Volunteerism

Definition

Volunteerism is voluntary, deliberate service to others over time and without compensation. A key element of volunteer behavior is that the person freely chooses to help and has no expectation of pay or other compensation. Mandatory public service required by courts or schools would not meet the definition of volunteerism. The volunteer behavior must include service work, not simply a donation of money or goods. This service is long-term, repeated service, such as giving time weekly to help at a local hospital. The volunteer service is only a service if it benefits others who want help. For example, the Boy Scout who helps the blind person across the street when the blind person wants to move independently (and perhaps in another direction) would not be ...