– by Ellen Matis
Living in a small town like Bellefonte has its charms—picturesque streets, rich history, and a strong sense of place. But behind every vibrant downtown lies the effort of countless volunteers who give their time to ensure that these qualities endure. Volunteering in your community isn’t just about giving back; it’s about investing in the future of your town. However, the reality is that volunteer burnout is becoming an increasingly significant issue, and it’s affecting more than just individuals—it’s impacting entire downtowns.
The heart of a thriving community
Volunteers are the lifeblood of small towns. They’re the ones organizing events, maintaining many public spaces, and driving the initiatives that make Bellefonte such a special place to live and visit. Their work supports local businesses, boosts tourism, and fosters a sense of pride among residents. Without this collective effort, many of the things we love about our downtown—like the seasonal festivals or community spaces—wouldn’t exist.
The ripple effects of volunteer burnout
But here’s the challenge: a small group of people often carries the bulk of this work. This over-reliance on a handful of volunteers leads to burnout, which can have far-reaching consequences. When key volunteers step away due to exhaustion, projects can stall, events may not happen, and the vibrancy of the downtown can diminish.
A recent Gallup poll found that volunteering has been in decline, with 56 percent of respondents saying they had volunteered in 2021. By comparison, that number was 65 percent in 2013 and 64 percent in 2017.
Burnout isn’t just a personal issue—it’s a community one. The effects ripple outward, making it harder to attract new volunteers who might view the workload as overwhelming or unsustainable. When fewer people get involved, the burden on the remaining volunteers grows, creating a cycle that’s tough to break.
How you can make a difference
The good news? There are ways we can all contribute to reducing burnout and building a stronger community:
Share the load
Even small commitments add up. Whether it’s helping out for a few hours at an event or joining a committee, your involvement helps lighten the burden for others.
Find a cause you’re passionate about
Whether you love history, art, gardening, or supporting local businesses, there’s likely a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your interests. Passion fuels commitment.
Encourage others to get involved. Talk to your friends, neighbors, and colleagues about the value of volunteering. Sometimes people just need an invitation to step up.
Support volunteers in other ways
Can’t volunteer? Support the work of those who do by attending events, donating to local causes, or simply expressing your gratitude for their efforts.
For Bellefonte to thrive, we need to foster a culture where volunteering is accessible and celebrated. If we each give a little, we can ensure that no one person has to give too much. By doing so, we not only preserve the heart of our downtown but also strengthen the bonds that make this town more than just a place to live—it makes it home.
So, take that first step. Attend a meeting, offer your time, or simply ask how you can help. Because when we all contribute, Bellefonte can truly shine.
