September brings with it the cool crisp dawn of autumn, the ever-evolving state of back to schoolness, and for many of us (though we may not outwardly admit it), the thrill of a new fall TV season! We await the return of our old favorites that left us dangling in the spring with cliffhangers and mystery endings; and we plan out which shows we'll test out - new shows gambling on one pilot episode to hook us.
The post-summer, post-vacation season also introduces us back to our regular volunteering gigs - whether it's at school, the foodbank for Hunger Action Month, with our scout troop, faith group or prepping for our routine holiday giving.
Approach volunteering with a Fall TV point of view and these four reminders!
1. Pick Up Where You Left Off: Where did you volunteer organization leave off last time? Maybe it was after your big fundraiser or the end of your weekly spring program? Approach a new season with bigger and better goals, recognizing your milestones and setting new records for acheivement. Start fresh, but still continue the "story" of your volunteer group that is ever-changing and growing. Remember, that which has been acheived in the past has paved the way for your community-changing successes now.
2. Embrace New Characters: We may not always be fans of new characters scripted in to spice things up on our favorite shows. As with volunteering, we have to give new volunteers time, recognize their contribution, and discover how their personality and direction can enhance the cohesiveness of the group as a whole.
3. Create New Storylines: Has the mission of your group or organization transitioned to meet new challenges this year? Rock the new storyline by being available to answer questions, guide volunteers in a new path, and still leave them hungry for what's to come. Preview the season at a volunteer kick-off or appreciation party, prepare parent volunteers at Back to School Night, and use free online sign up sheets to organize your storyline fast so you can focus on more of the action!
4. Build New Ensembles: Is the group dynamic of your volunteer organization changing? Whether it's a total shake-up or a simple re-structuring, recognize and embrace the growth! With any group, a comradery is attained through the complimenting gifts and talents of the many who contribute. Purposefully work to get the most out of your volunteers by offering meaningful opportunities to help that both capture their special skills and talents and still challenge them as individuals and as a group.
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