Keeping the Vision in Community Work: Insights from Prentis Hemphill’s What It Takes to Heal

Does it feel like a challenge, volunteering in community organisations? More and more, we are hearing about dramas and seeing disgruntled volunteers blaming each other and disengaging from the work. How do we address these challenges?

1. We need to ground ourselves in purpose. It is crucial to consistently return to the “why” behind the work – what is the core reason you chose this path? This vision can serve as a compass when the work becomes overwhelming.
2. Are you aware of your limitations and have done the work to heal these? Healing is the process, often lifelong, of restoring and reawakening the capacity for safety, belonging, and dignity. It can be hard to open up to this self reflection however this is essential if we are to achieve the change we want to see in society, via our community work.
3. Self-care and community care – the wellbeing of individuals in community organisations is directly linked to the sustainability of the organisations’ mission. Burnout and disillusionment can often arise when we disconnect from both ourselves and our communities. Regular reflection, connection to others and practising compassion are necessary steps to remain resilient.
4. Remember that it’s a marathon and not a sprint. Community organisations face systemic barriers but maintaining the long term vision – one that transcends immediate setbacks – is key. By staying true to the mission and nurturing both the individual and the collective, we can continue our work with clarity, purpose and resilience.

If you’re volunteering for a not for profit and could use some help to ground back into your purpose, contact Not For Profit House or check out our Volunteering Portal at nfphouse.org.au.

Happy volunteering!!

Lois from NFP House, where you can contact us anytime, to make a difference to your life and our community!