To reverse the decline in volunteerism in education, administrators must understand the difference between true volunteering and participation coerced under the guise of volunteering. Appreciation is essential for promoting volunteerism, for no one wishes to be considered without value. But if coercion and exploitation are part of the growing…

Robert Putnam's view of social capital considers the decline in volunteering as a crisis for democracy. However, data on volunteering in Australia from 1974-1997 indicate that there is likely to be a significant increase in total volunteer hours. Beyond the contribution to democratic society, the values implicit in volunteering increase the…

Describes a parent-volunteer student-support program (Time-In) for lonely and isolated students at Bret Harte Middle School, a 2001-2002 Blue Ribbon school in the San Jose (California) Unified School District. (PKP)

Compares two approaches to teaching reading to adults: the eclectic, research-based method of Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) and the phonics-based Laubach Literacy International. Concludes that LVA has the advantages of adaptability to student differences, a thorough evaluation system, and a superior published reading series. (SK)

Reports the results of an evaluation study of an English non-professional, school-based reading program called Volunteer Reading Help (VRH). Finds no significant VRH effect. Analysis shows many discrepancies between recommended VRH approach and the actual approach taken in practice. Calls for more professional help for the volunteers to improve…

Increasingly, college students are choosing to devote their spring breaks to volunteering in community services for the disadvantaged, through alternative spring-break programs administered or coordinated by colleges. Some intend to continue volunteer work after returning to campus. (MSE)

Attempted to classify convicted rapists, child molesters, and three different control groups, based on information from various assessment sources. Results indicated that behavioral measures combined with life history data could accurately classify subjects well above chance rates. Fairly accurate classification was obtained for three of five…

Provides survey findings from 54 adolescent hotlines, and presents an organizational case study of an existing peer listening phone program. A brief discussion of the role of professionals is also explored in relation to the use of adolescent volunteers. The case study suggests that volunteering is beneficial to both customers and adolescent…

Provides guidelines for successfully building parental involvement by fitting educational and classroom needs into parents' schedules and by carefully matching parents to classroom jobs to keep interest and involvement high. (ETB)

Reviews advantages and disadvantages of four extension delivery methods: partnerships, master volunteer programs, information centers, and regional programs. Concluded that the key is matching individual, community, and emerging needs with the right method. (SK)

Over 1,500 volunteers constructed a 10,000-square-foot playscape. The 5-day construction period was preceded by a year of planning and coordination by 10 volunteer committees, city officials, and the architectural firm. Organization and public relations kept the interest level high, resulting in increased community pride, spirit, and involvement.…

Argues that the economic trends of the past decade have led to the entrepreneurial nonprofit organization, with strengthened management, redesigned financial systems, revenue-producing ventures, and partnerships with the corporate world. Successful strategies used to meet the challenges faced by nonprofit organizations, including libraries, are…

Older adults contribute to society through volunteer work, informal assistance, paid work, and self-care. Both individual and societal aging could benefit from increased productive participation of older persons, but institutions must provide more flexible options for them. (SK)

Argues the importance of academically based community service programs to provide additional incentive for student participation. Contends that interest and cooperation of faculty must be encouraged to develop such programs (Author/NB)

Reviews progress in the establishment of a nonprofit preschool at an orphanage in Bucharest, Romania. Topics include recruitment of volunteers, collection of supplies, integration of neighborhood and orphanage children, the use of Piaget's learning-through-play philosophy, children's responses, staff training, and current activities. (AC)