Volunteering is a central part of RMA culture. Our members typically log more than 15,000 volunteer hours each year, and many additional hours go unreported. At the Annual Banquet, members who have contributed 300 or more hours are inducted into the “300 Club.” At the last banquet, sixteen members were honored.

Our approach places special emphasis on team volunteering—members volunteering together rather than only individually. That fits the character of a social club. Volunteering together helps members get to know one another while supporting charitable organizations and helping the RMA flourish. At the same time, many members also volunteer individually for causes they care deeply about. 

Several years ago, as we sought to expand outside volunteer opportunities, we surveyed local organizations about their needs and asked members what they were looking for in volunteer work. We learned that the most effective way to generate interest is through member-to-member advocacy—hearing directly from fellow members about the organizations they support and the value they find in that work. To support that approach, we developed an Opportunities Book and created the role of Volunteer Advocate to help members explore opportunities and connect with the right people.

Chair: Will Morrison

The Chair identifies volunteer opportunities that are a good match for RMA members and looks for new ways to broaden member involvement. Particular attention is given to projects that lend themselves to group participation, allowing members to serve together while strengthening fellowship within the organization.