A Study of Volunteerism in Irish Credit Unions and Social Enterprises

Authors: Noreen Byrne, Olive McCarthy & Mary O’Shaughnessy, 2004, 110 pages

ISBN: 0 946503 34 6

Price: €7

The issue of volunteerism is one which attracts much discussion and debate. Recruiting and retaining an adequate level of competent volunteers is often a key concern of all types of voluntary organisation, including credit unions and other forms of social enterprise, which seek to address a wide range of social and economic needs. This study documents the role played by volunteers in credit unions and other forms of social enterprise in Ireland, examining the profile of the typical volunteer, exploring the motivations of the volunteer and the costs/benefits of volunteering, and considering the types of support needed. This executive summary outlines the major findings of this research, together with a synopsis of the main literature around the issues.