Every fall, VU generally receives an influx of potential volunteers who come for a homework session to “try us on for size.” This year has been no different as we welcome another new crop of volunteers.
Over the 12 years that I have been involved with the program, I’d have to say that about 90% of those perspective volunteers have signed on the dotted line and joined us as weekly volunteers. Although some volunteers have left us because of job transfers, moves to a warmer climate, or other life events, most have been with us for long periods of time. The commitment that these volunteers have to our organization is witnessed by the average monthly volunteer time in excess of 200 hours.
Many volunteers also contribute in other ways, such as buying treats for the kids , serving on the VU Board, making educational games, purchasing special books for our collection, and a host of other things that help round out our program. I know that many of our newbies will offer contributions beyond their regular volunteer hours and that our program will be enriched even more by their efforts. I can’t wait to see what’s to come!
Although I would normally post this sort of entry during National Volunteer Month in April, I feel particularly grateful for the number of new volunteers who have shown up this fall when our need is at its greatest. Thank you for all you do.
Barbara Sorenson, VU President