Volunteer Works: Time Commitments, The Long And The Short Of It

By Danita Brisson

Volunteering is a personal and satisfying way to support a cause. When deciding whether a long or short-term commitment works for you, consider what each asks and offers in return. Can you dedicate time every week, a few days once a year, or your off hours at home? Do you aspire to lead or assist, facilitate or experience, teach or learn?  This month’s virtual panel, Barbara Wilson-Clay, Tim Fournier, and Cyndi Johnson give us their insights, experiences and naturally, their time.

Barbara says joining Mujeres en Cambio was a “lucky confluence.” Many of her friends volunteered with the group, including co-founder Georgeann Johnson, and encouraged her to participate. As she nears two years in a communications capacity with Mujeres, Barbara observes:

I believe in doing good wherever I can. I’m a former high school teacher and am organized by nature. I wanted to use my writing skills (but) I didn’t want to lead. It’s a real pleasure pulling together with friends to get things done. To maintain a healthy balance, I compartmentalize my time volunteering as an equal component with my other activities. Be mindful of scope creep, though. It’s easy to become over-committed (when the cause matters to you). Special events can be intrusive and drain volunteer resources. When you’re giving your time to nonprofits, you want them to be effective and proven, and to be good stewards of their resources.

Tim feels privileged to have volunteered with San Miguel Writers’ Conference & Literary Festival for two years. The former principal travels from Michigan for a week, just to do so. He has also served as a member of the Peace Corp in Colombia, Nicaragua and México. In both long and short-term commitments, “Volunteers like to feel successful,” says Tim. He advises:

Short-term volunteering offers a focused experience and the opportunity to make new acquaintances. Some become deep friendships. The short timeline gives me a sense of urgency. I only get so many swings, so I want to make each one count. Now that I’m retired, I can pursue more of these opportunities because of my flexible schedule. Long-term experiences allow me to develop deeper relationships with fellow volunteers, the people served, and the job itself. I was once a volunteer probation officer. I developed a solid understanding of the system and strategies for mentoring and am still in contact with a fellow volunteer. The best organizers communicate a clear mission and train volunteers for their roles. They also model the behavior they want.

Cyndi didn’t even know how to crochet when she volunteered with Hats and Scarves for Campo Kids eight years ago. Now, whenever she sits or watches television, she stitches warm winter gear for needy kids. She notes:

I have been on Boards, but this is more creative and less structured. I like the fact that there are no committee meetings or paperwork. It’s relaxing, not stressful. Sometimes our ladies and gentlemen get together to socialize and crochet, but snowbirds also make sets while they’re away to bring back here to distribute. (Choosing their hats and scarves) makes the kids so happy. You can always find the time to do good for the community. We’ll even teach you how!

In summary, whatever amount of time you offer in the service of others is a worthwhile and rewarding gift that not only does good but also feels good. So be selfish with your time, and volunteer.