Gönüllü

Gönüllü is a Turkish word that functions as both a noun and an adjective, most commonly translated as "volunteer" or "voluntary." As a noun, it refers to a person who offers time, labor, or expertise without financial compensation. As an adjective, it describes actions or programs carried out on a voluntary basis, such as gönüllü çalışmak (to volunteer), gönüllü hizmet (voluntary service), or gönüllü programı (volunteer program). The term is derived from gönül, meaning "heart" or "will," with the suffix -lü meaning "having" or "possessing," reflecting the idea of acting willingly from the heart.

In Turkey, volunteering is a part of civil society and is practiced across many sectors, including charitable, educational, environmental, and disaster-relief activities. Volunteers typically participate through non-governmental organizations, universities, municipalities, religious associations, and informal community groups. Large-scale humanitarian efforts are coordinated by agencies such as the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and the Turkish Red Crescent (Türk Kızılayı), which mobilize volunteers for disaster response, blood donation campaigns, and aid distribution. Numerous NGOs also run long-term programs in education, health, and social inclusion.

The legal framework for organized volunteering in Turkey is primarily provided by laws governing associations and foundations, which regulate how volunteer activities are organized and funded. Volunteers are generally not paid for their direct labor, though organizations may reimburse certain expenditures or provide training. Volunteering in Turkey continues to grow as a means of civic participation and social support, often linking local communities with national and international volunteer networks.