The European Union chose 2011 as the “European Year of Volunteering”. In the EU, about 100 million citizens of all ages spend their time, talents and money to make a contribution to their community each year. They can volunteer in civil society organisations, youth clubs, hospitals, or schools. Volunteering is an active participation which improves common European values such as solidarity and social unity. Volunteering also provides great learning opportunities because joining in voluntary activities can provide people with new skills and competences. This helps improve their chances of getting jobs. Volunteering plays an important role in different sectors such as education, culture, environment, or health. The EU expects that the European Year of Volunteering will lead to an increase in volunteering and to greater awareness among European people. It will also highlight the connection between voluntary work at local level and the whole Europe.