Evaluation/Program Assessment

If you’re not familiar with the title of this article, it suggests that there are two types of people or even jobs – generalists and specialists. In looking at most professions, we see a mix of both. Yet when we look at Volunteer Engagement, we would argue that we only see generalists. 

I’m a lucky person.

Actually, let’s use the real word: I’m privileged! There are advantages and benefits that I enjoy for no other reason than because I am White. I’m not always aware of them – and I certainly haven’t always felt privileged. But I am.

I’m White, cis-gendered, and fully able-bodied. I know that my path, mostly because of things outside my control, has been amazingly smooth. For example, I’ve never been detained for hours at airport security just because of my skin colour. Friends of mine have.