Do you work with interns at your agency? Here Stephen G. Donshik talks about how  internships can be beneficial for both the intern and the organization in which they are placed.

Data has been released from the latest report on Volunteering and Civic Life in America sponsored by the Corporation for National and Community Service showing that Americans significantly increased their commitment to volunteering and civic engagement in 2011, with the national volunteer rate reaching a five-year high. 

And not to forget the Canadians ...
I'm not aware of any newly released reports, but here are some resources for data on Canadian volunteers. There is an interesting contrast in who the volunteers are in Canada vs. the United States.
Bridging the Gap: Enriching the Volunteer Experience to Build a Better Future
2010 Canada Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating      

In The Audacity of Accountability, social business strategist Amber Naslund talks about what  separates change-makers from the rest of the pack.  Not the most gently put argument - but important all-the-same.

 

The Emerging Leaders at JFS: Service, Leadership, and Philanthropy
Emerging Leaders at JFS brings together young socially-minded Jewish professionals to support the many programs and services of Jewish Family Service of San Diego. Members contribute creative problem solving and professional skills to support the work of Jewish Family Service and enhance their own professional experiences. By taking responsibility for the social issues affecting the community, and empowering each other to make a difference, Emerging Leaders is leading JFS San Diego into the future.

This group has been incredibly effective in engaging young professionals with JFS by getting them involved in volunteering, and by adding them to the Board of Directors. Since its inception 3 years ago, this group has placed three of its members on the Board. All three individuals are under 40, and come from various backgrounds in law, business, and environmental work. By volunteering in programs at JFS, the program offer a hands on way for folks to see the work that JFS does, and to make an impact with their time. JFS offers leadership development by connecting young professionals with those who have already established themselves as pillars in the community. Lastly, young professionals learn about the importance of philanthropy. Given the relationship they have with JFS through the other two pillars of this program, philanthropy is a natural next step.

By engaging young professionals through the Emerging Leaders program, JFS is committed to a diverse Board, with perspectives from all ages. The Emerging Leaders offers the perfect outlet for young professionals to be engaged in the community by giving their unique skill sets JFS.

For more information on Emerging Leaders at JFS San Diego, contact Ashley Harrington at 858-637-3051.

Repair the World staff Amy Goldsmith gives a short and thoughtful review of Powered by Pro Bono, a new book from the Taproot Foundation. Powered by Pro Bono provides nonprofit organizations with the tools to both generate and manage hundreds of thousands of dollars in pro bono services. Check out the article on Repair Labs and start thinking about how you might better engage professional volunteers today.