I volunteer now because for one, I have extra time, or at least make the time for it. As an active JW, I felt it was often looked down upon and so I avoided it.
After I opened my eyes to TTATT, I began to volunteer in the community through my job and found I really enjoyed it.
My last sheperding call earlier this year from the elders made me think. I asked why, if I was willing to help in the congregation, I had to meet guidelines that weren't in the Bible. One elder asked me a rhetorical question - Did I consider myself exemplary?
Well that made me think. But rather than move me to do more time wasting for the org, it made me do more in the community. Why? During any volunteer event in the community I have not once been asked if I consider myself to be exemplary. I've done it purely out of what I feel in my heart and not because I am chasing some dream or position.
The efforts in volunteering I have offered has been welcomed and I have never been dismissed because of not being exemplary. It does not even seem to be a thought amongst normal people asking for help.
Sorry WTBTS.
CoC