International Volunteer Day, commonly known as IVD, is celebrated on 5 December every year. It started as an international observance mandated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1985. It is a day where volunteers are acknowledged and the spirit of volunteerism is promoted at the local, national and international levels. United Nations Volunteers joins IVD celebrations with all volunteers around the world—amplifying the importance of people-led solutions to our common challenges. 

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is impossible without the active involvement of individuals at every stage, level, and moment.

Volunteerism empowers people to be part of the solutions, enabling communities to engage in their own development.

The challenges the world is facing such as climate change, conflicts, and social inequalities—can seem daunting. However, during these difficult times, the spirit of volunteerism shines even more brightly. Across the globe, volunteers are often the first responders, facing challenges with bravery, commitment, and generosity.

Volunteers foster a vibrant culture of service within their communities. They help connect different generations and contribute to sustainable development.

Engaging in volunteer work allows us to collaborate across age groups to achieve the SDGs. Volunteerism forms an intergenerational cycle.

This year's theme, “Every Contribution Matters,” reminds us that everyone has something meaningful to offer, and that every cause, from hunger, to climate, to humanitarian action, benefits from the enthusiasm and expertise of volunteers