Awareness
International Volunteer Day (IVD), held annually on Dec. 5, is a chance for us to pause and reflect on the incredible work volunteers do around the world. As the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program reminds us, volunteering isn’t just about giving time—it’s about playing an active role in solving global challenges. Whether tackling climate change, fighting social injustice, or lending a hand in times of crisis, volunteers are often the first to step up. Their efforts are key in driving positive change, helping achieve social, environmental, and economic goals, and making those ambitious Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) a reality.
The theme for IVD 2024, Diverse Volunteers, Stronger Communities, perfectly captures the heart of volunteerism. Volunteers come from all walks of life and bring unique perspectives, but they are united by a shared commitment to improving the world around them. Whether part of a formal organization or simply helping informally in their community, volunteers are integral to tackling global issues that affect us all. In times of uncertainty, volunteerism is a source of hope and strength, showing that when people work together, they can make a real difference.
The power of volunteering in achieving the SDGs
As UNV points out, volunteers are crucial to reaching the SDGs. These goals, which include ending poverty, promoting health and well-being, advancing gender equality, and addressing climate change, can’t be achieved without active, on-the-ground participation from communities. Volunteers help take these big, global targets and turn them into meaningful, local action. They work with communities to create solutions that are not only effective but inclusive.
UNV’s research shows that 862.4 million people worldwide volunteer each month, and a large percentage of this is informal volunteering—like helping a neighbour or organizing a local event. While formal volunteering tends to be more male-dominated, women are more likely to be involved in informal volunteer work. These numbers show how vital volunteerism is in building stronger communities, bridging generational gaps, and empowering people to take charge of their development. Beyond this, volunteering shifts mindsets, turning participants into active contributors who help build more empathetic and connected communities.
Addressing Canada’s volunteer shortage
In Canada, however, the landscape of volunteerism is facing growing hurdles. In its latest report from 2022, Statistics Canada found that 65 percent of organizations reported a shortage of new volunteers, while 50 percent struggled to retain those they had. Furthermore, 42 percent found it difficult to secure long-term commitments from volunteers—all while 74 percent of organizations saw increased demand for their services.
This gap between the demand for services and the availability of volunteers highlights the need to bolster resources for volunteer-driven organizations. With fewer people stepping forward to help, the burden often falls on a smaller group of committed individuals, making it harder for nonprofits and charities to meet their goals.
Yet, even amid these difficulties, volunteers are still working hard to create connected and resilient communities. An example is the Canadian Pride Historical Society (CPHS), which is entirely volunteer-run. The dedication of individuals at CPHS helps preserve and share 2SLGBTQIA+ history in Canada, ensuring that important stories of activism, milestones, and struggles are documented for future generations.
How you can make a difference
International Volunteer Day is a chance to recognize the tangible impact of volunteering and how it strengthens communities. Whether through formal organizations or simple acts of kindness, volunteering is about finding ways to contribute that feel meaningful to you. Offering your time or skills, in whatever capacity you can, helps create connections and support systems that benefit everyone.
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