2003 Economic Impact of Arkansas Volunteers

Methodology and Response Rate

Fifteen groups comprised the population for this study. They were state agencies; counties; cities; public school districts; United Community Organizations of Arkansas (UCOA); United Ways; veterans groups; civic clubs; National Service Organizations; senior organizations; libraries; private/parochial schools; private colleges and universities; faith based organizations; and youth organizations. A total of 1,573 cover letters and questionnaires were mailed to each of the fifteen groups. Each was requested to report the number of volunteers, hours worked, and estimated hourly wage equivalent for the calendar year of 2003 with the exception of school districts, which were requested to report for the 2002-2003 school year. The one-page questionnaire was designed for optimum convenience of the respondent. Instructions and an explanation of terms appeared on the front of the form to assist those surveyed with completing the questionnaire. A postage-paid mailer on the back of the questionnaire enabled respondents to fold and return them at no cost. A fax number was also provided. A follow-up letter with a copy of the questionnaire was sent to non-respondents approximately three weeks after the first mailing. Non-respondents to the second mailing were interviewed by telephone. A total of 793 questionnaires were completed for an overall return rate of 50 percent. The return rate for each organization is shown in Table 1. (The rosters for these groups are reported on pages 13 through 47.)

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