Beyond Competencies

October 2001

In the mid-1970s, the Association for Volunteer Administration embarked on a revision of its professional credentialing program. AVA selected a performance-based system, based on a core group of competencies deemed essential for the effective administration of volunteer programs. At the recent international conference in Toronto, Canada, Sarah Jane Rehnborg - the system developer - offered her reflections on the competency-based credentialing format. This article is based on her presentation, which includes an important call to recognize that "our work is steeped in purpose and energized by passion."

To read the full article

From the Author

Mon, 01/14/2002

I would like to thank those of you who took the time to comment on my comments! It is helpful to gather your feedback. I do want to share with Tom, that I am a proponent of credentials -- I've spent a fair amount of time gathering my own, but I am weary of our efforts to continue to refine competencies when perhaps the real issue with the AVA credential was more about process than substance. In any event, one rationale for credentials has to do with defining ourselves so that others, who know less about us, don't believe that it is there prerogative to do so for us. Also, I do believe that most employers want to know that you are doing the best you can do to be the best at what you do. A professional credential demonstrates your commitment to your profession, and your occupation. This said, however, I remain committed to my comments in the journal. It is time that we look to broader horizons and think about why we do what we do, not just how we go about doing it.

Beyond Competencies

From the Author

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