ENThe generic competences are particularly important for all people in our society. It brings more opportunities to stimulate new environment and successfully participate in the activities in lifelong learning. During the participation in the variety of voluntary activities adults have a chance to feel the quality of life. The paper analyses the generic competences in active voluntary activity. It is analysed theoretically the tendency of adult education, function of volunteering and motivation of participation in voluntary activity. The quantitative research revealed that most adults seek to develop generic competences in voluntary activity. Especially for older respondents it is very important to help others and enhance self-confidence. Keywords: adult education, generic competences, lifelong learning, volunteering.