<p>A couple years ago I started a community arts organization. I invited a number of people to participate, including one woman who is a music teacher and a performer. She has been very generous with her time and has donated to the group. However, she has a very negative attitude and no one wants her in a leadership position. She also has ruined her voice so we cannot offer the type of performing opportunity she would like. She complains that our meeting location is too far away and says she will not be able to get there on time. Today she emailed me asking what I want her to do on our next project. She will complain no matter what I say. Any advice?</p>
<p>When I interview prospective volunteers I always tell them, " Volunteering is a two way street - not only should you be right for our program, but our program should be right for you". The other thing I tell them right off the bat - “the great thing about volunteering is that it gives you the opportunity to focus on one thing for as long as you like - and then move onto something else when the time feels right”. </p>
<p>Sounds like this volunteer is no longer “right” for your program. And I would have to wonder if she is truly getting the satisfaction out of volunteering as she did at the beginning. </p>
<p>Time for a heart to heart about what your needs and expectations are for volunteers right now (with her). You are not obligated to keep someone on who is not beneficial to your program.</p>
<p>The above sounds like a delightful way to ease her out. Use the “right for you” approach in discussing issues even though you also have “right for the program” issues. You might want to say things to indicate she should think of herself. Whatever you do, do not feel you need to take her or feel guilty for not.</p>