Recently as part of the newly expanded tax report that trade associations must provide to the IRS, we had to count up the number of our volunteers. Even we were startled by the final number. Expecting the usual 20-80 rule to apply or worse, we were pleasantly surprised that 30 percent of our members volunteer for ABC in some capacity.Many members actually volunteer in more than one way (e.g., Green Council and Safety Committee) but we only counted them once.
With everyone so busy these days doing two peoples’ job it certainly is harder to find time to volunteer now, but we are still pleased with the number of members who show up to task force, committee and council meetings.
So why do members keep showing up, despite the tough times? Because they get something out of it and enjoy working with their peers. It offers a sense of accomplishment, helps them achieve their own company goals, and gives them a break from the daily grind at work. It also provides them with additional networking and relationship-building opportunities. They learn new things from their fellow volunteers that help them get new business or cut costs.
Even though it may seem counterintuitive, this may actually be a good time to get involved in ABC as a volunteer. If you’d like to explore your options, contact Member Services Coordinator Kim Trautman at (800) 640-7789.