Volunteer Identity and Identification in Cross-Sector Partnerships

Abstract

We contribute to the discussion of interactional volunteer management, by expanding its concepts through the lens of an individual’s volunteer identity and identification to a non-traditional voluntary organization called a cross-sector partnership (CSP). CSPs are formed to address complex social problems that cannot be addressed by a single sector in the community. Via in-depth interviews with members of two CSPs in midwestern United States, we explored how members identified volunteering identity manifested over time the influence of this identification process on their commitment to CSP goals. We found that individuals are ‘attracted’ to volunteer in CSPs because of their pre-existing identities. However, for these individuals to ‘engage and stay engaged’ in CSP’s activities, they needed to identify with their contributing actions as an input-giver, doer and leader. Also, retaining their commitment required continuous negotiation with the tensions they faced throughout the lifecycle of the CSP.