By FirRescue1 staff
ATHENS, Ga. — A new study from the University of Georgia (UGA) links the decline in U.S. volunteering to economic challenges, particularly in disadvantaged communities. The research points to the 2008 recession and rising economic inequality as key drivers behind the drop in volunteerism, especially in rural areas that historically had higher rates of civic engagement.
Led by Rebecca Nesbit, a professor in UGA’s School of Public and International Affairs, the study used data from 56,000 U.S. households, revealing that economic conditions heavily influence volunteering rates.
“Historically, rural areas have had higher volunteering rates than urban ones,” Nesbit said. “These communities often have closer ties and more social interaction with each other, and those close ties may make them more likely to volunteer.”
The 2008 recession disrupted these close community ties, and volunteering rates have yet to recover. People living in economically disadvantaged areas were particularly affected, as they shifted their focus from volunteer work to income-producing activities to ensure financial stability.
Rebecca Nesbit, professor, UGA School of Public and International Affairs
The study found that regions with higher levels of economic inequality experienced the steepest declines in volunteering. In contrast, areas with stronger economic growth and more equal income distribution were more likely to see sustained or even increased volunteer activity.
Another factor contributing to the decline is demographic changes in rural communities. Younger generations are moving to cities, leaving behind an aging population and weakening the sense of community that once fueled volunteerism. These shifts, combined with lingering economic challenges, have had lasting effects on community engagement.
The researchers suggest that policymakers need to take a more comprehensive approach to revitalize volunteering rates.
“Policymakers need to understand that if we want to strengthen communities, particularly these rural communities, we need a more holistic approach,” Nesbit said. “It can’t just be about economic development, and it can’t just be about civic engagement. It has to be both.”
The study was published in Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly and co-authored by Laurie Paarlberg from Indiana University – Indianapolis and Suyeon Jo of the University of Arizona Tucson.
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