The Development of a Volunteer System: A Reflection from the “Bann Nonthapoom Bann Haeng Khamsuk” Project Evaluation

Abstract

          This article aimed at proposing an approach to develop a volunteer system. A reflection was from the assessment of a volunteer development project, the “Baan Nonthapoom Baan Haeng Khamsuk” project. The findings revealed that the project accomplishment level depended upon four crucial conditions: firstly, the construction of shared understandings and purposes of all involving in the project implementation; secondly, the establishment of an effective volunteer database; thirdly, the creation of a space to facilitate cooperation, learning and working skill improvement of concerned parties; and fourthly the seeking of a cooperation to obtain consecutive supports. Nevertheless, the formation of the said conditions may not be based on the set up of a framework for activities, elements or written assigned duties. Rather, it could be established from the process of constructing relationships among those involved in the project for the emergence of a mutual learning process in the project implementation, the appreciation of each potential member, the value of team work and collaboration, appropriate leader-follower role taking as well as conjoint problem solving. Thus, it would make possible of a strong sustainable volunteer system formation which would bring about genuine happiness to everyone in “Baan Nonthapoom”, which is a home for happiness.