Evaluation of volunteer programs in non-profit organizations dedicated to urban river protection in the U.S. and China: The Huron River Watershed Council and The Protect Environment Together Association

Abstract

The Huron River Watershed Council (HWRC) in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and The Protect the Environment Together Association (PETA) in Beijing are two environmental nonprofit organizations in the USA and China that focus on environmental protection of urban rivers. Volunteers provide important support for these two organizations. Understanding the factors that bring volunteer satisfaction and the motivation of volunteers to keep participating is an important evaluation item for these and other nonprofit organizations. This study used 5-point Likert scale electronic surveys to assess critical factors that bring volunteer satisfaction and semi-structured interviews were used to understand the evolution of volunteers’ motivations to continue participating and to solicit suggestions to improve volunteer satisfaction. Volunteer responses from the two organizations were compared to identify the major similarities and differences in the two organizations' experiences with volunteers. Results show that protecting the environment is the main factor that brings satisfaction to volunteers, which is consistent with previous studies. Being able to provide help to the organization is another important factor. A good impression left by the first volunteering experience increases the chances that volunteers continue participating, and their motivation and source of satisfaction is enriched and enhanced with the number of times they participate. The closer social relationships with others and being valued are the main enriched aspects. HRWC is a well-established and run organization and been affirmed by their volunteers. They could maintain the current level of organization or potentially strengthen cooperation with college student clubs and developing more diverse marketing methods to expand volunteer engagement by youth. PETA is a newer organization, to raise the enthusiasm and efficiency of volunteers, they might consider increasing communication and interaction among volunteers, between volunteers and PETA personnel, and between volunteers and service objects (schools).