“It is in giving that we receive.” —St. Francis of Assisi
As leaders, we are givers by nature. We are among the first to raise our hand, help a colleague or a friend. In fact, ACHE’s own core values articulate our profession’s commitment to lead through example while recognizing that caring must be a cornerstone of our interactions.
Roughly 76 million people formally volunteered their services in 2023, not counting the informal acts of service that happen every day, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and AmeriCorps.
We are fortunate to be the beneficiaries of this generosity, with the support of more than 3 million community volunteers at hospitals and healthcare organizations—who are the everyday heroes—helping at the grassroots level and making a positive impact. Research shows that the contributions of community health volunteers are linked to improved outcomes, care team productivity and reduced costs.
This demonstrates what we as leaders innately know: that volunteering is more than a generous act; it is a strategic imperative for organizations and individuals.
Volunteerism Builds Engagement
Volunteering can be a force for organization and team engagement. A study by Deloitte found that 89% of employees who volunteer through company-sponsored programs report greater job satisfaction, and 76% say it made them feel healthier.
Such structure doesn’t require a large budget, but it does necessitate intentional design and leadership support. By creating volunteer opportunities for people to lead from where they are, organizations foster teamwork and satisfaction while reinforcing a culture of service.
Personally Giving Back Elevates Everyone
In a field as dynamic as healthcare, no one can succeed alone, and I am consistently inspired by how many of you who volunteer your time, especially as mentors, coaches and sounding boards.The rewards of such work are deeply personal, but they also translate into greater impact. Research from the National Mentoring Partnership reveals that mentored professionals are five times more likely to be promoted, and 89% of those who are mentored go on to mentor others.
Moreover, according to a study in the Leadership & Organization Development Journal, volunteering improves emotional intelligence, communication, and conflict management—all essential for healthcare leaders navigating today’s complexities. By cementing a culture of giving back by personally setting the example and by fostering in others a desire to volunteer, everyone wins.
Strengthen Community Through Reciprocal Giving
Finally, at a time when many feel anxious and possibly disconnected, communities matter more than ever.ACHE chapters across the country are vital hubs for connection, collaboration and shared purpose. They are powered almost entirely by volunteers who generously give their time to bring education, networking and fellowship to local members. Each of you and all of you have helped to make ACHE stronger than ever.
All of this is a reminder that volunteering is an avenue to create something greater than ourselves. Though we may face resource limitations, our capacity for generosity, leadership and connection is boundless. Volunteering helps to light a path forward.
I offer my sincerest gratitude for all you do in service to others and your countless acts of kindness.
Deborah J. Bowen, FACHE, CAE, is president and CEO of the American College of Healthcare Executives (dbowen@ache.org).