| Non-paid leaders are those individuals in leadership positions in volunteer organizations who seek to inspire members to achieve organizational goals. With the increased need for volunteer organizations in many social areas, there has been a corresponding increase in the need for non-paid leaders to maintain viable programs. Academic and research attention to volunteerism in general and volunteer leaders in particular, however, has been limited. Minimal attention and research has explored the leadership characteristics of the non-paid leader. Such study and findings are necessary to identify not only the kinds of leaders needed, but also the training materials for their further development. Interviews with a non-paid leader, an at-large board member, and the organization's executive director in each of four non-profit organizations were conducted to begin to identify non-paid leader characteristics. Participants in this study emphasized the need for non-paid leaders to communicate successfully in terms of involvement, understanding, kindness, and support. Important characteristics and behaviors for successful non-paid leaders included offering organizational support, understanding the roles of the various organizational members, being accessible and visible, and attracting resources. The net result is a fuller and more detailed profile of the non-paid leader that can serve as a unique model for the leadership of volunteer organizations. |
