SIL Forum for Language Fieldwork 2008-012

Literacy specialists face so many demands that we often cry out for “day-stretchers” to get all of the work done in the given twenty-four hours. While not a panacea for all personnel shortages, volunteers can lighten the load—if you know some techniques for working with them. In this article, the author outlines some of the motivations for volunteering, some benefits and pitfalls, and some proactive steps to make that relationship mutually beneficial.