International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development is observed on December 5, annually, at the international level. The day is celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of volunteering in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The day also recognizes and promotes the tireless work of the volunteers, who have been contributed towards the achievement of SDGs.
According to the statics shared by the UN, for people who never volunteered - the odds of being “very happy” rose by 7% among those who volunteer monthly and by 12% among those who volunteer every 2-4 weeks.
International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development is also observed as International Volunteer Day or IVD.
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“For the generations of TOMORROW, we must take responsibility for the changes needed to build a better future NOW. Encouraging, recognizing and promoting volunteerism is an important part of creating a more equal and inclusive future for communities and worldwide. In the lead-up to #IVD2021, let us celebrate the contributions of the millions who #volunteernow,” read UN’s official site.
The United Nation also urge volunteers, across the world, to take measures to heighten awareness of the important contribution of volunteer service, thereby stimulating more people in all walks of life to offer their services as volunteers, both at home and abroad.
International Volunteer Day 2021: Theme
This year, the theme for the day is – “Volunteer now for our common future”. The theme aims to inspire people, whether they are decision-makers or citizens of this world, to take action NOW for people and the planet.
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International Volunteer Day 2021: History
The International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution A/RES/40/212 on 17 December 1985. Since then, governments, the UN system and civil society organizations have successfully joined volunteers around the world to celebrate the Day on 5 December.