Volunteering for a Sustainable Future

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“Volunteers embody the best of humanity. On this important day, let’s draw inspiration from their example, and resolve to do our part to help shape a better world for all.”- António Guterres- Secretary-General of the United Nations. What is the state of volunteerism in your society? Undoubtedly, volunteerism must be actively encouraged or else that spirit of humanity will eventually die. The United Nations states that volunteerism is an enormous renewable resource for social, economic and environmental problem-solving throughout the world. Oftentimes the most visible aspects of volunteering are around service delivery in communities. Volunteerism should never be politicized. Humanity depends on the availability of volunteers to give of their time and resources. International Volunteer Day (IVD) is a global observance that celebrates the selfless contributions of volunteers who dedicate their time and efforts to making the world a better place. Volunteers are at the forefront of addressing global challenges such as climate change, conflicts, and social injustices. Volunteers are often the first to respond in crisis and they demonstrate courage, commitment and selflessness to their efforts. By engaging people at all levels and stages, volunteerism transforms communities and empowers individuals to be part of the solutions. Volunteerism can promote a culture of collaborative decision-making. International Volunteer Day, commonly known as IVD, is observed on 5 December every year. The day began as an international observance mandated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1985. This special day is set aside to acknowledge volunteers as well as the spirit of volunteerism at the local, national and international levels. United Nations Volunteers joins IVD celebrations with UN Volunteers and all volunteers around the world amplifying the importance of people-led solutions to our common challenges. The theme for International Volunteer Day 2024 is “Volunteering for a Sustainable Future.” It highlights the critical role volunteers play in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), from eradicating poverty and promoting quality education to combating climate change and fostering gender equality. Inspiration to Action. Volunteerism is one of the most vital delivery mechanisms for social, environmental and economic transformation, ensuring a lasting impact with its ability to change people’s mindsets, attitudes and behaviours. The United Nations (UN) adds that people become actors of change and equal partners in the attainment of local, national and international progress towards sustainable human development and global peace. The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme recognizes the shared universal values underpinning volunteerism free will, commitment, equity, engagement, solidarity, compassion, empathy and respect for others. This year’s International Volunteer Day is a moment to recognize the one billion people who volunteer across the world. From local communities to global initiatives, volunteers remind us that progress often starts with the selfless actions of those willing to make a difference. In 2022, over 2,500 UN Volunteers served with over 30 UN partners in Latin America and the Caribbean. International Volunteer Day is also an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges volunteers face while advocating for policies that support and protect them. The United Nations Volunteers have supported humanitarian efforts in Gaza; assisted families affected by the war in Ukraine and helped restore basic services and livelihoods in Myanmar. In South Sudan, UN volunteers have taken a stand against sexualized violence during local elections. Undoubtedly, our world is changing, and so too are the ways volunteers engage. The rise of digital and remote volunteering enables anyone to contribute also to global causes from anywhere in the world. It is impossible to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) without including people at all stages, at all levels, and at all times. There is definitely a need for more public education regarding volunteerism. As a result, this is an area that governments can examine in order to foster a culture of volunteerism. Volunteering makes people part of the solutions. Volunteerism allows for individuals and communities to participate in their own development. Volunteering is an intergenerational cycle and assist with networking and social scaffolding. On this the International Volunteer Day the global community should pause to pay tribute to all who are in this special category. Thank you for your dedication and humanitarianism. In the words of Sherry Anderson, volunteers are not paid not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless. Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues. waykam@yahoo.com @WayneCamo © #InternationalVolunteerDay #IVD2024

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