A definition of voluntarism

In our Park City community, volunteers come by the dozen. It seems it all started during the 2002 Olympics. Many of them came out of the woodwork to get free, first seats to the sporting events and also receive a free jacket and other “goodies” that were available. Since that time, volunteer opportunities have sprung out all over, from Film to Jazz Festival and other public events. Most of them are defined by the fact that there’s something tangible for the volunteer aside from the feeling of doing something good in favor of a certain cause. Last weekend, we attended the “Obama Camp,” a full day seminar detailing a plan on how to support the Democratic Candidate for President. It was long, detailed and really hard work. Participants left with tangible tools and a mission to either physically knock on doors or make telephone calls to convince all electors that were still sitting “on the fence.” What was in it for all of them: Just a strong belief that they all could change our nation for the better with a great deal of ideal, vision and selflessness. Now that’s true voluntarism.