Emergency Volunteer Retention: Can a Culture of Inclusiveness Help?

we examined the effects of a climate of inclusiveness on volunteer retention. A survey of 512 emergency services volunteers revealed that an inclusive climate played a vital role for volunteer retention as it allowed volunteers to connect with each other and it gave them freedom to express themselves professionally. To a limited extent, female volunteers perceived lower levels of a climate of inclusion. However, in inclusive climates, women felt more connected with their teammates when their differences were integrated. Surprisingly, the female volunteers’ need to relate to others were less likely to be fulfilled in inclusive climates where they were included in the decision-making process