Elected Honorary Member: Benita Roos
Fired Up and Ready to Serve: Long-Time City Administration Employee Benita Roos Takes on New Volunteer Coordinator Role
Giving back to the community is an integral part of what makes society function. So, it's great to see that Neuwied's administration has a dedicated volunteer coordinator: Benita Roos has stepped up to the task starting December 1st, stationed right in the "Office of the Mayor" (BOB).
Mayor Jan Einig is excited about the addition of Roos to the team. "Benita Roos is well-known and respected in our administration. With her wealth of experience across various departments and tireless dedication, we're really happy to have her on board," he says enthusiastically.
As for Roos, who's been a part of the city administration since 1982, this new role presents an exciting opportunity she couldn't resist. "I just wanted a fresh challenge, something to keep me on my toes," she shares. Throughout her career, people have always been her focus—whether at the adult education center, the driving license office, or city marketing. Her tenure as the now-retired director of the "City Gallery in the former Mennonite Church" cemented her reputation as a dedicated and successful administrator.
A Helping Hand for Volunteers
As the new volunteer coordinator, Roos will be the go-to gal for all volunteers in Neuwied. She'll direct interested parties to the appropriate departments within and outside the administration, gather funding opportunities, and assist volunteers with useful tips and advice. "I want to make sure volunteer efforts don't go to waste," she emphasizes.
Another aim is to create a network and facilitate exchange among volunteers. "Recognition is crucial," Roos stresses. "Volunteers generously give their time for the betterment of others, and it's important that they're acknowledged for their kindness."
In addition, Roos is responsible for the operation of the new citizen bus of the city of Neuwied, staffed solely by volunteers. She'll oversee the team and address citizens’ queries. "The initial launch was a huge success, and I'm thrilled to continue lending my support to this fantastic project," she says.
"Volunteerism is significant to us," Mayor Einig summarizes. "With the right individual in this position, we're communicating our solid backing and appreciation for volunteers."
New Leader for City Gallery Found
A suitable replacement has been found for Benita Roos' previous position as director of the city gallery. The new appointee will begin duties on April 1st, with an official introduction to follow shortly. In the interim period, the gallery won't sit empty—after the highly successful "Three ????" exhibition, which Roos planned and executed, the exhibition "Beautiful Views. A Fresh Look at the Berninger Collection" will run from March 14th to May 4th.
Photo note: Mayor Jan Einig is thrilled to have recruited Benita Roos, a competent, passionate, and organized individual, to strengthen the volunteer sector in Neuwied. Picture credit: City of Neuwied / Ulf Steffenfauseweh
Volunteer Coordinator Role Breakdown
- Recruit, Welcome, and Train Volunteers
- Scout for new volunteers.
- Coordinate orientation programs and provide training sessions.
- Provide ongoing support to volunteers during their service.
- Manage Schedules, Document Volunteer Hours, and Submit Reports
- Organize volunteer assignments and schedules.
- Monitor volunteer hours, activities, and feedback.
- Deliver reports to the management team about the program’s effectiveness.
- Recognize and Retain Volunteers
- Express gratitude towards volunteers and acknowledge their contributions.
- Foster a positive and inclusive environment to encourage long-term commitment.
Vision for Neuwied Volunteer Engagement
- Grow and Diversify the Volunteer Base
- Broaden outreach efforts beyond the typical volunteer pool.
- Improve Volunteer Experience
- Regular check-ins and feedback sessions for ongoing support.
- Amplify Community Impact
- Align volunteer activities with pressing local needs and challenges.
- Establish Cross-Organizational Collaborations
- Join forces with other organizations and groups for joint projects.
- Share resources to enhance the overall volunteer experience.
- Empower Volunteers Through Learning Opportunities
- Offer training sessions, workshops, and leadership roles in the volunteer program.
- Benita Roos, now in her new role as volunteer coordinator, will be directing her efforts towards home-and-garden projects within the community, by recruiting, welcoming, and training volunteers to help with various city initiatives.
- As part of the vision for Neuwied's volunteer engagement, Benita Roos aims to grow and diversify the volunteer base by fostering cross-organizational collaborations that will empower volunteers with learning opportunities, benefitting both them and the lifestyle of the community at large.
