Every second citizen calls for more recognition for voluntary work

Result

Volunteering plays an important role in our society. Around one in four people volunteer regularly - at least once a month - in clubs or charitable organisations, in hospitals or retirement homes, in the neighbourhood or in political parties, for environmental protection projects or the church. The under-30s are particularly active, with one in three of them volunteering. In the older age groups, this figure drops to around one in five.

When it comes to the question of whether volunteers receive enough recognition, the population is divided. Almost every second German citizen is of the opinion that this is not the case. Those who have done the least amount of voluntary work so far are particularly in favour: The over 30s and over 65s. In contrast, only one in three people under the age of 30 believe that volunteers receive too little praise and recognition. Gender, location and income, on the other hand, play only a minor role in the perception of the need for recognition.

Reasons

There are various reasons why many citizens would like to see more recognition for voluntary work. One of the most important is the appreciation of the work they do. Volunteers invest time and energy to help others, promote social projects or simply to do something good. They do not receive any money for this - but they should be recognised and thanked.

In addition, greater public recognition could help to raise awareness of volunteering as a whole and inspire more citizens to take up voluntary work as well. Recognition in the private sphere can also be an important personal motivation for many German citizens to continue their commitment and continue to give their best.
The differences between the views of younger and older people are complex. It is striking that the higher the level of commitment, the less important recognition becomes. Their own inner feelings and individual satisfaction are rated as more important than external praise. Statements such as "it's good to be needed", "it's really fun", "broadens my own life experience", "helps me stay grounded" or the emphasis on the community as well as the opportunities for exchange and networking confirm this.

Forecast

Volunteering makes an indispensable contribution to the common good in Germany. More people could be motivated to volunteer and thus exert a positive influence on our society if they were properly recognised. It is therefore important to raise awareness of the importance of this commitment in society and to recognise the work of those involved appropriately.

The age differences in the perception of the need for recognition show how important it is to respond to the different needs of the generations. While external recognition is of great importance to many older people, younger people often find it more important to be more involved in decision-making processes or to realise their own ideas and visions. They experience recognition and affirmation in other areas of their lives. In the future, it will be more important for them to change the image of volunteering. This starts with the term: appealing to honour is not very appealing to many teenagers and young adults. They want to do something meaningful and have fun at the same time.