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Local nonprofits have some work to do, as they continue to deal with the loss of volunteers to support their work. Though some communities maintain a more vigorous volunteer presence than others, the United Way of Central Ohio told WBNS it saw a 60% decline in the number of volunteer hours logged, from 2019 to 2022.
The reason is obvious, as retirees often become volunteers, and those of retirement age were more vulnerable while we faced the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Corporate volunteers fell victim to the pandemic as well, when remote work made it less likely employees would volunteer as a group.
Turnaround of the trend has not been speedy.
"We're seeing some return to volunteerism that's really encouraging but certainly could always use more," Mary Birchard, VP of resource development and chief development officer for United Way of Central Ohio, told WBNS.
Food pantries need help stocking shelves and distributing food. (Of course, they also need steadier donations of food and necessities). Animal shelters need help taking care of their wards. Nonprofits of all kinds need volunteer support almost as much as they need resource donation.
"No matter what the volunteer experience you're doing is, you're going to get more out of it than you give," Birchard said.
If you've been out of the game for a few years, consider jumping back in. There are all kinds of groups that could use the help.
And if you've never volunteered, look around. Find the group that appeals to your sense of purpose and find out how you can lend a hand. You'll make a world of difference.