Building Forward Together: Reflections on the Final Workshop for Sustainable Volunteering in the LTH Sector

On 14 April 2025, volunteers, coordinators, and researchers came together at NHL Stenden in Leeuwarden for the final workshop of our research project on sustainable volunteering in the Leisure, Tourism & Hospitality (LTH) sector. This event marked not just a conclusion, but a meaningful moment to reflect, connect, and collectively envision the future of volunteering in regional contexts.

Practice-Informed Research

In a collaboration between NHL Stenden and Breda University of Applied Sciences, we explored how volunteering in regional settings can contribute to both vibrant organisations and meaningful engagement. Through interviews, workshops, observations, and a participatory approach, we developed five thematic models:

1. Volunteer Recruitment – continuous, visible, and personal
2. Appreciation Programmes – contextual, often intangible
3. Intergenerational Collaboration – focused on mutual learning
4. Digital Communication Management – hybrid and intentional
5. Flexible Engagement – adaptable to life phases and schedules

Workshop Highlights

Participants connected over key themes like digital tools, appreciation, and intergenerational cooperation. Reflections touched on practical challenges and visionary ideas — from the charm of a volunteer guiding visitors with a laminated A4 sheet in a museum to the risks of overregulation. One quote struck a chord: “One extra rule means one less volunteer.”

Download the Project Booklet

We’ve compiled all the models, insights, and examples into a practical booklet (in Dutch only). This serves as a guide for organisations seeking to develop sustainable and inclusive volunteer policies.

📥 Download the booklet (PDF – Dutch): bookletvolunteering.tiiny.site

Looking Ahead

We closed the day with a shared aspiration: to reconvene in a year and see how dreams have taken shape and how barriers have been overcome. A follow-up peer session for educators and researchers underscored that this is not an end but a beginning. We look forward to further collaboration across research, education, and practice.

Many thanks to all volunteers, managers, and partners who contributed their time, insights, and energy. Together, we’re shaping a future where voluntary engagement is both valued and resilient.

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📬 Interested in continuing the conversation?

Get in touch: Dr. Geesje Duursma – geesje@destinationduursma.com

Dr. Rodney Westerlaken M.A., M.Si., M.Ed. 🟥 – rodney.westerlaken@nhlstenden.com

Hotel Management School Leeuwarden at NHL Stenden , NHL Stenden

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