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Volunteering: Contribution to the Community Essay

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"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."
- Margaret Mead

Volunteerism, in its conceptual form, includes the individual or collective efforts of willing individuals, known as volunteers, to act in ways which work toward the betterment of oneself, other individuals, communities, and/or society. This definition remains subjective in its ambiguity regarding the meaning of betterment, as well as in the sense that the means to bettering oneself may be in direct opposition to the means necessary to better another individual or society. Despite the subjectivity of this definition, this general description of volunteerism is necessary for communication …show more content…

In order to adequately understand the meaning of volunteerism in the United States, one must take into consideration the cultural baggage which these Americans, called volunteers, bring into their designated volunteer assignments. The American culture stresses individualism; the attitudes of 'being all that one can be' and the question of 'how will this benefit me' pervade the American individualistic mind. Without placing a value judgment on these attitudes, they do not coincide with the intended goals and values of volunteerism, unless our definition of volunteering has taken on a new meaning.

The Newsweek article glamorizes volunteerism; it advertises the material and personal benefits that one can receive from volunteering. While I hope volunteers will apply themselves wholeheartedly enough to their task, one's decision to volunteer should not come out of a need for self­gratification or self­affirmation. It should also not come out of a desire to be able to add something to our repertoire of charitable activities about which we can brag. The truth is, volunteering is not always a joy ride that is mutually enjoyable; it is hard work. Though many times a volunteer will feel an incredible amount of satisfaction after witnessing the fruits of his/her efforts in helping to better someone's life, this does not characterize every situation. As a result, volunteers will not always boost their egos, and they will not

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