Miles per gallon, parts per million, cost per kilowatt hour – these are terms of measurement we have heard before. They are concrete terms that measure very specific things.

What intrigues me though are those concepts that are difficult to measure…How do you measure compassion? What unit of measurement do we use to quantify appreciation? What about empathy? 

I find myself using terms like oodles. Uber.  A whole bunch. Lots and Lots! There are some things that are difficult to put a finite value on.

These ideas remind me of the MasterCard commercials – you know the ones. Candlelight Dinner for two: $90. One Carat diamond engagement ring: $2500. The perfect proposal: Priceless!

While reading an article the other day, I came across an interesting value. According to the Independent Sector, the current estimated dollar value of volunteer time is $20.25 per hour. The article said that the value of volunteer time is based on the average hourly earnings of all production and nonsupervisory workers on private nonfarm payrolls (as determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics). Independent Sector takes this figure and increases it by 12 percent to estimate for fringe benefits.

The estimate helps acknowledge the millions of individuals who dedicate their time, talents, and energy to making a difference. And then agencies (like the Red Cross) can use this estimate to quantify the enormous value volunteers provide.

Interesting process.

So, as we celebrate Red Cross month, I also celebrate our volunteers. A bunch. They are truly a valuable resource!

Becky

Becky White is the Disaster Specialist for The American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter.