What happened to volunteers? Where did all the “what’s in it for me?” people come from? I volunteer for three organizations and I’m tired of hearing “I’m too busy” or “My time is worth more than that.”
If you volunteer your time, it should be just that—volunteering, not looking for what you can gain. Volunteering is for self-satisfaction or service to your community. If you are looking for profit or need some kind of monetary incentive, you are not a volunteer!
There are many, many, good people in this community who are true volunteers. Not only them, but their families who support them, giving up evenings together, birthdays, etc. These folks don’t ask anything in return. If you know such a volunteer, thank them!
I realize people’s lives are busier these days for whatever reason, but if you volunteer for something you are making a commitment of your precious time. If you do volunteer, don’t complain when you actually have to show up.
Am I wrong? Should I also start asking “What’s in it for me? Why should I give up my precious time to help you?”
That’s not going to happen to me anytime soon, but I get worn down by hearing from all the “what’s in it for me?” people. Instead of asking “what’s in it for me?” how about asking, “How can I help make this community better?”
Me? I’ll keep doing what I do.
Ben Silence
Grand Marais
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