Thanks to those who help lead

On Nov. 1, International Volunteer Manager Appreciation Day will be celebrated throughout the world. The annual event recognizes the efforts of the dedicated group of volunteer resources managers who are responsible for the coordination, support, training, administration, leadership and recruitment of the world’s volunteers.

Volunteer managers change lives — the lives of volunteers themselves and of those served by well-led volunteers. It is a life-changing profession.

Volunteer managers provide the leadership and direction that allow people to build a good and just society and to mend the social fabric. Without professional leadership, people’s time, talents and efforts could be wasted. A well-run volunteer program shows the community, including potential donors, that the organization is not afraid of public scrutiny and involvement and endeavors to make the most efficient use of monetary assets. Well-led volunteers become an advocacy and public relations force for an agency or program — a force no amount of money could buy.

So, Nov. 1 we pause to say “thank you” to all the Volunteer Resource Managers in our area who have dedicated themselves to making Snohomish County a better place to volunteer.

Wink Cushman