Overcoming Barriers to Regular Volunteering: Personal Experiences and Insights

Volunteering, a noble and impactful pursuit, can be incredibly rewarding. However, many individuals are deterred from regularly engaging in it. In this article, we explore the challenges and personal experiences of someone who has considered and eventually embraced volunteering, focusing on three key barriers: exhaustion, inadequate support, and mismatched volunteer positions.

Why Not Me?

Initially, the notion of volunteering may seem out of reach. After all, most people picture it as a task reserved for those with ample free time and a desire to contribute. With a demanding personal and professional life, the idea of adding another responsibility may seem daunting. My life is so full already, without any additional commitments, especially in light of my other responsibilities and commitments.

I share my life with my significant other, and both of us are deeply involved in our relationship. In addition to this, I visit my mom in a nursing home, take care of my responsibilities, and make sure to allocate time for relaxation. By the end of the day, I feel fully fulfilled. Despite this, the reality is that there are many individuals seeking to volunteer, and their passion for contributing to society is commendable.

The Challenges of Volunteering

Exhaustion

As we age and our bodies naturally change, the idea of dedicating a lot of effort to volunteering can be daunting. I am no longer young, and I am less able-bodied than before. Volunteering requires a significant amount of energy and endurance, which can be draining. For instance, when I was responsible for a therapy dog, we visited a hospice where it took us most of the day to visit all the patients. I was always told to limit the visit to an hour, but this limited the number of patients who could benefit. This task, though rewarding, was too demanding for me.

Inadequate Support from Management

Volunteering often requires collaboration with other people. However, the management of volunteer organizations is sometimes on a different level, and they may not fully understand the challenges faced by volunteers on the ground. During my tenure, the therapy dog program, while rewarding, was fraught with management issues. We had to cater to the needs of multiple patients within a limited timeframe. My request for additional support, such as another volunteer team, was not granted, and eventually, I had to leave the organization due to my dog's age and fatigue.

Mismatched Volunteer Positions

Volunteer positions often do not align with the needs and abilities of individuals. For instance, in a youth leadership role, I was promised an assistant but never received one. The adult-child ratio was 1:6, and I was unable to increase the group size to accommodate the enthusiastic attendees. Even when I tried to get parental support, it was not forthcoming. The lack of resources and support can make these roles challenging and dissatisfying.

Another instance involved an emergency services deployment. While most events were positive and fulfilling, one particularly negative experience stands out. I was assigned to be a driver, but due to a manager's incompetence, I was put in a kitchen position despite never having completed the food safety course. This manager constantly criticized me, leading to a hostile work environment. The irony was that my common sense was actually correct, and later, when I completed the course, I found that much of the criticism was incorrect. Such abusive management can significantly hinder the enjoyment and effectiveness of volunteering.

Empowerment Through Choice

Despite these challenges, I have still found ways to contribute to society. I continue to volunteer, but I carefully select opportunities where I can be genuinely useful and appreciated. It is important to trust one's judgment and feel empowered to say no to positions that do not align with one's abilities and values. Recently, I have started a new volunteer gig as a mental health recovery seminar facilitator. My friend, who is an experienced and enthusiastic facilitator, is involved, and I am confident that the experience will be rewarding.

Other opportunities are also available, such as the shower bus for the homeless. There are diverse opportunities out there, and it is essential to choose the ones that resonate with one's values and abilities. Whether it is mental health support, homelessness support, or any other cause, the world needs volunteers. By actively seeking out these opportunities, individuals can make a meaningful impact while also ensuring their own well-being.

In conclusion, volunteering is a noble act that brings joy and satisfaction. It is essential to recognize the challenges and be discerning in choosing volunteer opportunities that align with one's abilities and values. With the right approach, volunteering can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience for all involved.