When No is the Right Answer: Declining a Volunteer
One of the most frequent questions we hear from leaders of volunteers is how to decline a volunteer professionally and with kindness and we are always happy to share suggestions in response. However, I get concerned when I hear a variation of that question—one that goes like this, “Is it okay to decline a volunteer?” Usually, this inquiry is followed up in hushed tones with the explanation, “My leadership is not comfortable with us turning away any offer of help.”