Definition of Formal Volunteering Formal volunteering is an activity which takes place in not-for-profit organisations or projects and is undertaken: To be of benefit to the community and the volunteer; Of the volunteer's own free will and without coercion; For no financial payment; In designated volunteer positions only. Principles of Volunteering 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.