volunteerism
vol-un-TEER-iz-um
/ˌvɒlənˈtɪərɪzəm/
The use or involvement of volunteer labor, especially in community services.
Refers to the organized system or philosophy of volunteering, rather than just the act of one person helping.
The story behind the word. From 'volo' (I wish). It entered English through the military, where a 'volunteer' was a soldier who joined the army of their own free will, rather than being drafted or conscripted. It moved into social work in the 19th century.
Word relationships
- service: Service can be paid (military service); volunteerism is by definition unpaid and freely chosen.
- coercion: Coercion is being forced to do something, the opposite of the free will in volunteerism.
Commonly confused with
- volunteering: Volunteering is the act; volunteerism is the broader social phenomenon or system.
Word family
- volunteer (noun/verb): A person who freely offers to take part in an enterprise or undertake a task.
Collocations
- spirit of volunteerism
- promote volunteerism
- corporate volunteerism
- community volunteerism
Example sentences
- "The city has seen a rise in volunteerism since the launch of the new youth mentorship program." Social benefits of volunteering.
- "Many companies now encourage employee volunteerism by offering paid time off for community service." Corporate social responsibility.
Memory hook
Volunteerism is about your 'Vol' (will). Of one's own will.
When not to use
Don't use it for forced community service or court-ordered labor, as the 'will' (voluntas) must be free.
Fun facts
- The Peace Corps is one of the most famous examples of organized international volunteerism.
Related words
Explore more words
Volunteer, philanthropic, altruism, Pro bono, Donation, Philanthropy
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