Recognition, Social Connection, and Volunteer Role Identity Among American Red Cross Youth Volunteers

Abstract

Among the several factors that contribute to long-term engagement in volunteerism, volunteer role identity is critical for volunteer-dependent public health organizations that require sustained commitment. However, this theory has not been widely explored among youth volunteers, leaving the factors influencing their long-term engagement relatively unexplored. To address this gap, a survey was administered (n = 53) to high school volunteers of the American Red Cross across the Greater New York region. Of 909 invited participants, 53 responded (response rate: 5.8%). Several factors influencing engagement were identified and tested for correlations. The results revealed that recognition of contributions (r = 0.580; p < .001) and opportunities for social connection (r = 0.701; p < .001) are positively associated with identity centrality and sense of purpose. Recognition and social connection jointly explained 54.3% of the variance in identity centrality, F(2, 50) = 29.76, p < .001. Both recognition (β = .278, 95% CI [.044, .511], p = .021) and social connection (β = .654, 95% CI [.378, .930], p < .001) were independently associated with identity centrality. Limitations include the low response rate, small regional sample, single-item outcome, non-normal regression residuals, and common-method bias. In conclusion, public health organizations that seek to increase the engagement of youth volunteers may consider incorporating recognition, social events, and meaningful events.