Who Volunteers?

You might be curious who actually volunteers. Based on a 1996 Independent Sector Gallup Survey the following were characteristics of volunteers.

• Almost half (49%) of the people who participated in the study volunteered their time in some way.
• Males volunteered at a rate of 45%, while females volunteered at 52%.
• You may think if you work, you don't have time to volunteer. In reality slightly more full time employees (50%) volunteered than those who were unemployed (46%).
• The participation by race was 52% white, 35% black and 40% hispanic.
• People of all ages were volunteers. 55% of those between ages 35 and 55 volunteer; 48% for ages 55-65; 51% for ages 25-35 and 45% for those ages 65-75.
• Volunteers gave an average of 4.2 hours per week.
• Many volunteers have higher household incomes.
• A high percentage of volunteers report some college experience.

The Master Internet Volunteer Program was developed by the University of Minnesota Extension Service and was adapted for use in North Dakota with permission. Copyright  © 2001  North Dakota State University. All rights reserved.

North Dakota State University Extension Service