The voluntary sector (also non-profit sector) is the sphere of social activity undertaken by organizations that are non-profit^[1] and non-governmental. This sector is also called the third sector, in reference to the public sector and the private sector. Civic sector is another term for the sector, emphasizing the sector's relationship to civil society.

What constitutes the voluntary sector may be interpreted widely or narrowly, and may include such diverse groups as advocacy/interest groups, think tanks, social movements, political parties, charitable organizations, volunteer community organizations, and religious organizations. The voluntary sector may be said to comprise organizations with a social purpose, although usually not including those with a primary focus on social enterprise or social entrepreneurship activities.

from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voluntary_sector

Volunteerism is the willingness of people to work on behalf of others without being motivate by financial or material gain. Volunteers may have special training as rescuers, guides, assistants, teachers, missionaries, amateur radio operators, writers, and in other positions. But the majorities work on an imprompt basis, recognizing a need and filling it, whether it be the dramatic search for a lost child or the everyday giving of directions to a lost visitor.

In economics, voluntary employment is unpaid employment. It may be done for altruistic reasons, for example charity, as a hobby, community service or vocation, or for the purpose of gaining experience. Some go so far as to dedicate much of their lives to voluntary service. One way in which this is done is through the creation of a Non-Profit Franchise.

from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volunteerism 11/08