Increasing Both Organizational and Client Capacities During Tough Economic Times: An Examination of the Consumer and Incentive-Based Ambassador Volunteer Program

Abstract

Various economic and societal conditions are making it more difficult for community-based agencies to sustain volunteer programs. Therefore, concerned managers have to become creative in designing their volunteer programs. This article examines an innovative consumer and incentive Ambassador Volunteer Program designed to meet the dual goals of building the employment capacities of consumers and the volunteer capacity of the agency in a disadvantaged urban community. Survey, focus group, and interview data help detail the structure of the program, assess its benefits to volunteers, and examine its strengths and limitations as viewed through the experiences of both the volunteers and staff.

Keywords:

• volunteer program
• consumer and incentive-based
• community-based human services
• volunteer ambassadors