In reflecting on a phrase that often surfaces among Rotarians, “we are all volunteers,” I discovered something surprising: there is no formal Rotary research that supports, encourages, or even examines this expression. Yet it shows up often, especially in moments of stress or misunderstanding. Many of us have heard it, and surely, some have felt it bubble in their own throat.
During a recent experience while spearheading one of our cherished
traditions, the District Picnic, I found myself on the unpleasant
“receiving end.” In the middle of the whirlwind, responsibilities
flying, emotions running high, it landed with more weight than I imagined. So, in true form, I looked beyond Rotary and into organizational psychology, volunteer‑management studies, and nonprofit behavior research. What I found was both enlightening and deeply relevant to how we communicate as leaders, fellow Rotarians, and pillars of our community.
The research shows, across multiple fields, the conclusion is the same: “We are all volunteers” is a defensive coping mechanism. It is a phrase people use to avoid accountability, deflect conflict, and reduce interpersonal discomfort when they feel confronted or overwhelmed.
Volunteer‑management research reveals that volunteers often shy away from direct confrontation because:
They fear harsh judgment for their mistakes
They worry conflict will damage relationships in Rotary
They feel criticism threatens their sense of contribution and belonging
Nonprofit psychology calls this volunteer role‑protection, a pattern where volunteers use moral or emotional language to shield themselves from accountability. Behavioral ethics research adds (my personal favorite) another layer: moral licensing, the belief that doing charitable deeds earns “credit” that excuses deficient performance or missed commitments.
In Rotary, this can sound like: “You can’t hold me to a professional standard because I’m doing this out of goodwill.”
This is not Rotary policy — it is simply human nature.
Rotary places a high value on harmony, goodwill, and fellowship. When conflict arises, members often reach for language that restores peace rather than addresses the issue directly. “We are all volunteers” becomes a gentle way of saying:
“Let’s not escalate this; let’s keep things friendly”
The intention is positive, but the impact can be harmful. Research shows that relying on this phrase leads to:
Lower performance standards
Repeated mistakes
Burnout among high‑performing volunteers
Toxic positivity
Avoidance of real problem‑solving
Frustration among leaders who do uphold standards
It creates a culture where accountability becomes optional, which is the opposite of Rotary’s professional ethos. Rotary’s own materials emphasize:
People of Action — members who take responsibility and deliver results
Create Lasting Impact — accountability for outcomes, not excuses
The Four‑Way Test — truth, fairness, goodwill, and benefit to all concerned
None of these principles support using “we are all volunteers” to avoid responsibility.
Why the phrase persists:
Emotionally protective
Socially convenient
Culturally reinforced
A quick escape hatch from discomfort
A way to avoid responsibility and accountability without appearing confrontational
But despite its comfort, it does not align with Rotary values, and research shows it weakens organizational effectiveness.
Looking ahead,understanding the roots of this phrase gives us an opportunity to grow. Accountability is not harsh, it is caring, consistent, and deeply aligned with Rotary’s mission. When we hold one another to our commitments, we strengthen trust, reliability, and the impact of our service.
As Rotarians, we can choose language that supports both kindness and responsibility. We can build a culture where expectations are clear, communication is honest, and every member feels valued enough to rise to the occasion.
Yours in Rotary Service,
Andrea Amor
New Member Spotlight
This month we welcome three outstanding community pillars to Rotary Club of Downtown Los Angeles
Justin Walker Gabriela Muñoz Marilee Walker
Relations Associate Teacher - Early Childhood Development. Public speaker, author, and two time grammy nominee - songwriter/producer.
Professional services such as divorce, child custody, child support, and immigration document preparation, translations, and a wide range of legal document services.
Healthcare, technology, and nonprofit organizations Executive Assistant.
A-Man STEM Program, contributes to youth education through executive coordination, donor engagement, and event planning.
Events and Volunteer Opportunities
THE GREAT LA RIVER CLEAN UP
OCTOBER 10TH
See y'all at the Sepulveda Basin
Gentle Reminder - RC DTLA members are all registered to volunteer!
The Run of the Stars brings together competitive runners, walkers, families, local businesses and volunteers for a morning in the heart of Beverly Hills, with one goal: raising money to fund research for better childhood cancer treatments.
