International Volunteer Managers Day 2013

As we approach another International Volunteer Managers Day (IVMD), I ponder the true meaning of the day.  The banners and posters on the IVMD website suggest that IVMD is about thanking “Leaders of Volunteers” for fighting for and enabling volunteers and working their “Magic” or to perhaps “Go Crazy” celebrating the day or that a person who managers volunteers is some sort of “Miracle Worker”.

To me the message is clear.  If you value volunteers, you value volunteer managers!

It is not about being miracle workers or working magic.  It is about leadership and direction of volunteers, valuing their contributions by providing meaningful tasks within a professional, safe environment and acknowledging the donation of that very precious commodity, time.

http://volunteermanagersday.org/

 

Thank you speech for volunteers NVW 2013

"People may not remember exactly what you did, or what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel." Dr. Thomas L. Garthwaite

Volunteers share their joy and laughter and sometimes shed a tear.  They bring a kind word, a warm heart and empathy for a person who is unwell or lonely or scared.  They are dedicated, compassionate and willingly give their time to help others.

What volunteers receive in turn is a sense of achievement and satisfaction of being able to help someone in need.  They gain experience in communicating with people. They develop new friendships amongst the other volunteers and they grow in confidence.

I have seen powerful personal journeys where people have flourished as their confidence has grown through their volunteering.  The roles they perform, the people they meet, the time and compassion given and through all of this, they have achieved great personal growth.

Thank you for allowing me, in some small way, to be a part of that amazing journey.