08 August 2007

A new study by VolunteerMatch looks for keys to unlock the generosity of the Me Generation. It's findings include high expectations, skilled volunteers and the internet playing a huge role in the future of volunteering.

Great Expectations: Boomers and the Future of Volunteering, offers an improved understanding of some of the unique characteristics of this volunteer
demographic, and serves as a fresh resource for nonprofits in need of volunteers, especially those who can offer a lifetime of personal and professional skills.

"We see tremendous vitality and innovation in civil society today"said Greg Baldwin, president of VolunteerMatch. More and more organisations understand the strength and talent of volunteers and the significance of the opportunity with the boomer generation this study points to how they can unlock that potential.
 
Great Expectations: Boomers and the Future of Volunteering; explores both the nonprofit and the volunteer perspective, but focuses on identifying the evolving motivations, attitudes, skills and expectations of volunteers as they mature. The study also underscores the growing use of the Internet among older Americans and illustrates its usefulness as a tool for connecting volunteers with local nonprofit organisations.
 
Among the Key Findings of the report:

• Many older non-volunteers are reconsidering volunteering
• Older non-volunteers aren't volunteering because they haven't found the right opportunity
• Older adult volunteers are more likely to appreciate the personal significance of volunteering
• Volunteers grow increasingly interested in making use of their career and non-career related skills as they mature
• The Internet can be a powerful tool for helping more older adults find a meaningful place to volunteer.

The coming wave of Baby Boomers is one of the best opportunities the nonprofit sector has ever had to expand its reach and impact," said David Eisner, CEO of the Corporation for National Community Service. "If we do this right, we will change the face of volunteering and find millions of new volunteers to tackle our toughest social problems."