According to a 2018 study by the University of Maryland, the United States has experienced a significant decline in the percentage of Americans who volunteer to community organizations. By volunteering as a member of your homeowners association, you can make a difference in your community. HOAs in Colorado depend on volunteers for board membership, committees and other roles within the organization.
Volunteering in your association may also expose you to the processes in place used to govern the community, which may in turn help provide a viewpoint not yet seen. Sometimes, by being part of a process, we can gain a better understanding of that process. Frequently, the way in which we perceive a given situation depends on the role we play in that situation. Volunteering is a great way of changing roles and allowing for difference in perspective.
If one of the reasons you purchased your home in an HOA is the idea that community standards will help protect and possibly increase property values, then volunteering is a great way to ensure that idea is realized. Since the board of an association makes the vast majority of the decisions for the association, becoming a board member is the most direct way of making a difference in your community. If you are unable to run for board membership, consider supporting the candidacy of a neighbor with whom you share opinions and ideals. Perhaps even contemplate volunteering to assist them in their campaign.
Consider reaching out to your neighbors to encourage them to volunteer as well. Creating a pool of volunteers can be a great way to meet people and help your community. Volunteering in your HOA may also help you better understand your governing documents. For example, assisting in preparing for the conducting of an association meeting may provide you with some hands-on experience with your association’s bylaws. Likewise, volunteering for a rule review committee may provide you with some firsthand experience with your association’s rules and regulations. However you choose to volunteer, rest assured that it is a great way to learn more about the operation of your association, while providing an opportunity to engage in service to the community.