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Bounce-Back of Episodic Volunteers: What makes episodic volunteers return? Working Paper No. CPNS 32

Bryen, Leonie M. and Madden, Kym M. (2006) Bounce-Back of Episodic Volunteers: What makes episodic volunteers return? Working Paper No. CPNS 32. [Working Paper]

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Abstract

This exploratory Australian study uses qualitative method to examine the views and experiences of episodic volunteers in a local government community environmental group. Its aim is to investigate whether traditional retention methods and practices are applicable when bouncing-back episodic volunteers. Findings show episodic volunteers can be predominantly motivated by altruism, in this case contributing to environmental preservation, with egotistic motivations such as enjoying the social interaction of the group, secondary. Having their needs satisfied in these areas, particularly perceiving an impact that their efforts had in their local environment, was vital to their bouncing back. Results point to a range of differences from traditional volunteers, including less need for training, the opportunity to learn new skills and extrinsic rewards, as well as a need for organisational flexibility in allowing episodic volunteers to move in and out of the organisation easily.

ID Code:4450
Item Type:Working Paper
Additional URLs :
Keywords :qualitative research, volunteers, episodic volunteers, volunteering, environmental groups, volunteer retention
ISBN:1741071216
Divisions:QUT Faculties and Divisions > Faculty of Business
Copyright Owner :Copyright 2006 QUT
Deposited On:06 Jun 2006
Last Modified:23 Jan 2009 04:01

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