More than “Working for Free”

For some people, volunteering can be a “good” addiction; be it a hobby, a passion, or simply a way to give back to their community.

What exactly is a “Volunteer?”

The Merriam- Webster Dictionary defines a volunteer as:

Noun – A person who voluntarily undertakes or expresses a willingness to undertake a service.

Which begs the question how they define “Voluntary”

– proceeding from the will or from one’s own choice or consent.
– acting or done of one’s own free will without valuable consideration or legal obligation.

Of course, some of the people around us might offer different definitions than the dictionary…

–  Someone who contributes time for others’ benefit because they want to and not because they have to.
– A person whose family worries they may be going crazy for giving up some of their time.

Ultimately, a volunteer is a donor who gives THEMSELVES and their TIME instead of money.

Definitions aside, however, Volunteers are an important – even an essential part of the betterment of our society.  Many of the good deeds done in the world – humanitarian care, disaster cleanup, social programs, and of course public education – are performed by nonprofit organizations who could not function without volunteers.

On average, volunteers in the United States save the nonprofit organization they serve about $32 per hour given.  Many nonprofits – ours included – would not be able to exist without the freely given time of the people who care about their mission and activities.

In Our Organization

At the National Road Heritage Foundation, we recognize and appreciate the personal sacrifice our volunteers give.  We know that you could be at home, with family, doing something for yourself, but instead choose to come and give some of your time to our efforts.

The time you give helps us to fulfil our mission and has a greater impact on the community as a whole.

• Keeping our museums open for the education and enjoyment of the public
• Bringing fresh ideas to our organization
• Expanding our hours and program offerings
• Allowing more museum activities for all ages
• Improving economic development along the road
• Helping Boonsboro businesses through the Visitor Center

Requirements for Volunteering

• The ability to speak is a plus, ideal opportunity if you really like to talk about history topics.
• Pointing (at things, not at people unless they are in a photograph, and really only when necessary
• Walking, Standing and/or sitting.  As long as you can do one of those you’re good.
• Remember the mantra “If you have time to lean, you have time to clean!” sit down and read a book.

A Donation, A Responsibility

Although you are not paid for your volunteer time, it is still an obligation and should be treated responsibly.

We do what we can to provide a laid-back and enjoyable atmosphere to our volunteer experience.  In the end, though, it is important to remember that you are volunteering to serve a role that would otherwise require an employee, and while on duty you should try to think of yourself as such as often as you can.  Sometimes it will require work – but not too often!