The question is, worthwhile to whom? Typically volunteers are able to give only a small amount of time to the church. Their hearts may be with you, but they also have pressing responsibilities at their homes and jobs, so, many times, volunteers over-promise and cannot give as much time as they would like.

Each store must create its own philosophy concerning the use of volunteers. A staff member must be designated to manage the volunteers and keep a training schedule. Volunteers need to feel comfortable with their assigned duties, so you must make the time for training.

The length of time that a volunteer can serve depends upon his or her ability and your need. Don't sell them short in their usefulness. If volunteers are trained and you are prepared, one volunteer for one hour a week can be very productive, while four untrained volunteers who give four hours each week in which you are not prepared can be a futile time of "baby-sitting."

Making volunteers' time worthwhile is the responsibility of the leadership, so consider carefully when you accept or recruit volunteers for your store.

Got a question for Betty Bookstore? Write to her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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