EMC261 - Use Volunteers? Y/N 4/6

These bulletins are a continuation for those in government who manage emergency response situations for local or state jurisdictions whether or not volunteers are utilized. See Bulletin 258 and 259 also.

1c. As to why they volunteer, they do the work because they enjoy doing it and have an inner sense of personal satisfaction from the doing of a task they have taken on and been asked to do by an agency of their community. This can be most difficult to comprehend by those whose thoughts are focused on their "job", or their "pay" from their employer.

1b. As to being threatened by volunteers:

• It is a normal trait to feel threatened by anything that we think can adversely affect our job, paycheck, job performance, or role in life.
• Rather than view volunteers as threatening or as a possible competitor we can view them as part-time co-workers whose role can materially enhance ours. The difference is literally in our head - the way WE think about it; our reaction.
• The roles of staff and volunteers can be designed so they do not overlap.
• Staff can be included in developing a volunteer program which can make a major difference in how staff interacts with either volunteer group.
• Also it helps all to assure that the staff clearly understands WHAT the volunteers will be doing and the role of the respective volunteer category.
• As staff openings develop it is very possible that a future employee may come from a volunteer contact. One who has an interest and strong ability to work full time for our agency as a co-worker, one whom we already know and enjoy working with, so it's a pleasure to bring in such a person over a total stranger.

1e: As to how to manage reserve or on-going volunteers:

• Treat them as you do paid staff, within the realm of their specialties. They are motivated by what those with whom they work do in response to their work: if it is good, say so, and if it needs to be improved, say so, why, and how.
• Above all else, be SURE to include them in all activations and emergency responses...they expect this and it is very much a part of their motivation to be actively utilized. Only the degree varies within a unit, some able to be much more active than others.
• Recognize them and find ways to let them know that.

Series continues next bulletin.