A study examined types of and reasons for volunteering among Canadian adults over 64 (n=1,569) and compared them with those given by adults aged 45-64 (n=5,563). Results indicate that the older group volunteers out of self-interest and are more likely to volunteer because of a feeling of obligation and social value than those aged 45-64. (JOW)

Studied required and voluntary youth community service by high school students. Findings suggest that the two types of service can be viewed as operating according to separate regimens, but that both have potential benefits when service is viewed as providing the opportunity to learn through participatory action. (SLD)

Service learning has focused on elementary-secondary and higher education, but not older adults due to a lack of adult education program experience, resources, or interest. Programs such as Elderhostel, Senior Service Corps, Institutes for Learning in Retirement, and Life Options Centers show how elders can benefit from service learning. (Contains…

Responses from 20 of 22 Texas state government agencies using volunteers resulted in recommendations for volunteer management: standardize data collection, provide liability coverage, expand recognition programs, hire competent managers, support adequate infrastructure, replicate best practices, share best practices, encourage participation in…

In Britain, a Women's Aid program offers practical support and assistance to abused women. Survivors of domestic abuse can benefit from the opportunity afforded by an objective appraisal of the social context of their personal experiences, facilitated by trained volunteers. (JOW)

Explains that incorporation is one of the best ways for PTAs to protect their officers, volunteers, and staff from being personally responsible or liable for PTA debts and legal obligations while performing PTA business, describing what a corporation is, how a corporation is created, disadvantages to forming a corporation, and legal requirements.…

The article profiles five winners of Campus Compact: The Project for Public and Community Service. The project honors five undergraduate students each year for their efforts in addressing social needs in their communities. (DB)

Describes personal, social, and political factors contributing toward youth crime upsurge in China since 1960. Describes "Bang-Jab" youth delinquency rehabilitation approach which relies on community system of support to bolster youth's self-esteem and financial security. Argues that bang-jab volunteers understand conditions in their…

Describes a program developed by the Children's Aid Society of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, called Intergenerational Support System (ISS), in which senior volunteers serve as support persons for problem families. (SAK)

If their money and other assets are used effectively, voluntary organizations have an impact far beyond their proportionate size. The United States needs effective governments and a strong voluntary sector, but it will have neither if national leaders do not understand the differences in their functions. (Author/JOW)

According to focus groups with 4-H adult and teen volunteers in Ohio, teens felt the most effective adults had a sense of humor, flexibility, and open minds; adults felt effective teens were self-confident, motivated, respectful, and mature. Teens thought adults did not listen to or understand them. Adults seemed to expect adult-like behavior from…

The Columbus (Ohio) Public Schools, in cooperation with the Columbus Foundation and the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, developed a nonprofit, independently administered program (I Know I Can) to (1) encourage all students, especially the disadvantaged, to attend college; and (2) help them apply for college admission and financial aid. President…

Notes that number of surveys indicate rise in percentage of elders involved in volunteer work over past 25 years. Identifies cultural, demographic, and programmatic factors that have contributed to this increase. After describing some current policies and programs, identifies strategies for sustaining and expanding volunteerism by elders in the…

Compared effects of ombudsman programs on quality of nursing home care on random sample of 134 Medicare/Medicaid-certified long-term care facilities in Missouri. Found that presence of ombudsman program was most important factor associated with quality for intermediate-care facilities, and was significantly associated with quality for skilled…

Five European projects illustrate how older adults are volunteering as well as creating volunteer opportunities that enable them to contribute their considerable skills and energies to community service. (SK)