A volunteer is one who offers himself for service of his own free will. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints relies heavily upon a voluntary system to carry out its programs. Church callings, including missionary assignments, are entirely voluntary and without monetary reward. Many opportunities for service are also found in the welfare program of the Church, such as working in the canneries, bishops’ storehouses, Deseret Industries, or other welfare facilities. Church members are also encouraged to serve in their communities. Service given freely to others results in feelings of joy, self-worth, and increased compassion for the less fortunate.

"I speak of that service which is given without expectation of monetary reward. Most of the troubles of the world come because of human greed. What a therapeutic and wonderful thing it is for a man or woman to set aside all consideration of personal gain and reach out with strength and energy and purpose to help the unfortunate, to improve the community, to clean up the environment and beautify our surroundings. How much greater would be the suffering of the homeless and the hungry in our own communities without the service of hundreds of volunteers who give of their time and substance to assist them" (Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign, Aug. 1992, 5).