Purpose. Identification of managerial factors of organizational development of volunteer potential in solving local community problems. Methods. Based on the case-study method, a comparative analysis of the functioning of volunteer centers established at major universities in Russia (Ekaterinburg) and Croatia (Zagreb) was carried out. Results. The authors analyzed the institutional context for the creation and development of volunteer centers, describes the quantitative and qualitative parameters of their activities, the internal management structure, sources of funding and interaction with the external partners. The key features of volunteer centers management specific regarding the scope of implemented voluntary projects and programs, cooperation with state and municipal authorities, diversification of the areas of volunteer activity and sources of its financing are revealed. Scientific novelty. Critical assessment of the interaction of the centers within the local communities with officials is given, the delay of the adequate response of the current management of the Russian resource center to the challenges of the external environment is established, the necessity of transforming its management strategy is justified.