International Volunteer Day (IVD) is a worldwide celebrated event on the honor of volunteers, and their great contribution towards serving the world in a better way. IVD is held on December 5, every year, and its goal is to attract attention to the immense effect of volunteer activities at local, national, and international levels.
To highlight a past IVD, the United Nations focused on the theme of the power of collective action: if everyone did and also on a world in which widespread volunteering (If everyone volunteered) would open unlimited opportunities to sustainable development, dealing with problems such as food, education, environment, health and peace in society. Volunteerism is found to be a significant renewable source to solve social, economic, and environmental problems in the world, and more often volunteers are the first to provide services in emergency cases.
International Volunteer Day 2025 Overview
This section provides key information regarding the annual observance of International Volunteer Day. Understanding these details helps in recognizing the scope and significance of global volunteer efforts.
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International Volunteer Day Overview |
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Particulars |
Details
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Event Name |
International Volunteer Day |
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Date of Observance |
December 5, annually |
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Conducting Body |
United Nations |
Core Message and Impact of Volunteerism
International Volunteer Day highlights the profound impact volunteers have globally. Their actions drive social change and address critical issues across various sectors.
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IVD is a global celebration to shine a light on the impact of volunteer efforts everywhere.
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Volunteers are leading social change around the world.
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This special day promotes the work of volunteers at all levels: local, national, and international.
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Last year, the UN marked IVD by recognizing "the power of collective action: if everyone did."
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The concept is: "If everyone volunteered, the world would be a better place," envisioning "Limitless possibilities for sustainable development – food and education for everyone, clean environment and good health, inclusive and peaceful societies, and more."
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Volunteerism is an enormous renewable resource for social, economic, and environmental problem-solving throughout the world.
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Volunteers are often the first to help in crises and emergencies, often in very testing and dire situations.
International Volunteer Day Theme
International Volunteer Day 2025 Theme: "Every Contribution Matters"
The theme for International Volunteer Day 2025, observed on December 5, is "Every Contribution Matters". It celebrates all forms of volunteering—big or small, formal or informal—and marks the launch of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY 2026). This focus highlights how collective small actions drive progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Why is International Volunteer Day Observed
International Volunteer Day is observed annually on December 5 to honor volunteers' contributions to economic and social development worldwide. Established by the UN General Assembly in 1985 (Resolution 40/212), it raises awareness about volunteerism's role in tackling global challenges like poverty, health crises, disasters, and inequality. The day promotes volunteer engagement at local, national, and international levels, encourages governments and organizations to support volunteers, and fosters solidarity by showcasing their impact—over 1 billion people volunteer globally, with 60% being women. It motivates more participation, protects volunteers' rights, and links their efforts to SDGs for sustainable progress.