The Economic Dimension of Volunteerism as a Trend of University Research

Although volunteering is the fastest growing type of student activity, its economic dimension is poorly defined. This study examines volunteers’ expenditure in the context of Sochi 2014 Olympic Games. The findings indicate that the average total expenditure per person per Olympic trip was RUB 15748. The structure of disaggregated volunteers’ expenditure was different from the usual Russian tourist spending: the share of transport costs more and accommodation cost less due to free placement. They also bought more souvenirs and tickets at sporting events. Using structural equation modelling it was found that a higher level of costs, associated with education, income and status of volunteers, negatively affected their satisfaction, which, consequently, reflected in the level of support for the Games and desire to work as a volunteer in the long term.