Volunteering Development Officer Dave Thomas draws inspiration from a famous Shakespeare play for this week's blog, as he explores the various names people use for volunteering. Does a rose by any other name smell as sweet? How would renaming volunteering affect our perception of it?
The term volunteering originates from the Latin word voluntarius, meaning 'of one’s free will'. This highlights a key aspect of volunteering: the idea of freely offering time and effort without compulsion or expectation of reward.
There has been some debate around the term 'volunteering', and a few reasons are often cited by those who suggest it might be time for a new or alternative term. Here are some of the main points raised:
1. Perceived formality and exclusivity
Some people feel that 'volunteering' has taken on a formal connotation, often associated with established charities or organisations that require applications, training, and scheduled commitments. For some, this image feels restrictive and may exclude those who wish to contribute in informal, flexible ways. The term might not resonate with younger people or those who want to help on a more spontaneous basis without being seen as part of an 'official' programme.
2. Barrier for those who don’t identify as 'volunteers'
The label 'volunteer' doesn’t always appeal to everyone. For example, people who help friends, support family members, or contribute to their neighbourhood might not consider themselves 'volunteers'. The term can sometimes feel too formal or institutional, creating a barrier for individuals who may feel they’re just helping out rather than fulfilling a specific role. Some suggest a term that feels more inclusive and accessible might reach a broader range of contributors.
3. Concerns over unpaid labour
There are those who feel that 'volunteering' inadvertently promotes unpaid labour, especially when unpaid roles become essential to the functioning of organisations. Some worry that a focus on volunteering may mask the need for fair compensation in essential service roles. People advocating for a shift in terminology often want to address the fine line between 'volunteering' and roles that should offer fair pay for time and skills, particularly in sectors where volunteers are filling gaps in underfunded services.
4. Generational and cultural relevance
Younger generations and people from diverse cultural backgrounds may not relate as strongly to the traditional concept of 'volunteering'. Instead, terms like 'community action' or 'social impact' might resonate more with them as they suggest broader forms of engagement that align with modern values of inclusivity, flexibility, and purpose-driven work. By moving away from 'volunteering', some hope to foster a sense of community involvement that reflects the language and values of a younger, more diverse audience.
5. Shift to skills-based contributions
As volunteering increasingly involves skills-based contributions, such as pro bono consulting, technical support, or creative work, some argue that the term 'volunteering' doesn’t fully capture the specialised expertise being offered. This perspective favours terms like 'social investment' or 'skills sharing', which they believe more accurately represent the knowledge, professionalism, and commitment involved in these roles.
Considering Alternatives
Given the breadth of activities that can be considered volunteering, it might be beneficial to consider alternative terms that capture the diversity and spirit of these contributions. Here are a few suggestions:
Community service: This title has a broader reach and could apply to both structured and informal acts that benefit the community. However, it’s often associated with formal programmes and, in some cases, court-mandated service, so it might not fully reflect the voluntary aspect.
Community engagement: This option feels inclusive and dynamic, encapsulating not only direct service but also participation, involvement, and connection with others. It suggests a broader form of involvement beyond traditional volunteer roles, capturing informal and social contributions too.
Civic participation: This term implies active involvement in society, encompassing everything from environmental action to helping others in need. However, it might sound a bit too formal and could seem abstract for readers looking for something more direct.
Acts of service: This has a more open-ended and approachable tone, conveying the idea of giving time and effort to help others, regardless of structure or formal title. It highlights the idea of contributing without expecting a return, which could resonate well with readers.
Giving back: This phrase captures the essence of volunteering as a way to reciprocate or support the community. It’s accessible and can apply to both formal and informal acts, although it might be slightly overused in some contexts.
Helping hands: A more casual and friendly term, this could be suitable for readers new to the idea of volunteering or looking for ways to contribute outside formal roles. It’s simple and captures the spirit of generosity without the formality.
Why alternative titles fall short
Community service: Although 'community service' captures the idea of helping one’s community, it often conjures images of formal, organised projects. It’s also sometimes associated with compulsory service, as in court-mandated community service, which lacks the voluntary essence of traditional volunteering. As such, this term doesn’t fully communicate the idea of freely chosen contributions driven by personal commitment and interest.
Community engagement: 'Community engagement' is a broad and inclusive term that emphasises connection and involvement. However, it can sound somewhat abstract and might not clearly convey the element of hands-on, active help that characterises volunteering. Community engagement often includes broader activities, such as attending community meetings or civic events, which, while valuable, don’t always entail the personal investment of time and skills that define volunteer work.
Civic participation: This term implies active involvement in the public sphere and is often used in contexts like voting, public advocacy, and community decision-making. While it highlights an important part of contributing to society, it may sound too formal or political, and it doesn’t capture the deeply personal and altruistic side of volunteering. For many people, volunteering is about a direct connection with people and causes rather than just civic duty.
Acts of service: 'Acts of service' conveys a positive image of giving, and it’s open-ended enough to include a range of activities. However, this phrase can feel a bit vague and doesn’t clearly specify a personal, ongoing commitment. Volunteering often involves regular engagement and dedication, which 'acts of service' might not fully capture. The term may also come across as too general and lacking the sense of choice and autonomy embedded in volunteering.
Giving back: 'Giving back' is a well-loved phrase that reflects the spirit of contribution. It implies reciprocity and gratitude, and it’s accessible to many people. However, 'giving back' doesn’t necessarily capture the full commitment involved in volunteering, as it could include occasional donations or one-time gestures. It can sometimes be overused in marketing or corporate settings, which may dilute the sincerity of the term.
Helping hands: This term is warm, friendly, and inviting, which can be attractive to people who are new to volunteering. However, it may feel overly casual or simplistic, especially when describing long-term or skilled volunteer roles. It also doesn’t carry the same sense of purpose, autonomy, or commitment that 'volunteering' does, which can make it feel less impactful.
Why 'volunteering' remains the best term
Despite its limitations, 'volunteering' remains the best term we have. It is widely recognised and respected, conveying both the personal choice and selflessness that are central to this activity. Unlike some of the alternatives, 'volunteering' clearly indicates a conscious decision to commit one’s time and skills without expectation of financial reward. It has a longstanding association with positive social impact and a sense of duty that transcends formality.
'Volunteering' carries both structure and flexibility; it can mean anything from a few hours a month to a lifelong commitment. This adaptability is part of its strength, making it the most fitting term to capture the broad spectrum of ways people freely give to support causes, communities, and individuals.
What are your thoughts on the name 'volunteering'? Let me know by dropping me an email at davet@nottinghamcvs.co.uk.
