Along with World Soil Day, we also celebrate International Volunteer Day (IVD)on the 5th of December. This day is an opportunity for us to promote volunteering, encourage governments to support volunteers and recognize the contribution volunteers make to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The #IVD2019 theme is “Volunteer for an inclusive future”, essentially highlighting SDG 10 promising equality and inclusion through volunteerism by 2030.
Volunteering provides people with an opportunity. Particularly individuals that are often excluded, who are now able to impact their own lives and play a constructive role in their communities. Communities all around the world are strengthened in solidarity and inclusion through volunteering.
“Volunteers are often the first to act in times of crisis, helping millions to survive despite the risks. Their work upholds our common humanity.”
(UN Secretary-General António Guterres, International Volunteer Day 2017)
International Volunteer Day is celebrated by many worldwide and supported by the United nations volunteers (UNV) programme. The UNC coordinates a campaign to promote IVD every year, building the impact volunteers have in their communities for international peace and development. It is worth recognizing the current estimate of 109 million full-time working volunteers in the workforce, globally. Around 30% of volunteering takes place in formal settings through organization and association, 70% of volunteering occurs through informal engagement between individuals and 60% of all informal volunteers are women.
“The diverse and dynamic role of volunteerism in promoting the Sustainable Development Goals merits strong support from Governments and other stakeholders. On this International Day, I thank volunteers for their efforts to leave no one behind.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
This day is in tribute of all individuals that devote their lives to a cause bigger than themselves, helping to make our world a better place. Thank you for all of your commitment and determination!
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