Project 3_ZionSmiley

Athey, C. (2008). Helping hands caring for abandoned or abused animals: Sustaining volunteer resources through an appreciative process (Order No. MR41776). Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses A&I. (304812753). Retrieved from https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/helping-hands-caring-abandoned-abused-animals/docview/304812753/se-2

"The community-based action research explored strategies in sustaining volunteer support from the Cochrane and Area Humane Society (herein after known as "the Society"). The Society shelters hundreds of abandoned or abused animals every year and relies heavily on volunteer support. Recruiting volunteers has become a challenge to (a) volunteers have decreased available hours to give, (b) an aging volunteer base, and (c) competing charities."

Song: Just A Moment With You (Adobe Stock)

Problems:

• {1} Volunteers have decreased the number of hours to give to volunteer. 

• [1] According to the article,  “By engaging in inquiry, I anticipated connecting the volunteer’s needs and input together with those in the position of making change, the Executive Board and management of the shelter” (pg. 2).

• [1] According to the text, “The volunteers were able to share insights into some of the strengths and weaknesses of supporting the shelter. There was also an opportunity for participating volunteers to gain a deeper understanding of some of the systems involved in running a shelter, thus, enhancing an environment of understanding for the needs at hand” (pg. 2)

• {2} Aging volunteer base (?). 

• [2] According to the article, “As the population ages so does the ‘nature of volunteering’ (Calgary Socio-Economic Outlook 2005-2010, p. 133). People are no longer volunteering long-term and the new volunteers are becoming ‘more specific in their demands and wish to volunteer on a time-limited basis’ ” (p. 133).

• [2] According to the text, “Many roles and responsibilities intertwine in maintaining an animal shelter. There is the blending of (a) paid roles and tasks, (b) volunteer roles and tasks, and (c)governing roles and tasks that need to function at a high capacity in order to accomplish objectives. The roles and boundaries of the Executive Board and management of the Society need to be considered” (pg. 5).

• {3} Competing charities. 

• [3] According to the article, “Because of an increase in the animal shelter needs, it was necessary to expand the size of its physical facility and put plans together for a new building” (pg. 8).

• [3] According to the text, “In 1998, the shelter became home to 119 animals, by 2001 the shelter saw nearly 5 times as many animals come through its doors. By 2006, the yearly total was 1,061 animals seeking shelter. Through fund-raising and dedicated support, the new building opened in June 2007” (pg.