Researchers and managers report their experience and evidence

Independent Sector biennial surveys on the trends in private giving and volunteering show that the greatest predictor of whether a person gives or volunteers is whether or not they were asked. Another predictor is media attention about a particular volunteer opportunity. The Christmas surge may be explained in part due to the increased asking for help at this time and the increased media attention to volunteer activities at this time. To request a copy of the IS study of trends in private giving and volunteering, contact Independent Sector, 1828 L Street, NW Suite 1200, Washington, D.C. 20036

Aaron Heffron, Independent Sector

People give in part due to warm glow. The warm glow factor may be higher during the holiday season. For a copy of a paper on the warm glow effect, see Bill's web site (http://harbaugh.uoregon.edu/).

Bill Harbaugh, University of Oregon

The data does not exist. A 1974 American Volunteer Survey done during the Easter season may have captured Easter related volunteering.

Susan Chambre, Baruch College

Possible sources of information: Volunteer and Information Center that may exist in the city or state. the Points of Light Foundation, Washington, D.C. the Association of Volunteer Administrators the Independent Sector

Holly Kleinsasser, Aspen

Try to get numbers from volunteer action centers or from national organizations such as Salvation Army, Red Cross, or YMCA. The Volunteer Center in Houston saw larger surges at the beginning of the New Year (possibly due to New Years resolutions) and in the fall when schools go back to session.

 Lloyd Jacobson , Campus Outreach Opportunity League