A voluntary organisation is a group of people who agree to come together, without pay, for a particular purpose, often in response to a perceived need, or to bring about change.

The group may decide to become legally constituted, elect or appoint a voluntary management committee and office bearers (usually Convener, Vice-Convener, Treasurer and Secretary), and often seeks recognition as a charity.

A voluntary organisation is non-governmental, is independent of state, and is
self-governing.

A voluntary organisation is also a not-for-profit body. This means that any financial surplus is reinvested into the organisation and is not distributed to committee members, directors or shareholders.

A voluntary organisation can take a variety of legal forms or structures and be known under a number of names. Charity, community organisation, collective, non-profit, not-for-profit company, society, association, club, trust and foundation are just a few.

While most charities are voluntary organisations, not all voluntary or community organisations are charities or would wish to adopt charitable status