Thank you to those who responded to our GHP FISH Volunteer Survey. We had 88 volunteers take part. Volunteers responded from all areas,  which provides for an overall perspective.

Some of the information gathered:

• The years of service of the responding volunteers ranged from months to over 40 years. Over half of the respondents have volunteered for less than five years (74%), 13% have five to nine years of service and 13% have served over 10 years. The overwhelming reasons for volunteering involve the people of GHP FISH. Eighty-eight percent said the work they do with the clients fulfills their days, with close to 60% enjoying the other volunteers, followed by making a difference in the community (23%).

• Most of the respondents do not work (90%). Many volunteers serve at other organizations in the area.

• Responses about leadership were positive with 76% who think they are doing a good to great job, although there were a few questions about who GHP FISH leadership is. There were suggestions on ways to better support our team of volunteers through communication and input of ideas.  

• We asked our front line volunteers working directly with clients what items would they like to see. We had many responses about general grocery products that are requested, along with recommendations to increase the variety of fresh options and improve the quality of some of the products. There is some concern about the consistency of the clients’ experiences including the number of products provided to each client.

• Looks like GHP FISH communication team and staff are doing an excellent job keeping our volunteers informed. Most volunteers said they are knowledgeable about GHP FISH news and events, using Volunteer Talk (71%), FISHline newsletter (63%), and word of mouth (63%) as their main sources for information. Many use the Food Bank information board in the warehouse for the most current information. When they are unable to make a shift, 92% said they know who to contact.

• Several comments suggested more opportunities for volunteers to get together to improve contact with and amongst volunteers. The survey question about regular volunteer meetings had a positive response, with 62% saying they would attend.

• Seventy percent of our volunteers are NOT trained in first aid, CPR, or Narcan administration. Sixty-eight percent said they are interested in learning.

• Most (70%) know what items GHP FISH does not accept.

• One area the volunteers are not as familiar with is the Gig Harbor Food Project (aka “Green Bag Project”) with over half not knowing what it is. Is it because we use the nickname “Green Bag Project” internally?

• When asked about the expansion of services, 47%  of volunteers think being open on Tuesdays is a good idea, with a third saying they would be willing to work. Only a fourth of respondents think GHP FISH should be open on Saturdays, with 10% percent willing to work it. Delivery of food items to clients received 40% “yes” votes with 25% willing to make the deliveries. This information will be valuable as we plan.

• A suggestion to “liven up the place” with some music and pleasant scents would help make for a nicer experience.

  There were many wonderful suggestions and comments. Recommendations will be reviewed by the board and staff and used in planning as we look to improve our clients’ and volunteers’ experience at GHP FISH. We heard you and appreciate all the feedback received.

  We encourage ongoing feedback as we continue to provide the best possible service to our clients and make sure our volunteers are happy. We will keep you informed on progress, so keep checking out Volunteer Talk and the information board in the warehouse for updates.