Unit 39: Civic Engagement & Volunteerism

Task (Cambridge C1 Advanced, Part 2)

Question: You work for a local community centre that is planning to launch a new volunteer programme to support elderly residents in your area. The centre manager has asked you to write a proposal outlining how the programme should be structured, how to recruit volunteers, and how to ensure the long-term success of the initiative.

Write your proposal. You must write between 220-260 words.

Tips (en español)

• Structure: Para un proposal, utiliza subtítulos claros para cada sección (e.g., Introduction, Recruitment Strategy, Sustainability). Esto facilita la lectura y demuestra control estructural.
• Register: Mantén un tono formal y profesional. Evita contracciones (use do not instead of don't) y lenguaje coloquial. Dirígete al lector de forma indirecta.
• Linking: Utiliza conectores de transición avanzados para guiar al lector entre secciones (e.g., With regard to..., Moving on to...).
• Hedging (Lenguaje cauteloso): En propuestas, no afirmes cosas como verdades absolutas. Usa verbos modales o frases como it is anticipated that o this could lead to para sonar más profesional y menos arrogante.
• Evaluación de ideas: No te limites a listar ideas; explica el porqué. Si sugieres una actividad, menciona brevemente el beneficio para la comunidad.
• Time management: Dedica unos 5-10 minutos a planificar la estructura antes de escribir. En el examen C1, el tiempo es crítico; no dejes la revisión para el último segundo.

Useful language

Model answer

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Proposal for the New Community Volunteer Programme

Introduction The purpose of this proposal is to outline a strategic framework for the new volunteer programme aimed at supporting elderly residents. The aim is to foster social cohesion and provide essential assistance to vulnerable members of our community.

Recruitment Strategy To ensure a steady stream of dedicated volunteers, it is suggested that the centre launches a multi-channel recruitment campaign. This should include social media outreach to attract younger demographics, alongside local newspaper advertisements to reach retirees who may wish to give back. Furthermore, partnering with local universities could provide a consistent influx of students seeking community service experience.

Programme Structure With regard to the programme's operations, it is recommended that volunteers be categorised into two groups: 'Companionship Volunteers' and 'Practical Assistance Volunteers'. The former would focus on social visits to combat loneliness, while the latter would assist with tasks such as grocery shopping or light housework. This division would allow for more efficient matching of skills to needs.

Sustainability and Success While it is true that initial engagement may fluctuate, the long-term success of the initiative could be secured through regular feedback sessions and recognition events. By acknowledging the hard work of our volunteers, we can maintain high morale. It is also vital to establish a clear training protocol to ensure the safety and quality of service provided.

Conclusion In conclusion, by implementing a structured recruitment strategy and clear task division, the centre can create a meaningful and lasting impact. It is highly recommended that the board approves this framework to begin implementation immediately.

Marking checklist

• Content: Does the writing address all parts of the task (structure, recruitment, and success)? Is the information relevant and sufficient to satisfy the reader?
• Communicative Achievement: Is the tone appropriately formal for a proposal? Does it use the correct format (subheadings) to communicate ideas effectively to a manager?
• Organisation: Is the text logically organised with clear paragraphs? Are cohesive devices (linking words) used to connect ideas smoothly?
• Language: Is there a wide range of advanced vocabulary and complex grammatical structures? Are there errors in spelling or punctuation that impede communication?