For years, efforts to capture volunteerism have focused on scale, how many people volunteer, how many hours they contribute, and what the economic replacement value might be. What is not measured remains largely invisible in policy and decision-making processes. This reflects a broader shift, from viewing volunteerism as a peripheral or “sideline” activity to recognizing it as a system that underpins community functioning and requires structured policy attention. Those working closely with volunteers understand that volunteering extends far beyond measurable outputs. Volunteering often functions as the invisible layer that holds communities together, particularly where formal systems are under pressure. It is built on relationships, trust, and a shared sense of responsibility, elements widely recognized in research on social capital, yet still insufficiently integrated into mainstream measurement approaches. These dimensions are essential for building resilient and inclusive societies.
This reality is especially visible in grassroots sport and diaspora communities, including those in the Western Balkans. In these contexts, volunteerism is not a supplementary activity; it is the foundation on which systems operate. Evidence from sport-based Erasmus+ projects and volunteer management initiatives across Europe consistently shows that local sport organizations depend on volunteers not only for delivery, but for governance, coordination, and long-term sustainability.
