Using the future search process for senior volunteer service in long-term care

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Community Development
• Organizational Behavior

Background:

• Societal infrastructures are rapidly changing, impacting economies and increasing at-risk populations.
• The volunteer sector faces growing demands for service delivery.
• Effective volunteer strategies are crucial for community support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the Future Search approach for goal achievement.
• To highlight its relevance for general and senior volunteerism.
• To present a case study on including older volunteers in long-term care.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Future Search approach, a peer-managed consensus model.
• Applied planning strategies to identify issues and directions for volunteerism.
• Examined the inclusion of older volunteers in long-term care settings.

Main Results:

• The Future Search approach facilitates consensus-building for common goals.
• Identified relevant planning strategies for volunteer organizations.
• Demonstrated practical application in integrating senior volunteers.

Conclusions:

• Consensus-building strategies like Future Search are vital for effective volunteer service.
• The approach offers a framework for organizations to determine future directions.
• Successful implementation can enhance the role and inclusion of senior volunteers.