We’ve all heard the phrase: “Volunteers aren’t paid, not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless.”

It’s a beautiful sentiment - perfect for a greeting card.

But lately, I’ve been thinking about the gap between that quote and the reality on the ground.

As someone who runs a communications business and also volunteers across several organisations, I’ve seen behind the curtain of our not-for-profit world. And here’s the uncomfortable truth:

Many organisations are treating their most valuable asset (people) with a level of neglect that would bankrupt a private business.

The “Employee” mindset we’re missing

There’s a common misconception that because no money changes hands, the normal rules of management don’t apply.

They absolutely do.

While volunteers don’t receive a paycheck, they should be treated with the same professional clarity and respect as employees.

That means:

Clarity of Role

• They need to know exactly what’s expected of them — not just “help out where you can.”

Consistent Support

• They shouldn’t be left to “figure it out” because they’re doing it for free.

Safety and Standards

• The same culture, communication, and protection rules apply. Always.

If your organisation would never treat a paid staff member a certain way, why is it acceptable for a volunteer?

The Christmas Silence

Let’s address the elephant in the room: gratitude.

This past holiday season, I sat back and waited. I volunteer professional-level hours for multiple organisations.

The result?

Silence.

Not a text.

Not a “Happy Holidays” email.

Certainly not a small token of appreciation.

In the corporate world, we have Christmas functions, bonuses, or at the very least a card from the CEO. In the volunteer world? Often just a “see you in January.”

When an organisation receives thousands of hours of free labour, failing to acknowledge that contribution isn’t just a social oversight.

It’s bad leadership.

Why the Well is Running Dry

Everywhere I turn, I hear the same concern:

“It’s so hard to find volunteers these days.”

Before we blame busy schedules or “the younger generation,” we need to look in the mirror.

If you treat people like they are disposable because they are free, eventually they will dispose of the commitment.

People volunteer to make a difference. They stay because they feel seen, supported and valued.

If the only time a volunteer hears from you is when you need a shift filled, you’re not building community, you’re managing a transaction.

And transactions don’t build loyalty.

The Bottom Line

Volunteers are not “extra.” They are infrastructure.

If we want strong clubs, boards, community trusts and events in Central Otago, we need to treat our volunteers with the same professionalism we expect in our businesses.

A little gratitude goes a long way.

But a total lack of it goes even further, straight out the door.

Let’s do better.

If you’d like my “Volunteer Value” Checklist - a simple audit to see whether your organisation is truly supporting its volunteer team - click here and I’ll send it to you free of charge.

All I ask is that you acknowledge the free support and say thanks.

Because appreciation?

It costs nothing, and it changes everything.