Volunteering should become part of everyone’s life by 2032, but organisations need to devolve power to individuals and communities, according to a new report.
The Vision for Volunteering movement, led by NAVCA, NCVO, Volunteering Matters, the Association of Volunteer Managers and Sport England, today published their key themes, following an evidence gathering phase which heard from over 300 people.
Ruth Leonard, chair of the Association of Volunteer Managers, said: “Today’s publication is deliberately not the delivery of a finalised action plan - this is the start of the next chapter in a conversation about what is needed to create a diverse, innovative, ambitious and person-centred future for volunteering.
“I know that many are already working on the principles outlined in the Vision or are keen to take them on board - whatever stage you are at, we hope that the Vision and its insights can enable you and we’d love to hear your voice in this continuing dialogue.”
Five key themes
The vision identifies five key themes for the future of the volunteering ecosystem, which are:
- Awareness and appreciation.
- Power.
- Equity and inclusion.
- Collaboration.
- Experimentation.
The vision says: “We want a future in which volunteering is further ingrained in the collective psyche, is part of everyone’s life, and in which it’s always easy to find ways to make a difference.”
It also sets out an aim to be person-centred, instead of impact centred.
Emma-Jane Gill, an ambassador for youth social action campaign #iwill, said: “I’d describe myself as being in a long-term relationship with volunteering, and it’s safe to say that I would not be where I am today without it.
“Being able to give my time and expertise flexibly and connecting with a wide range of people through different kinds of voluntary work has been the source of great enjoyment, fulfilment, and direction - and has helped me make a start in the world of work.
“I hope that the Vision for Volunteering can contribute to many more people having a range of opportunities to make volunteering a part of their life.”
Related articles
