Thanks for Volunteering
Posted on July 6th, 2009 by Cynthia D'Amour
Say what?
I received a gold-plated pin nested in a blue-velvet jewelry box in today’s mail.
- For my volunteer efforts.
- Recognizing my “many hours of dedicated service.”
- Helping out so many people.
Sounds nice - so what’s my problem?
- I have no idea why I got the pin.
- It’s a major organization in Ann Arbor.
- Thanking me for TWO YEARS of service!
I may have helped out for 3-hours one day…
- I’m not sure.
- The form letter didn’t mention what I did.
- (But it definitely raved about generic me!)
Does the recognition make me want to volunteer for them?
- No - the pin is maybe 1/3 inch square.
- Looks more like a small earring than a lapel pin.
- (Is this one of those “give free mailing labels to guilt action” attempts?)
If I got the pin for simply showing up one day for a few hours, the recognition feels shallow - not inspiring.
Makes me think of chapter leaders…how do volunteers feel when you thank them?
Filed under: Getting More Members Involved, Savvy Leadership
