Formal volunteering is an activity which takes place in not for profit organisations or projects and is undertaken:
Volunteering benefits the community and the volunteer.
Volunteer work is unpaid.
Volunteering is always a matter of choice.
Volunteering is not compulsorily undertaken to receive pensions or government allowances.
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.