A qualitative study of the volunteer mind-set

Catherine Law, Cyril Peter

Abstract


Wellington South Community Patrol (WSCP) is an affiliate of the Community Patrols New Zealand (CPNZ) and fits into the safety, security and not-for-profit sectors or industries. Wellington South Community Patrol is registered as a charitable trust, as are most community patrol groups, and they get support in terms of training and funding from CPNZ.

The intention of this study is to understand the reasons individuals volunteer their time and skills for free. The findings will help to recruit, manage and retain volunteers. The key findings were:

 Volunteers are not in it for the money

 People can be motivated by recognition and rewards

 Volunteer mind-sets can be developed later in life. Many volunteers grow up in families where volunteering is the norm

 The appealing factors of volunteering are belongingness, safety, sense of achievement, satisfaction, increased knowledge and career benefits.


Keywords


volunteer, motivation, community mindedness, rewards, psychological contract

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