International Volunteer Day
The United Nations (UN) annually observes the International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development on December 5. The day, which is also known as International Volunteer Day (IVD), gives volunteers a chance to work together on projects and campaigns promoting their contributions to economic and social development at local, national and international levels.
What do people do?
This day hopes to heighten people’s and governments’ awareness of voluntary contributions. It also focuses on stimulating people to offer their services as volunteers, both at home and abroad. Over the years, governments, businesses, nonprofit organisations, and individuals contribute the International Volunteer Day through various activities including:- Voluntary community projects
- Parades, marches, or rallies
- Award ceremonies for volunteers who made significant contributions to their communities
- “Time donation” campaigns that involve people pledging hours of voluntary service to specific projects
- Companies launching voluntary programs as part of their corporate responsibility
- Volunteer competitions.