Dr Bomark's work explores how broad societal shifts are reshaping why, how, and when people volunteer, and what this means for the future of volunteering. In today's more individual-focused culture, volunteering has become shorter-term, more episodic, and tailored to personal preferences and lifestyles, rather than driven by collective action. While some argue this trend should be reversed, Dr Bomark suggests the challenge is not to resist the change, but to understand it.
Drawing on sociological theory, Dr Bomark will show that while society evolves, the spirit of volunteering endures. History shows that people has adapted to social change before, and we can do it again. This session will make the case for an optimistic view of the future of volunteering and spark discussion about how the voluntary sector can respond.
This session is for anyone working with volunteers, studying community engagement or social sciences, or are simply curious about the future of volunteering.
🗓️ Date: 24th of September 2025, arrival after 4pm (in-person) for a 4.30pm start (In-person and online), 5.30pm close
📍 Location: Hybrid, In person at UHI Inverness Campus, tea and coffee from 4pm, online start 4.30pm prompt.
🎟️ Free to attend – all welcome!
The Highland Volunteer Academy is dedicated to sparking and nurturing a movement of engagement through volunteering, tailored to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century with our evolving and diverse communities. The Highland Volunteer Academy is operated by the Highland Third Sector Interface.
