An analysis of 4-H volunteer expectancies and outcomes in relation to motivation and turnover

The study gathered information about the motivation of 4-H volunteers. Specifically, it was an effort to examine the valences of a variety of outcomes of volunteering; study motivation in relation to longevity and projected discontinuance; and test the value of a complete model of motivation. Using an instrument based on Vroom's Expectancy Theory of Work Motivation, a stratified random sample of 760 4-H volunteers in Nebraska counties were surveyed. Sixty-five percent responded to a mailed questionnaire. Results suggested that the most valued outcomes of 4-H volunteering are affiliative in nature. The highest rated outcome is the opportunity to be with family or children. Least valued outcomes included costs of time and money, and opportunities to advance in the organization. Motivation was shown to be predictive of projected discontinuance. Hypotheses associating expectancy model components with longevity were not supported.