In a 1998 Fleishman-Hillard Research report to United Parcel Service concerning managing volunteers, data showed that most American adults volunteer. Some 76 percent reported that they have volunteered during their adult life. Sixty-four percent of young adults reported that they have volunteered. Prevailing research also reveals that Americans respect the value of volunteering and see it as more critical than it was five years ago. It's the way in which we ourselves grow and develop.
Volunteers are everywhere, many wishing to be anonymous.
They know that one can make a difference. They seek results rather than attention. They are stakeholders, identifying closely with a mission or cause, then choosing how and when to volunteer. Internationally, Americans rate favorably in number alongside volunteers of other countries. In a recent inquiry of Ball State alumni, respondents provided a diverse profile of 1990s volunteers which is consistent with national trends and research profiles.