Volunteers are the Backbone of Nonprofits

Last week we welcomed back our volunteers with a party to kick-off the season and thank all of them for their dedication and service. During the party I looked around and realized what a unique relationship non-profit organizations get to have with dedicated, hard-working individuals who have a passion for what they volunteer for. While the party was given by the staff to thank the volunteers many of them showed up early to help us set up even though they were not asked to. It’s funny how the core of a person never changes no matter what the circumstance. Once a volunteer, always a volunteer.

Whether the non-profit is big or small I guarantee it could not survive without the worthy volunteer time of individuals. Take The Nelson-Atkins Art Museum for instance. Most of the greeters and security people standing throughout the galleries are volunteers. One of the reasons The Nelson-Atkins is able to open their doors for free to the public is because of these individuals willingness to serve.

Tomorrow night is our first concert of the season and I look forward to seeing our volunteers in action. At the box office I will be working with two women who have been volunteering in the box office during concerts for many years now. Since this is my first concert it is a great relief to me to be with two wonderful people who can show me the ropes.

I honestly do not know how we would survive without the help of many, many people who are dedicated to helping us bring beautiful music to the masses. If you are not yet volunteering for a non-profit arts organization I would highly recommend it. There is nothing more satisfying than working for a cause you believe in.