Definition and History of Volunteering

The Randon House Dictionary of English Language defines a volunteer as: A person who voluntarily offers himself for a service or undertaking; a person who performs a service of his own free will. The concept of willingly helping others without monetary compensation is not new; it can be traced to biblical times.

All religions refer to charity and service to the poor. In the Bible, Mathew 10: 7 – 10 states “As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Do not take along any gold or silver or copper in your belts; take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep.”

Today, we have ample examples of leaders who have dedicated their life to the service of others. Mother Teresa, a nun who initially helped the poor and sick in the streets of Calcutta became the embodiment of compassion and generosity in over 120 countries throughout the world. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Although Mahatma Ghandi was never awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, he changed the consciousness of a nation and won India's struggle for independence from the British Empire. Nelson Mandela spent a quarter of a century behind bars for his leadership in the antiapartheid movement and the ANC Youth League.