What is International Volunteer Day?

December 5, 2023

December 5 is International Volunteer Day, and the global observance falls on the same date every year. Also known as the International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development, it’s mandated by the United Nations General Assembly and started back in 1985. But what is International Volunteer Day, exactly, and how can you mark this very special occasion? 

International Volunteer Day – IVD

According to the UN Volunteers website, “more than one billion people volunteer globally for solidarity and humanity, for people and the planet. International Volunteer Day (IVD), 5 December, is an occasion to pay tribute to volunteers worldwide and to recognize the value of volunteerism in advancing peace and development.”

International Volunteer Day is a chance for volunteer organizations and individual volunteers to promote volunteering and giving back to the community. It is celebrated around the world, and anyone can take part by volunteering in some way. 

This year’s IVD campaign is “the power of collective action: if everyone volunteered, the world would be a better place. If everyone did.” 

“Imagine more than eight billion of us volunteering,” the UNV site states. “Limitless possibilities for sustainable development – food and education for everyone, clean environment and good health, inclusive and peaceful societies, and more.”

Here at Phillips Law Group, we know there is strength in numbers when it comes to volunteering, although even one person can make a difference if they set their mind to it. We work with community partners several times a month on initiatives that fit well into those UNV suggestions; offering food, hygiene products, showers, and more to those in need in our community. 

Although the United Nations is heavily involved in the organization of the official International Volunteer Day, you can certainly volunteer on your own time and in whatever way you choose to commemorate the occasion! According to the organization, the monthly number of volunteers worldwide who are 15 years and over amounts to 862.4 million – and you could be one of them. 

How to Get Started

If you are interested in volunteering in the Phoenix community but don’t know where to start, we can help. Phillips Law Group has community service partnerships with many organizations that could always use an extra hand. 

To learn more about the firm’s community outreach work, please check out our Community Involvement page. If you want to work with one of the organizations we regularly partner with or to help us out with a future Feeding Arizona event, please contact us and we will happily steer you in the right direction! 

Happy International Volunteer Day! What are you doing to celebrate?