The debate over volunteering for free vs asking for a donation

I used to think you always volunteer for free no matter what, but then a local shelter told me they prefer when I ask for a small donation because it helps cover supplies they can't afford. On the flip side, a friend said free help builds trust and brings in more volunteers long-term. So which side do you lean toward in community help situations?

2 comments

2 Comments

wright.taylor20d ago

My buddy Ben helps at a pet shelter in Phoenix and he told me they had to turn away free help last month because they didn't have enough cleaning supplies for extra people. He said it was easier when someone offered to donate 20 bucks for a bag of kibble instead. Ngl, a specific ask seems more practical in the long run for places that are already stretched thin.

karen_hart20d agoMost Upvoted

Yeah but sometimes a specific ask just doesn't hit the same way as people wanting to give cash or stuff they already have.