In this episode, we discuss trends in the world of volunteering with our partners Debi Meeds from American Red Cross and Michelle Garand from Community Partnership of the Ozarks. Over the past 20 years, several studies have been completed on volunteering in our society. In the preparedness and disaster management community, volunteerism accounts for a significant amount of the work that is accomplished. Referencing trends and publications on the subject, we look at the needs of our local community and our opinions on what has and will continue to change in the world of volunteering. From the lack of hours available in people’s day-to-day lives, to the increased need for volunteers, and, as always, the infamous COVID-19 impacts, we work through the changes in our society that could play a role in what we have experienced as volunteer managers. As we head into a new year of resolutions and changes for students, we also take this opportunity to discuss options to volunteer locally.

Tune in to listen and contact oeminfo@greenecountymo.gov for more information on the cast or volunteering!