Motivations to Volunteer: Factors that promote longevity

Qualitative data was obtained to better understand the motivations and experiences of volunteer counselors. The procedural method of this study utilized exploratory interviews of six volunteer counselors. The participants are non-professionals who are actively engaged in individual counseling of members of the community who don’t have insurance. Participants reflected on their motivations, experiences, and level of satisfaction with their service as a volunteer counselor. Results indicated high levels of satisfaction due to intrinsic motivations of the individual participants as well as organizational competencies in regards to training and supervision. The study highlights both intrinsic and extrinsic factors that can contribute to increased longevity and higher retention rates amongst volunteer counselors. Implications and limitations associated with the research are considered.