In these columns councillors have talked about the enjoyment of volunteering and the benefits to our community, something the Mayor referred to recently.
The same edition (Advertiser 11 July) discussed the volunteering research survey conducted by the Maryborough Volunteer Resource Centre and Council to help strengthen volunteering.
As a rural ward councillor, I see the difficulties our community organisations have attracting new members especially office-bearers. Those that do renominate often would like a break, but with no replacement available, and putting community first, they reluctantly soldier on. How can members in community organisations help to turn this around?
I would encourage every organisation to sit around a table with a small box next to a big box on a sheet of paper. The big box should be the outcomes, deliverables and benefits the organisation delivers. The small box, all the administration and process which members participate in. What we often find is the reverse – we are so busy with our monthly meetings, agendas, minutes and processes that they take over.
Perhaps consider if monthly meetings are necessary. Fewer meetings may suffice. Minutes can simply record key decisions. Agendas should focus on matters which create real benefits. Sharing tasks creatively may assist.
Younger people and many older want to focus on projects and hands-on activities where they can see beneficial achievements. The recent weekend tidy up of Bristol Hill a brilliant example.
Quite simply the way we engage people to volunteer is rapidly changing. Critically we must understand this and adapt accordingly.
