Volunteer Q&A with Jackie Payne
USTA Texas is excited to offer new ways to volunteer with USTA Texas. For the 2021-22 term, there will be significant changes to the volunteer structure. We spoke with incoming President Jackie Payne about these changes and what you can expect.
Question: Why make the changes to the volunteer structure?
Jackie Payne: While it may seem as though these are significant changes, this is merely a more proactive approach to committee service and volunteer engagement. Prior to applying for service, a volunteer will understand the assignment as well as a possible time commitment needed for both the project team and/or as a local volunteer. For those who prefer helping at an event, this affords that viable opportunity to engage with peers and interact one-on-one with others.
Q: How does this change the role of a volunteer?
JP: Provides two avenues of service; individuals can easily select what best suits their interest in serving as well as their available time. If an individual is more inclined to provide hands on help, he/she will have that opportunity and likely for more than one occasion. We’re deviating from only the traditional meeting structure/service, after repeatedly hearing from volunteers they would thoroughly enjoy assisting at an event.
Q: What kind of committees (now project teams) will there be?
JP: The projects still align under what has been the more traditional/recognized areas. We’ll have specific tasks and objectives from adult to juniors, from community tennis associations to player experiences, from awards to diversity/inclusion, from social media to adaptive, and the list goes on.
Q: Can I be on more than one committee (project team)?
JP: Ideally, we’d prefer service on one project team coupled with possibly volunteering for a local experience, but you will have the opportunity to select up to two projects. To ensure we utilize as many individuals as possible, and because of the scope of projects, you may determine that serving on one project team might (or might not) tap out your available time.
Q: What if I want to just volunteer at events?
JP: That will be a great opportunity being offered in the future, when all activities “return to somewhat normal.” As events are planned and scheduled, you’ll receive emails about how you could help in your area. Stay tuned for these opportunities to become a RALLY Team member. In these roles, you will earn service hours and the more you “rally” - thus the more hours accumulated - you will be eligible for special USTA Texas gear.
RALLY TO SERVE HOMEPAGE
LIVE Q&A - FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 12:00PM
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