Fortunately the two aren't mutually exclusive. You can help others and benefit yourself by volunteering with the Virginia Bass Federation--and have fun while you do it.

Sustaining the Organization

Club members may ask themselves why they would want to be club president when all the president gets is a headache. Why drive to regional meetings when you could be at home watching TV or working on fishing gear? Why spend time at a youth event when you could be practicing for your next tournament?

The most basic answer is that, without volunteers, Virginia Bass Federation wouldn't exist. Virginia Bass Federation is made up of mostly volunteers. The only paid individual is Ann Dalton, our secretary. Without the work of many volunteers, Virginia Bass Federation would fold.

So, every time you enjoy a Virginia Bass Federation event or publication, you owe it to a volunteer. Everybody takes a turn helping out, and we all enjoy the benefits. If you haven't yet volunteered, it may be time to think about how you'd like to get involved. It's your turn!

Benefiting Yourself

In addition to what you contribute to our fishing community, volunteering also has benefits for you, personally. I recently asked myself why I volunteer my time to the Virginia Bass Federation website when I could be doing something else. Here's what I came up with:

• I wanted to focus on a personal accomplishment. I also wanted to advance my hobby (or should I say my obsession) and the public’s perception of bass fisherman.
• I wanted to get to know other federation members outside of my club. Volunteering allows you to meet people and make new friends.
• I wanted to get more experience in something that interests me (Web page design).

In addition, I've benefited from working with a great group of individuals including Dave Ochs, Pete Robbins, and many others who help me with the web site directly and indirectly.

How to Volunteer

Almost every club has a president, treasurer, tournament director and some have a secretary. Virginia Bass Federation is no exception. So, how do you choose from among all these roles?

• Pick a job that meets your needs and will not take more time then you think you can give.
• Talk to someone who has done the volunteer job you're considering. Make sure you have a clear idea of what is involved rather than what you perceive is involved.
• Don’t be afraid of making mistakes! We have all do from time to time--it's embarrassing, but not fatal. Many people are reluctant to volunteer because of fear. Give it a chance and tread slowly if you need to. You will be surprised how people come to your aid when you volunteer.

Just think of the great feeling you will have helping out in some way rather than just showing up for a tournament every week.

Fear of the Downsides

Not all volunteer activity is enjoyable or fulfilling. If you are a tournament director and you make a controversial ruling, there may be people who second guess your decision. You might feel like walking away rather than deal with people's hard feelings.

Despite the possible downsides, volunteering can be very satisfying. When you know that, because of your efforts, a tournament blast-off went smoothly; the weigh-in didn't have a hitch; or a young person became involved with fishing, it's a very satisfying feeling. And when someone comes up to say how much they appreciated what you were doing, you know you won.

Conclusion

Most organizations consist of leaders, active volunteers, occasional volunteers, observer and possibly complainers who never volunteer. I know Virginia Bass Federation, and I believe most of our members want to contribute in some way.

Volunteers get the chance to “make a difference,” to be creative and self-expressive. Volunteers get fulfillment and challenges outside of their “normal” job. Give it a try--you won't be sorry!