Volunteering. A great way to give back, help out and be a part of something. We as a society need those individuals of generous heart – that offer up their time, talents and treasure to make things better. What would our world be without the bell ringers, soup kitchen cooks and Sunday school teachers that show us what it is to be of service to humanity.
Unfortunately, for some it is also a great way to further bolster their need to boss people around, make themselves feel important and get their 15 minutes of fame. Can someone please tell me when and how the lowly volunteer becomes the volunteer-zilla? What is the tipping point? When and how do people determine that its time to “show ‘em how its done?” and usher themselves into philanthropic history?
I have been involved in projects and missions over the years with varying degrees of success. The thing is that no matter how much money you raise, food you collect, blood you siphon or fish you fry there is a common denominator. WORK. It takes a lot of work. Outlining, organizing, recruiting and of course the ever fun – begging for donations. The learning curve is steep so get your hiking boots on and plan your route.
So, you say, what’s your point? Today friends, I want to quite plainly point out to those of you taking on a new volunteering project. Please realize a few things. First, those people you are joining, (in other words the ones that have already done this a time or two), know more than you do. They do – so its probably not a good idea to go to your first meeting and say something. Anything. In other words – shut your trap and open your ears. There will be time to share your ideas once you get a clue what is going on. I like to say, “if you think you are the most important person in the room, you are in the wrong room.”
Secondly, your addition to the cause is not going to guarantee “this is going to be the best (Insert event here) ever!” Its really not. That’s not to say you wont make a contribution or that you aren’t going to help make for a successful event – but the fundraising drive that usually nets $5000 isn’t suddenly going to bring in $5 Million. Set a reasonable goal and build on it but don’t get full of yourself. No one likes a show off.
Lastly, if you really want to make an impact, get a job! One that you can get fired from – and learn (or remember) how to produce. I guarantee it will make you more effective. A better leader and more efficient volunteer. Its said if you want to get something done, ask a busy person. So get busy. And remember that those who have been in the trenches have the war wounds you can only hope to get. Respect the veterans in the volunteer war. If you’re lucky one day you can compete with them – maybe.
Chapstick in the Dryer 