ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Volunteers are the foundation of social service agencies in rural communities, yet limited research exists on their needs and challenges. Motivated by the multi-dimensional older voluntarism sustainability framework, this study aims to understand (1) the characteristics of volunteers, (2) the relationships between volunteers' sense of community and their own aging and volunteer retention, and (3) the unique challenges faced by volunteers and volunteer-based agencies. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This study uses a mixed methods design. Data were gathered via telephone interviews (n=76) and in-person focus groups (n=14) from the volunteer pool of a non-profit organization in rural Michigan. Descriptive and regression analyses were conducted to understand the characteristics of the volunteers. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify unique challenges faced by rural agencies and volunteers. RESULTS: Findings show that most volunteers were over 70, women, married, volunteered weekly or more, and were affiliated with multiple agencies. Volunteers with a stronger attachment to the community and higher self-perceptions of aging were likelier to continue and increase volunteering commitments. Due to the low population density in rural areas, volunteers were concerned about the heavy burden of volunteering, the lack of social connections with fellow volunteers, and the lack of active involvement in shaping the organization. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Results from the study shed light on the urgent need for creative and engaging volunteer recruitment and retention strategies to sustain older adults, service agencies, and communities in rural areas.
ABSTRACT
A recent Australian legal decision means that, unless faculty members are bound by an assignment or intellectual property policy, they may own inventions resulting from their research.
