The number of hired personnel has increased in associations and it is common that their job description includes leading of volunteers. In leading volunteer work the regulations considering the right to supervise work can not be applied, and therefore it is unfeasible to require participation or assign tasks to volunteers. The purpose of this thesis was to gain an understanding of volunteer leaders’ viewpoint of their role in motivation and commitment of volunteers. The aim was to find practices of motivating and solutions to those challenges related to motivating the volunteers.

The theoretical framework of this study includes the themes of volunteer work and motivation. The topics were examined by familiarizing one self with literature, previous studies and online sources. Thesis was based on a qualitative method. Seven hired association leaders were interviewed for the study. Data were collected using theme interviews.

According to the results of the interviews the most important issue in leading volunteers is expressing appreciation and giving genuine recognition. In addition, maintaining open and interactive atmosphere is significant. In motivational leadership of volunteers, personal interests and resources are taken into consideration, and the most suitable form of participation is sought for every individual. Planning the operations of associations and providing for various situations help leaders solve challenges, which volunteers do not tolerate as well as hired personnel.

The information provided in this study is useful for those involved and interested in volunteer work. The results can also be used in associations for developing the leadership of volunteers. Further studies could include topics such as recruitment of volunteers, systematic procedure for developing volunteers at their work, and the research on leadership at the local level.