National Volunteer Network - The Gambia (VolNet - Gam) was established in 2008 following the celebrations of the International Year of Volunteers (IYV 2008). The organization was born out of the belief that volunteering is an old profession and a part of human civilization and human sacrifice. It cuts across all borders and societies. VolNet believes that volunteers, whether national or international contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of any nation and the welfare of humanity as a whole. It became necessary to set up an umbrella organization for volunteers in the Gambia to ensure that all volunteer activities become harmonized and co-ordinated in an effective and efficient manner. VolNet’s primary role would be to ensure that the volunteers’ welfare is protected during and after service and that volunteers observe and abide by basic codes of conduct that befit their status as either international or national volunteers.