Results of Volunteer Survey

NHCO is "People Helping People" with more than 2,000 volunteers giving over 38,000 in 2004-05, with little thought of recognition. In July 2005, a survey was mailed to a representative sample of volunteers, and 25 volunteers responded with their thoughts on the subject of recognition. If you are an NHCO volunteer and would like to add your own thoughts, we would love to hear from you! Please contact Jen Drayton at 412-487-6316, option 2.

1. Do you feel that volunteers want a formal recognition program/dinner?
   • No - 20 respondents
   • Yes - 5 respondents
     
2. If there were a recognition program, what should it be?
• Informal gathering/potluck provided by staff - 10
• Volunteers provide potluck - 6
• Formal dinner - 2
  
3. How much money should be spent on this event?
   • $0 - 18
   • Less than $500 - 7
   • More than $500 - 0
     
4. What smaller tokens of appreciation would you like to see for volunteers?
   • Color pins that represent number of hours served - 8
   • Bulletin board highlighting a volunteer - 5
   • Write-in comment:
     • Entire volunteer page in newsletter and annual report
     • Certificate of appreciation with number of hours served

Other comments from volunteers:

• I feel volunteers are there because they want to be there and that no formal recognition is necessary. All the hours spent organizing this event could be spent on more important issues.
• Volunteers should be satisfied with current thank you's. The staff is so appreciative each time I volunteer that I can't imagine needing anything else. What I like about NHCO is the focus on the clients and helping them. I feel strongly that volunteers receive intrinsic rewards and any other recognition would only take dollars away from clients.
• I don't expect recognition. A simple thank-you luncheon similar to the one we just had is more than enough (just to meet other volunteers).
• Keep the expenses very minimal.
• Money should be used for the needy - not volunteers.
• The appreciation expressed by our clients and NHCO staff is all the thanks I need.
• I would rather the money be spent to help with the mission.
• Recognition is important, but keep it simple and inexpensive.
• An afternoon gathering to meet other volunteers. Perhaps have coffee/soft drinks and a light refreshment.
• I'd rather see monies go towards other NHCO programs and not spent on catering.