Volunteer Day

International Volunteer Day (IVD) is an annual observance that celebrates the contributions of millions of volunteers worldwide and promotes their spirit of volunteerism and commitment to making a positive impact on society. It serves as a platform to recognize the importance of these volunteers in fostering sustainable development, building strong communities, and responding to humanitarian challenges. This day also aims to inspire more individuals to engage in volunteering activities and provides the opportunity to highlight the valuable efforts made by volunteers in aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The United Nations General Assembly established International Volunteer Day in 1985, in response to a growing global awareness of the importance of volunteerism. Since then, it has been observed in countries around the world, including Canada. Volunteering in Canada has a rich history and remains an integral part of Canadian culture today. According to Statistics Canada, approximately 12.7 million Canadians volunteered in 2018, contributing over 1.7 billion hours of their time and skills to various initiatives. The country has an array of volunteering opportunities in areas such as health care, education, conservation, and disaster relief efforts, among others.

In Canada, International Volunteer Day is observed on December 5th, offering a chance for Canadians to participate in various events and activities that raise awareness about the value and importance of volunteerism. These events may include community gatherings, award ceremonies that honour outstanding volunteers, and volunteer fairs that showcase different opportunities for involvement. Canadians are encouraged to not only appreciate the efforts of existing volunteers but also explore areas where they could personally contribute their skills and time to help address the pressing needs of the country and its diverse communities.