Neglected volunteer managers. (Letters to the Editor).

Dear Editor:

I was delighted to read John McIlquham's Out on a Limb column in the March 2002 issue, entitled Payroll Roulette. Thank you for recognizing and acknowledging what many volunteer resources management professionals have struggled with for years -- the disconnect between the irreplaceable, essential work of a well-qualified manager in accomplishing the organization's mission and the value the organization assigns to that work as reflected in salary; organizational placement, and leadership support.

Volunteers are a significant resource for nonprofits to apply toward mission-related activities. And, like all resources, they must be managed competently in order to yield sustained and impactful results.

In spite of the inequity and lack of recognition of the value of their work, volunteer resources managers continue to develop their skills and strengthen the entire profession through involvement in local and international professional associations. Hopefully, your column will help the "powers that be" to understand that our profession provides essential management of volunteer programs in agencies and organizations; builds partnerships and collaborative networks in the community; and positions agencies and organizations for greater visibility and credibility in the community and with potential funders.

We look forward to continued work with our like-minded colleagues. We are confident that inclusion of volunteer resource management professionals in salary surveys and thoughtful analysis like yours will be the start of a change of thought and action that will correct this disconnect.

Sincerely,

Dennis J. Barnett

President

Association for Volunteer Administration Richmond, Va.