Volunteering: Rewards without pay

Writer: Li Li Than Winn
Translator: Ingrid Bjørnevik Nygaard
Illustrator: Majken Holm-varsi

There are various forms of volunteer work – from being a bartender during UKA, to be a board member in an association, or to have a seminar for a solidarity organization. The common denominator for all volunteer work is that it doesn’t involve financial compensation. This is not a shock, considering the concept itself is based on voluntarism. Nonetheless, it is important to acknowledge that volunteering can have both positive and negative consequences for the person carrying out the work.

Volunteering can offer a range of benefits and gives the volunteer new experiences and opportunities for personal growth. The community that is achieved through volunteering is also something you never forget. I have personally volunteered for Operation Day’s Work (ODW) for several years, precisely because it was engaging and rewarding. At the same time, the organization introduced me for a network of like-minded people.

Organizations like Samfunnet i Ås, Tuntreet and Operation Day’s Work are entirely dependent on volunteers to keep things running. Whether you’re producing a student newspaper or creating a gathering place where people can grab a beer, you need people to step up. When you are a part of a community, it is expected that you contribute. The purpose of the volunteering gives me a sense that my contribution is meaningful, and for many, this sparks a motivation to contribute even more. However, it is always important to consider why you are volunteering and how you feel after completing the work. In other words, it’s worth evaluating what volunteering means for you and how it affects your wellbeing.

Unfortunately, a lack of balance between personal time and volunteer work can lead to being overwhelmed by everyday life. Many may feel that they have to put in extra effort to keep things going, which can lead to stress and exhaustion. Volunteers usually have a big drive to give more of themselves to benefit others – a very admirable quality – but it can often lead to neglecting their own wellbeing. Therefore, it is not only important to take breaks – it is necessary to maintain a healthy commitment. If you find it difficult to prioritize yourself, it is important to remember that you can take breaks if you feel worn out. You don’t have to carry the load alone, and it is equally important to take care of yourself.

Engagement grows when you understand the meaning behind the work and enjoy what you do. Enjoying yourself while volunteering is essential for one’s own wellbeing. And even though you don’t receive a paycheck, the free meals on the job, discounts, new friends and experiences are quite a good alternative.