5 Models of Volunteering

Non-formal volunteering takes place in local communities in response to specific social needs. Volunteers work in largely unfunded, less structured settings, and this group may include neighbourhood groups, self-help groups, recreational, sporting, social and special interest groups and mutual aid activities.

Non-formal volunteering occurs in a range of settings, but predominantly transpires in local communities to address specific social needs. Volunteers are generally community members who come together around a shared interest, and work largely in unfunded, less structured settings.

These volunteering programs are often relatively unstructured and may have only a few defined roles. The activities may be undertaken by whoever has the time and interest. There is unlikely to be a volunteer manager, but may well be coordinators for various activities who organise and support members working with them.

Motivation for joining these community organisations tends to be about sharing experiences or mutual assistance and people are likely to think of themselves as members or friends rather than volunteers.

Some examples of non-formal volunteering include:

• Volunteering for a neighbourhood group


• Running the canteen for a sporting or recreational group


• Coordinating the sale of merchandise for a self-help group


• Volunteering for a specific hobby group


• Providing services or support through a mutual support group

Non-formal volunteering differs from informal volunteering which is a term used to describe voluntary acts of helping and kindness to friends, family and neighbours.

Visit our resources section to view templates, tools and information sheets specifically about non-formal volunteering. Look for resources that have the Non-formal (N) icon highlighted in red.