Working with volunteers

Recent research (Ironmonger 2006) has shown that regional Queenslanders contributed approximately $3.3 billion to their communities in 2004 through volunteering in an organisation.

Volunteers are therefore a critical resource for all communities, and require support, coordination and recognition.

Some things that communities can do to support their volunteers are:

• Match volunteers roles with their interests and skills. Most voluntary organisations will interview volunteers and identify roles that suit people’s interests and available time
• Formalise the roles of volunteers. Increasingly organisations have position descriptions for voluntary roles. This helps to clarify people’s roles and formally recognise their contribution
• Offer training and development to volunteers. Developing skills and interests can be an important benefit for volunteers
• Recognise and celebrate the contribution of volunteers
• Reduce the chances of ‘burnout’ by rotating roles, having realistic schedules, and coordinating and supporting volunteers.

Extra resources

• Ironmonger, D. (2006) The Economic Value of Volunteering in Queensland. Report commissioned by the Queensland Department of Communities.
• More information and strategies to support volunteers are available at Volunteering Queensland