This September 11th is a bit different for yet another reason: it is the inaugural National Day of Service and Remembrance. The connection to the world of association volunteerism may be overshadowed by the thundering call for community service. It’s natural that the focus is on community service but it does keep association volunteering in a “best-kept secret” category.
We take and should take 9/11 as an opportunity to let association volunteerism shine – and encourage more of it. Think about it: we not only spearhead wonderful community service projects (American Speech Language Hearing Association’s Listen To Your Buds awareness program) but draw thousands of people into service through our associations. Our volunteers are involved in critical standard setting, in promoting ethical practices, in developing new processes, technologies, and solutions, in educating the public, and leading.
So how can we get heard and draw in more volunteers?
- First, read up on the Serve America Act, passed earlier this year, is intended to give additional focus, some resources, and support for volunteerism in America.
- Second,
choose a way to mark 9/11 then share your association’s plan and
commitment on the 911 Day of Service website. - Share that with members and encourage them to do their own pledge and post on the website.
- Consider having your own pledge page to gather your members comments and commitments.
- Register or update your organization on VolunteerMatch and on Service.gov. Read more on VolunteerMatch Nonprofit blog.
- Visit The Power of A for a look at what associations are doing, to add your story and to gather tools.
Let’s stand up and be counted – and celebrate our spirit of volunteerism!