Motivations and Barriers for College Student Volunteerism
Developing a strong volunteer workforce is central to the mission of many nonprofit organizations, and college students are a demographic with the potential to fill much of that workforce. Volunteers themselves also benefit in a myriad of ways from the experience. As Gray and Stevenson (2020) found, “Sharing an identity with other volunteers promoted feelings of belonging, which in turn impacted upon the participants' wellbeing.” For young adults, volunteerism additionally offers a chance to practice career skills, gain experience, and network. Why, then, doesn’t every college student seek out volunteer opportunities? Prior studies have explored the reasons people do—and don’t—get involved in volunteerism. In a study of active volunteers among Lander University students presented at NCUR 2018, Haley Histon explored motivating factors behind student volunteerism, discovering that social connections and perceived career benefits were strong motivators. This study by a new researcher builds upon Histon’s data. A survey was administered in October 2020 to participants across the Lander population, including unlikely volunteers and those not yet active in the campus or community; questions focused on sources of resistance to volunteering. The data show that students’ busy schedules are an important point of friction in recruiting volunteers, suggesting a demand for short-duration or time-flexible volunteer opportunities. Direct, targeted communication strategies may overcome another major barrier: many students are awaiting an invite to volunteer. Ultimately, the data show that Lander students are strongly altruistic, motivated by gratitude and a desire for connection rather than by external affirmation, and are eager to find ways to serve. It is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic has left a large unmet need for volunteer opportunities, as well. The findings of this study can assist both the university and community organizations in creating volunteer opportunities designed to maximize student participation, for the benefit of all.
Brooke Tipton is from North Augusta, South Carolina. She is a senior majoring in sociology, with minors in nonprofit management, human services, and religion. Brooke is currently pursuing international mission and humanitarian work.