We celebrate International Volunteer Day (IVD) 2022 with millions of volunteers worldwide who work in solidarity and promote volunteer spirit. As we mark IVD, we recognize the life-changing impact that volunteers are having on millions of people every day.
Over a billion people volunteer their time, skills, and experience to help improve their communities. From providing practical support to vulnerable children and adults to advising on sophisticated technical and legal issues, volunteers are present at all levels of society. Each one brings a specific set of skills to their tasks.
To mark this occasion, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed sends a message of thanks to volunteers, who, she says, "bring concrete solutions to development challenges and for the common good."
By volunteering, people take action to improve their lives and the lives of those around them. Volunteerism is universal and strengthens civic engagement, social inclusion, solidarity, and ownership.
Achim Steiner, Administrator of the UN Development Programme, expresses his "sincere gratitude to UN Volunteers and volunteers everywhere for their extraordinary contributions to peace, development and humanitarian assistance."
On International Volunteer Day, UNV’s Executive Coordinator Toily Kurbanov pays tribute to volunteers, "the everyday champions of local action and global solidarity. Their time and efforts make a positive impact on people's lives. Their passion helps heal the planet."
People across the world, UN entities and their partners, Member States, and governments around the globe have started IVD celebrations. They recognize the contributions and efforts of volunteers and encourage the spirit of volunteerism through events, activities, conferences, discussions, and volunteer awards.
On IVD, UNV is receiving messages of recognition and appreciation from around the world. These include video messages from the Executive Director of the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), Catherine Russell, and the UN Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth, Jayathma Wickramanayake.
Our map shows 140+ events and activities worldwide for IVD celebrations. Many countries are participating in recognizing volunteers, and we are hosting UNV Country Awards with our partners and local authorities in all continents of the world.
Join IVD celebrations, support volunteers, and learn more about the power of volunteerism. You can find all IVD resources on our IVD Trello board, including graphics and messaging.
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