Definition & Principles of Volunteering

Definition
Volunteering is the commitment of time and energy for the benefit of society and the community, the environment or individuals outside one's immediate family. It is undertaken freely and by choice, without concern for financial gain.

Principles of Volunteering

• Volunteering benefits the community and the volunteer
• Volunteer work is unpaid
• Volunteering is always a matter of choice
• Volunteering is a legitimate way in which citizens can participate in the activities of their community
• Volunteering is a vehicle for individuals or groups to address human, environmental and social needs
• Volunteering is an activity performed in the not-for-profit sector only
• Volunteering is not a substitute for paid work
• Volunteers do not replace paid workers nor constitute a threat to the job security of paid workers
• Volunteering respects the rights, dignity and culture of others.
• Volunteering promotes human rights and equality.

You should also check the Universal Declaration on Volunteering