Multifaceted volunteering: The volunteering experience in the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in light of volunteering styles

The goal of the present study was to investigate differences in the volunteering experience during the COVID-19 pandemic according to three volunteering styles: traditional volunteering that takes place mainly face-to-face, virtual volunteering that occurs through digital means and hybrid volunteering that combines virtual and traditional volunteering. The research sample included 657 volunteers during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Four aspects of the volunteering experience were tested: the motivational, the affective, the cognitive and the behavioral. The experience of the hybrid volunteers was more positive in some aspects compared to the others: hybrid volunteers are motivated more by social solidarity, feel that they make a greater contribution to the community, and exhibit greater commitment to volunteer. However, they are less satisfied than the others from the professional accompaniment during their volunteering and experience higher levels of negative affect. The virtual volunteers exhibit relatively low commitment to volunteering and are less satisfied with the feedback they receive from the clients. The content of the special moments of the traditional and hybrid volunteers is usually emotional and focuses on the self, whereas the special moments for the virtual volunteers are purposeful and focused on the client. It is recommended to hold explanatory activities for clients that will encourage expression of thankfulness to the volunteers. Communication channels should be developed in order to afford constant feedback to the virtual volunteers via the digital means by which it takes place. Adaptation of the volunteering styles to the volunteers’ needs and to their technological abilities will ensure commitment to volunteer over time for the benefit of the volunteers and their clients.