ABSTRACT
At some point for every social enterprise, making use of volunteers is likely a necessity. Haphazard programs create chaos for organizations and leave volunteers disenchanted. Well-designed programs choose volunteers selectively, train them well, and use their talents well. Last Mile Health uses a series of “accompaniers” to bring needed health services and vital health information to those in the poorest and remotest parts of Liberia. This process is a cornerstone of Partners in Health’s much acclaimed health delivery model, where trained community health workers supplement the care provided by terribly scarce physicians and other health-service providers. Volunteers create great value – or chaos – all depending on how they’re organized and managed. A well-run volunteer program enjoys its pick of applicants. At Polaris, 100–150 people might vie for just ten fellowship openings.
