Multi-tasking as a Volunteer Recruitment Tool

In today's time-deprived world, one way to cope is to get good at "multi-tasking" - doing more than one thing at once. Some practices, such as texting and driving, are downright dangerous. But, listening to a book on tape while driving is a way to use time productively.

The volunteer world can put multi-tasking to excellent use as an attractive recruiting pitch. Here are some examples:

• Feeling bad or guilty that you are not spending enough quality time with your children? Why not volunteer together as a family? You'll all get to know each other in new ways while also being active citizens.
• Looking for someone special but worried about the safety of singles bars? Volunteer for a cause you love and meet other people who share your passions.
• Want to expand your resume with new skills and experience? Think of volunteering as a classroom in which you learn all sorts of new things while also doing good for others.
• Sitting at your desk to each lunch but know you should do more exercise? Walk a few blocks and come eat lunch with our residents. They will enjoy the company and you'll get fit!
• Love the arts but can't afford a ticket? Volunteer for the [museum, ballet, etc.] and get behind the scenes. Best of all, you'll be supporting the cultural opportunities you want everyone to have.
• Always watch a favorite television show every week or never miss our team's games? There's a homebound senior who shares your interest and would love to watch the show or game with you. So go sit in someone else's living room to do what you'd be doing anyway - but double the impact by spending time with a new friend.
• Newly retired and missing a regular schedule? We can help! Structure your week with a volunteer commitment. Move from "retirement" to "redirection."
• Do you drive past our agency every day going to and from work? Why not stop for an hour and help one of our children with homework? Maybe you'll even miss rush hour traffic!

In each case, you are recruiting for an existing volunteer position, but explaining it to a prospective volunteer in terms of his or her personal interests. You're saying "this service is important, AND it can help you, too." It's not selfish. People want to be of service but don't think they have the time. Show them that they can multitask in new ways!