Creating a Culturally Competent Volunteer Program
The face of volunteerism is changing globally and our field is being challenged to respond in new and innovative ways. How do we create programs that welcome and affirm the variety of experiences our volunteers bring to the table? How do we meet the needs of our organization and mission in the process of change? In this Training Design, we focus on considerations and strategies for building cultural competence within volunteer programs. We provide handouts and activities that encourage and strengthen volunteers’ awareness of their own culture(s), as well as those of their colleagues. This Training Design can be used as a tool for both reflection and action in shaping volunteer programs that are welcoming and attractive to a diverse volunteer pool.
Previously posted comments
Mon, 08/16/2010Posted on 24 February 2008 by J Cravens, Consultant, United Nations Volunteers
Terrific training!
Posted on 2 February 2008 by Elizabeth Ellis, Volunteer Services Coordinator, Minnesota Department of Corrections, St. Paul, MN US
Great training outline! Your training design seems to be geared toward environments who have already achieved a clear and exalted level of consciousness of the value, benefits, impact and necessity for cultural capacity building within an agency AND programs. My experience is that many organizations are still struggling with the basic principles and practices of inclusiveness and continue to feel challenged, for what ever reasons, with incorporating, living and breathing the values and benefits rather than only giving "lip service" to the need. I would be interested in hearing feed back on the results and tangible outcomes of presenting this training...Cultural competency starts with top leadership and must become a “main course" for success.