German and Italian volunteer system: some questions

Our impression is that a fundamental difference exists between the German

system of volunteers associations and the Italian associations. The German

volunteers associations seem normally be the expression of the institutions

(universities, community, church …). though with the important contribution

of individual volunteers or of volunteer groups. This type of volunteer work

also exists in Italy, for example in the case of the “Universities of the Third Age “,

usually organized by the municipalities, even of small countries. But the Italian

volunteers (especially inside Tuscany) is often more direct and autonomous

expression of civil society. It is structured in small or  large groups, organized

according to democratic rules as are prescribed by national and regional laws.

The relationship with public institutions (regions, municipalities, hospitals, etc.).

often very important, is according to “agreements” that provide for a rebate

associations (but not to volunteers) for expenses related to services carried out .

Otherwise, the volunteer work  must be completely free of charge. Associations

can have a very limited number of employees, such as an administrator.

In many cases the local authorities give  free spaces for the exercise of activities

of the association. Further funds come from private organizations, from

enrolment fees of members and from the  participation in projects that can be

financed by the system of banks, or by the Tuscan Region´s authority , or from

Europe, etc…

In the area of Pisa, there are nearly 300 volunteer associations that are

widespread also in smaller countries. This results in a voluntary participation

of all social classes and people of all cultural levels and of all ages. For example,

in the small town where Marco lives,  the local  association named “Misericordia”

(an association that takes care of sick, old or handicapped people,  born in

Tuscany in 1442), there are 400 members and 150 active volunteers, mostly

young, among about 2000 inhabitants the country).

The above ensures the social cohesion of the Tuscan territory, especially in the

countryside.

Anna, Marco and Rolanda