
Understanding Volunteerism and Volunteer Practices
In Indonesia
Empatika was engaged by Indorelawan and Australian Volunteers to explore volunteerism practices from both volunteer and organizational perspectives. The findings will provide evidence to strengthen volunteer management and encourage the development of national volunteer programs and policies to support volunteerism within the government and other institutions.
Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combined quantitative surveys and qualitative data gathered from participatory Focus Group Discussions (pFGDs) and in-depth interviews. Survey data was collected from 425 volunteers across 30 provinces in Indonesia, while the pFGDs and interviews focused on volunteers and host organizations in Yogyakarta, East Java, Bali, and Greater Jakarta.
Some of the key insights included:
The majority of study participants indicated that their motivation to volunteer was driven by intrinsic factors, such as a desire to improve things or help people.
Most survey respondents were very or fairly satisfied with their volunteering experience. Factors contributing to this satisfaction included being useful, making a meaningful contribution to a cause, and having a positive impact through their volunteer activities.
Volunteers' perspectives on compensation were divided into those who feel that compensation or rewards are not necessary and those who feel that rewards, especially certificates, can help them get volunteer or other work opportunities.
Most respondents felt well supported by their host organizations and fellow volunteers and found recruitment simple. However, pFGD findings revealed that the lack of rigor in recruitment sometimes led to a lack of volunteer credibility and commitment, which could hinder team collaboration and support.
Volunteers' recommendations for making volunteering more attractive include organizations providing training, volunteer hubs, and mentoring for volunteers.


