The contribution of volunteerism to social development: the case of Zamdela community volunteers at Child Welfare South Africa, Sasolburg

Abstract

Volunteerism has been part of society for many years. It however seems to be underutilised. The study sought to explore the contributions of volunteerism to social development by the Child Welfare South Africa (CWSA) Sasolburg volunteers in Zamdela; an urban township in Sasolburg. The study used a qualitative approach and a case study design was adopted. The study population consisted of twelve volunteers working under CWSA, Sasolburg. A sample of ten volunteers was selected using purposive sampling. The study also used key informants consisting of social workers and a social auxiliary worker in the employ of CWSA Sasolburg who were considered as knowledgeable on the volunteering programme. A sample of three key informants was selected using purposive sampling. Semi structured interviews were used as the primary tool for data collection and an analysis of official documents related to the volunteer work at CWSA Sasolburg was used as a secondary tool for data collection. The data was analysed through thematic content analysis. The findings of the study indicated that the volunteers were contributing towards the attainment of social development in the Zamdela community in the areas of education, care and safety of children, food security and recreation mainly through its aftercare programme for orphaned and vulnerable children. CWSA Sasolburg and the Zamdela community show appreciation to the volunteers through verbal affirmations; awards; study opportunities and payment of stipends However, some challenges were being faced in the volunteering efforts such as lack of adequate capacity and poor communication by the CWSA management. A conclusion drawn from the study was that volunteerism contributes significantly towards social development; however to fully utilise it there is need to deal with the challenges faced in volunteering. The study’s main recommendation was that CWSA Sasolburg has to expand its fundraising efforts to fully utilise volunteerism as a resource for social development.