Volunteering: A Grossly Misunderstood Act

Volunteering has always been an integral part of my journey, shaping my personal values and professional ethos since the childhood. In 2011, when I had the privilege of establishing the Curtin Alumni Sri Lanka Chapter attached to Curtin University , I have embraced volunteering as a means to make meaningful contributions to society. Over the years, it has not only offered me social recognition, an extended network, and prestigious awards but has also profoundly influenced my understanding of leadership and purpose.

However, as I reflect on my years of voluntary service, I notice a troubling trend, the fundamental misunderstanding of what volunteering entails. This misunderstanding threatens to undermine the true spirit of volunteering and the transformative impact it can have on individuals and communities alike.

Volunteering: A Grossly Misunderstood Act

Volunteering is often romanticized, yet many people approach it with misconceptions. Some join voluntary movements expecting to be led, guided, and even micromanaged, reducing themselves to passive participants in what should be an active, self-driven pursuit. Others confuse volunteering with charity, assuming that the sole objective is to give without expecting growth, development, or learning in return.

But here’s the hard truth: volunteering is not for the faint of heart or the idle follower. It demands initiative, grit, and a relentless commitment to problem-solving. True volunteering requires one to step up and lead, even in the absence of guidance, resources, or recognition. It is about being the change agent, not merely a cog in the wheel.

The Scottish Government’s "Volunteering for All"

Volunteering holds immense potential, not just for personal growth but for fostering strong, inclusive communities. The Scottish Government’s "Volunteering for All" framework beautifully encapsulates this vision. It advocates for a Scotland where everyone can volunteer freely, frequently, and throughout their lives. Importantly, it recognizes that volunteering is not just an act of service; it is a means of enhancing personal, community, and national well-being.

The framework lays out principles designed to make volunteering accessible, flexible, and inclusive. This includes providing practical support, training, and clear guidance to empower volunteers, while ensuring they can adapt their commitments to fit their unique circumstances. Furthermore, it highlights the vital role of social connections in volunteering—encouraging participation as a way to strengthen community ties and foster a collective sense of responsibility.

For those interested in learning more about this forward-thinking approach to volunteering, I highly recommend exploring the full framework at Volunteering National Framework.

A Framework for Transformational Volunteering | My Take

The Scottish Government’s "Volunteering for All" framework offers a powerful perspective, describing volunteering as a choice made of free will to improve not just individual lives but the well-being of communities and nations. This underscores a vital point: volunteering is not just about helping others; it is about creating a better version of ourselves in the process.

To align with this framework, we must reimagine volunteering through three pivotal lenses:

1. Volunteering as Leadership Every volunteer should see themselves as a leader. Whether it's organizing an event, solving a problem, or simply offering support, leadership is about taking initiative. Volunteers should identify gaps, envision solutions, and work toward outcomes that make a tangible difference.
2. Volunteering as Growth Personal growth is an inherent part of volunteering. It pushes us out of our comfort zones, forces us to confront challenges, and equips us with invaluable skills like communication, empathy, adaptability, and resilience. Volunteering is not just an act of giving; it’s an act of becoming.
3. Volunteering as a Societal Obligation Volunteering is a cornerstone of a thriving society. By dedicating time, skills, and resources to a cause, we actively contribute to building stronger, more inclusive communities. This isn’t optional; it’s a responsibility we must take seriously if we are to leave a legacy of positive change.

The Tragic Pitfalls of Misguided Volunteering

Throughout my volunteering career, I’ve encountered individuals whose approach to volunteering is deeply flawed. Some join for personal gain, seeking prestige without the hard work. Others enter with a sense of entitlement, expecting guidance at every step, and balking at the idea of taking initiative. This mindset not only diminishes their contributions but also undermines the collective goals of the organization or movement they are part of.

Such attitudes are symptomatic of a deeper problem: a lack of understanding that volunteering is inherently a leadership role. If every volunteer waited to be told what to do, nothing of significance would ever get accomplished.

Volunteers Must Be Leaders, Not Followers

A true volunteer embodies leadership.

They:

• Take Initiative: They don’t wait for instructions; they act.
• Inspire Others: They motivate those around them through their actions, commitment, and vision.
• Own Outcomes: They take responsibility for their contributions, celebrating successes and learning from failures.

This leadership-driven approach to volunteering transforms not only the volunteer but also the organization and community they serve.

The Multifaceted Rewards of Volunteering

The rewards of volunteering are manifold:

1. Social Impact: Volunteering addresses pressing societal issues and uplifts communities.
2. Personal Growth: It hones essential skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability.
3. Professional Advancement: The leadership skills developed through volunteering are highly valued in the workplace.
4. Recognition and Legacy: A volunteer’s contributions often earn respect, awards, and a lasting legacy.

But perhaps the greatest reward is the internal transformation—a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes from knowing you’ve made a difference.

A Call to Arms: Reclaiming the Spirit of Volunteering

It’s time to reclaim the true spirit of volunteering. This requires a mindset shift, both individually and collectively:

• Volunteers must see themselves as leaders, not followers.
• Organizations must foster an environment where initiative and ownership are encouraged.
• Communities must recognize and celebrate the efforts of volunteers, reinforcing the value of their contributions.

Volunteering is not a passive act; it is an act of courage, vision, and commitment. It is a declaration of intent to leave the world better than you found it.

Volunteering: Something to Discuss

As someone who has walked this path, I can say with certainty that volunteering is one of the most rewarding pursuits one can undertake. It’s not just about giving back, it’s about rising above, growing beyond, and inspiring others to do the same.

To those who volunteer or are considering it: be bold, be relentless, and be a leader. The world doesn’t need more followers; it needs people who are willing to take the reins and drive meaningful change.

Volunteering is not just an opportunity, it’s a responsibility. And in fulfilling that responsibility, we find our truest selves.