In volunteer work, as in any other work, a combination of a volunteer’s actual skills and personal qualities is important. People with a certain character and set of values are more willing to volunteer, they are more invested, and they are less likely to burn out.
- Social engagement. Such a volunteer really cares about what is going on in society, he feels the power to change something. Without this “motor” inside, there is a risk of quickly burning out and giving up on their responsibilities.
- Altruism. The volunteer is willing to put the interests of others before his own and spend resources to help those in need.
- Tolerance. A volunteer doesn’t care how his mentee differs from others, what views and values he holds. The goal of the volunteer is to help, while remaining polite, friendly and understanding.
- Empathy. It is important for a volunteer to be empathetic to people, to share their concerns and frustrations. But they should find the line between empathy and full immersion into the fate and sufferings of a recipient, otherwise the psyche may not be able to withstand such an emotional burden.
- Responsibility. A volunteer, of course, does not owe anyone anything – he or she is not paid a salary and is not bound by an employment contract. Nevertheless, a volunteer should understand that his or her charges need long-term support, they become attached to their assistants and are very upset if volunteers leave them. In addition, in a team of activists, everyone relies on each other, so irresponsible people who quickly “merge” are unlikely to help a good cause.
- Willingness to work as part of a team. This is what effective systemic assistance is based on. A lone volunteer can’t go to an orphanage or a hospital, can’t lead an action or a subbotnik. Only with a team is it possible to build long-term connections with recipients and partners, achieve tangible results and receive psychological support in the form of supervision or just a friendly shoulder.
