NAVPLG Panel Discussion at the National Conference on Volunteering and Service

Lee Ann Harvey

Each panelist offered their perspective on the origins of a unique program, partnerships formed, strategy for targeting volunteers, and lessons learned. Bonnie spoke about her award winning Make a Difference Day program and how it was enhanced by her city’s partnership with Cities of Service. She reminded us of the wealth of knowledge of our volunteers and how to incorporate it into our planning. Sue provided a new spin on how we look at involving volunteers by showing her civic engagement “bling ring” and the unique opportunities in engaging skilled volunteers for her city’s Volunteer Mediation Program. She pointed out that civic engagement cannot be developed through a “plug and play” approach. Christine Nardecchia highlighted her city’s Bicycle Ambassador Program.  She reinforced the concept of “service as strategy.” A key component in program development is aligning with your government’s strategic goals and utilizing community visioning.

Although each program was completely different, they were all united in the common theme of community. The difference between a local government volunteer program and that of a nonprofit is that our governmental programs help define the sense of “place.” People want to live in a place where they feel a sense of belonging. As Christine pointed out, “a community supports what a community defines.” We all help define our community by the work we do.