Community Leaders Gather to Boost Volunteerism
In an effort to invigorate volunteerism in the New Glarus community, representatives from over 20 organizations met at the New Glarus Village Hall on Saturday, April 13th to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding volunteer engagement.
Facilitated by Mary Funseth, a dedicated lifelong resident known for her involvement in various local boards and organizations, and hosted by New Glarus Cares, the gathering saw participation from non-profits, service organizations, government entities, and the New Glarus Chamber of Commerce. The meeting centered on developing new strategies to promote and sustain volunteerism across the community. The representatives from the multiple constituencies addressed a comprehensive agenda designed to spark actionable initiatives, including: identifying the root causes and barriers to volunteerism, brainstorming effective solutions, and crafting a measurable action plan. Participants engaged in lively discussions, sharing insights on both the successes and hurdles faced within their respective organizations.
The meeting commenced with the establishment of clear goals and objectives, with each organization committing to specific outcomes and measurable results. Subsequently, attendees delved into a deeper exploration of why individuals may be hesitant to volunteer, aiming to find practical solutions that will engage community members.
Reflecting on the event, Mary Funseth expressed optimism about the potential for collective impact, noting that community-wide collaboration is essential in fostering a culture of volunteerism. “The momentum generated during this gathering demonstrates a unified commitment to revitalizing community engagement through active volunteer participation.”
Looking ahead, participants identified next steps, including setting a timeline for follow-up. The group plans to reconvene to assess progress and adapt strategies. If you are associated with a New Glarus area organization that is interested in participating in these ongoing conversations but were unable to attend the initial meeting, or if you simply have questions about volunteer opportunities in New Glarus, you are encouraged to contact New Glarus Cares by emailing info@newglaruscares.com.
