The article discusses the urgent issue of the role and place of the volunteering as a form of self-organization of population to solve pressing problems of society. The concept of a volunteer as an individual who carries out socially oriented non-profit activities through the provision of volunteer assistance was defined. It was noted that volunteering is an effective way to solve the complex problems of the individual, society and the environment, which often arise from insufficient care for the public good. The article focuses on the principles of volunteer activity. It was clarified that for Ukraine volunteering is extremely relevant and important. The Revolution of Dignity and the events it caused in Ukraine led to significant changes in Ukrainian society. It was determined that the main features of Ukrainian volunteering are its high efficiency and mobility. The creativity of volunteers deserves special attention - a variety of types, forms of volunteer activity, and options for obtaining funds. The activity of the first youth volunteer organization in Vinnytsia “Student Academy of Volunteering” was analyzed. It was emphasized that Ukrainian society should develop a solid foundation, such as volunteering, to unite and become an impetus for building a civil society and developing a democratic country.