Holly volunteered with us as a data analyst intern and then was brought back as an employee to help with the recent release of the 2022 Census data. Here she talks about why data and its analysis can help us know more about volunteering.
Volunteering plays an essential role in Irish society, whether by contributing to community development or fostering a sense of solidarity among its citizens. To truly understand the impact and dynamics of volunteering across the country, it is critical to harness the power of data. Data on volunteering provides valuable insights into successful initiatives, areas that require improvement, and the demographic patterns of engagement, which in turn reveal the nature of the volunteering landscape in Ireland.
One of the primary benefits of utilising data in the context of volunteering is that it allows us to gauge whether various initiatives are likely to be effective or not. By analysing the data on volunteer engagement and participation rates across the country, we can assess the success of different programs, campaigns, and other areas of focus. These successful volunteering efforts can then be replicated and expanded, helping to ensure that time and resources are allocated efficiently. Conversely, areas with lower engagement levels can be identified, prompting organisations like Volunteer Ireland to target strategic planning to improve volunteer engagement.
Data on the volunteers themselves allows for a comprehensive demographic analysis, shedding light on which individuals are more or less likely to engage in volunteering activities. Understanding the demographics of volunteers across the country provides valuable insights into the factors influencing participation, such as age, gender, socio-economic status, and more. This information can be instrumental in tailoring volunteer programs to be more inclusive and accessible, addressing potential barriers that may hinder certain individuals from volunteering.
From our analysis of the 2022 Census, for example, the volunteering data revealed patterns indicating higher engagement among certain age groups and administrative counties. Using this information, Volunteer Ireland can develop targeted strategies to encourage participation across all regions and demographics, fostering a more inclusive and diverse volunteering landscape.
Curious about what the stats say? Check out our preliminary reporting here and stay tuned for more as we continue analysing!
