In the UK, the new political buzzword is volunteering. Its latest evangelists Chancellor Gordon Brown and Conservative leader David Cameron say community work gives disadvantaged young people the leg-up they need. But is unwaged work by its nature something only for the privileged?   Read article

Wellington, New Zealand: New Zealand celebrates International Volunteer Day on Monday, 5 December. If all the volunteers in New Zealand chose to strike in recognition of this important day, the country would grind to a halt.  Read article

New York, USA: When you work in the nonprofit sector, you are regularly reminded of the generosity of Americans, whether evidenced by the loyal perseverance of board members or the unstinting efforts of volunteers and staff. In New York City alone, there are more than 99,000 board members and 342,000 volunteers working at no pay to help NYC's nonprofits.  Read article

OneWorld Guides are written by online volunteers to provide a quick introduction to relevant sustainable development and human rights issues, with pointers to more detailed content. Guides editor, Bill Gunyon, reflects on the global overview on poverty brought along by the volunteers.   Read article

Scottish first minister Jack McConnell believes that promoting volunteering and encouraging enterprise amongst young people can make the next generation more confident and willing to seize opportunities.  Read article