We now have data on a full year of the volunteer services that have been provided to our Standard Members. From October 1, 2013, through September 30, 2014, we had 293 service requests from our members. These requests resulted in 437 hours of service being provided by our great team of volunteers.
- 80% of our requests are for weekday, daytime hours. 20% are requests for evening or weekend hours.
- 60% of eligible members have requested and received volunteer services during this first year.
The types and percentages of services requested seem to me to be fairly typical of villages, although the percentage of transportation requests seem somewhat lower than many villages. This could be due to the fact that many of our medical offices are very close to where we live.
- 60% of our volunteers have provided services to our members.
- Close to 30% of our volunteers have provided services for the organization, such as providing assistance on Village committees, with events, or with administrative help, particularly working in our office.
So what have we learned?
First, the provision of our volunteer services is working – due to the generosity and dedication as our volunteers. When I send out our members’ requests, I am often surprised by how quickly our volunteers respond. At times, it takes longer and I might find myself calling some volunteers to fill a need. But, with the exception of less than a handful of times, all other needs have been fulfilled.
Second, despite this record, I believe that there are times when our members still are hesitant to ask for assistance. This is often characteristic of villages as they start. I would like to encourage all of our standard members to ask for assistance when they encounter a need. Don’t hesitate to ask for help; our volunteers are ready and willing!