Volunteering: best practice models in the international arena

Abstract

In 1983, the European Parliament defined voluntary work as an unpaid activity based on one’s own decision. Further, voluntary work has to be “socially relevant”, which means that it can be performed in the following sectors: environment, welfare, education and health. In recent decades, voluntary work has become not just a personal hobby or social expectation but also way of personal development (modern versus traditional volunteering). Positive impacts of volunteering have been studied extensively and favourable effects on both the volunteers and the beneficiaries have been identified. The European Union has launched its own program, called European Voluntary Service, which provides a framework for young adults Europe-wide. In this work I will focus on social and personal benefits of international volunteering.