increasingly, volunteering requires an application process. It sounds strange, doesn’t it? Once upon a time, you could simply offer your service, and the group or organization would be grateful for whatever you could give. And while they are certainly appreciative, they also need to be cautious. Despite my frustration with volunteer application processes, I understand their necessity.
This week, I completed my fourth volunteer application. My first experience was a few years ago for a national organization. The process was grueling—it took a month to complete each stage. Unfortunately, the contact person I worked with wasn’t particularly amicable. Having been part of the program for over a decade in my youth, I took a 20-year hiatus and later another five-year break. Despite believing in the program’s merits, the experience discouraged me from reapplying to be a leader with them. I can see why their volunteer numbers aren’t what they used to be. However, I also understand the importance of vetting individuals who will work closely with youth.
My second application was for a government agency board. I expected the process to be tedious, but it was surprisingly straightforward. There was an interview and reference check, but the turnaround was quick and efficient.
The third application was for a national board I currently sit on. It’s a representative board with designated appointments across Canada. I was fortunate to be nominated and elected, and I now serve as Vice President and I’m hoping to be re-elected for a second term this fall.
Most recently, I applied for a local board. The application process was intriguing, with some unusual questions. I’m now awaiting an interview with their volunteer coordinator and the reference checks, hoping to be offered a seat at their table. I believe my experience could be an asset to their team, but this one is a waiting game, and only time will tell.
However, the application process isn’t the only barrier to volunteering these days. Time is another significant issue. Finding time to volunteer is challenging in today’s world, where families often work multiple jobs or extra shifts to make ends meet. Many are already sacrificing time with loved ones, so fitting in volunteer commitments can feel impossible. Some groups inadvertently make it even harder by scheduling meetings during prime work hours. For example, during COVID, I applied to join a community board. I was thrilled to be offered a spot—until I learned their meetings were biweekly on Fridays at 10 a.m. My work schedule made it impossible to attend. While they kept me in the loop via email, I never felt like part of the team since I was never directly involved in the discussions.
To attract volunteers, groups need to balance scheduling meetings at accessible times and clearly communicate the level of commitment required. Robert’s Rules of Order suggests spending about 10 minutes per agenda item, with meetings typically lasting 40–80 minutes for 4–8 agenda items. While there’s no guidance on meeting times, scheduling should accommodate as many participants as possible. If meetings exclude all but a select few, what does that say about the board’s inclusivity for the community?
Yet another challenge faced by community groups and boards in corralling volunteers is the is the unwarranted scrutiny volunteers sometimes face despite their active service to community. Volunteering is hard work, regardless of the group or role and each volunteer is human and therefore not perfect but they are making the best choices they can for the situations they are facing. The judgment volunteers endure—especially amplified by social media—can be discouraging. This topic could fill an entire blog post on its own and so I won’t dwell on it at this time.
During the holiday season, the spirit of giving often inspires people to dedicate more time and service to others. It’s a time when generosity and community come to the forefront, reminding us of the importance of helping one another. Yet, amidst this seasonal surge in goodwill, it’s important not to overlook those who volunteer year-round—the ones who consistently offer their time, skills, and energy to make a difference in their communities.
To all the volunteers out there: whether you’re assisting a neighbor, supporting a community group, or contributing to a larger organization—whether you had to apply for the role or simply stepped up to fill a need— THANK YOU! Your efforts, big or small, are the backbone of countless initiatives, and your dedication makes the world a better place. We see you, we value you, and we appreciate everything you do—not just during the holidays, but every day of the year.
Comments