Fundamental philanthropy, it seems, has become more mainstream in recent years than ever before. The goal in life seems to be changing. An elemental emphasis on 'philanthropy' has recently shifted to a popular focus of 'social responsibility'. And the truth is, even though we may not be rich, famous celebrities, we all have something powerful that must be given to society!  Read article

When people volunteer for a medical trial, they were thinking about their own health. Ken Getz, who founded a non-profit for medical trial participation, says that while the volunteers are undergoing treatment, they realize that the results might not help them but actually help other people.   Read article

Simon Teasdale from the Institute of Volunteer Research, looks at new research on volunteering, particularly among people at risk of social exclusion.  Read article

The typical student volunteer is white, middle-class and female - but work is under way to change all that.  Read article

The first UK funded gap-year students will set off in a few months to undertake voluntary work. Sally Broom, of Your Safe Planet, on the drive to create better 'global citizens'.  Read article