Date
Monday
Apr
21

April 21-27

National Volunteer Week

Lend a hand, change a life! Embrace the spirit of giving during National Volunteer Week and make a difference in your community.

Type
Week

Introduction

Embrace the spirit of giving and join hands with others around the globe during National Volunteer Week starting on April 21. Since its inception in 1974, this week-long celebration has been at the forefront in honoring those who take out time from their busy lives to bring about a change in the world. It's a fun-filled, heartwarming week where we can all make a push to engage in acts of volunteerism and inspire others to do the same. Time to roll up those sleeves and dive into the world of social service, making the world a brighter, happier place!

National Volunteer Week Timeline

1974
Establishment of National Volunteer Week
National Volunteer Week was established by Presidential Proclamation to celebrate volunteerism in the United States.
1981
Recognition Act Passed
The House of Representatives passed Resolution 43 to further recognize National Volunteer Week, encouraging more citizens to engage in acts of service.
1990
Volunteerism Peaks
Thanks to various awareness campaigns, volunteerism in the U.S. reached an all-time high with nearly half of all adult Americans involved in some form of volunteer work.
2006
Corporations Join the Cause
Corporations started to promote employee volunteerism with company-led projects and charitable donations, further increasing participation during National Volunteer Week.
2020
Volunteerism in Pandemic
During the Global COVID-19 pandemic, volunteers played a crucial role in helping communities cope, demonstrating the importance and impact of volunteer work.

How to Celebrate National Volunteer Week

1

Lead a community project

Show your leadership skills by organizing a community-wide project. It could be anything from a clean-up drive, tree planting activity, or a local fundraising event. Encourage neighbors, friends, and family to participate.

2

Join or plan a volunteering fair

Invite local charities and organizations to introduce their causes and needs. It's the perfect opportunity for those interested in volunteering but unsure of where to start. Plan some festive activities, food vendors, and entertainment to make it fun!

3

Create care packages

Gather some friends and assemble care packages. One could prepare packages for the homeless with essentials like toothpaste, soap, or even hand warmers. Elaborate packages could include toys for less fortunate children or food packages for struggling families.

4

Donate your skills

Volunteering is not limited to physical work; it can also be about donating your skills. If you're good at teaching, offer tutoring services to those in need. If you're skilled in arts, organize a free art class. There's always a way to contribute no matter what your ability is.

5

Appreciate other volunteers

On this week, show your gratitude to the people who've been selflessly volunteering their time and efforts. Surprise them with a small thank you note or token of appreciation. Your gesture will also motivate others to volunteer and serve the community.

Why National Volunteer Week is Important

A

It promotes the spirit of giving

National Volunteer Week is all about encouraging people to engage in acts of kindness and contribute to their communities. It's a special moment when individuals can come together, lend a hand, and bring about positive changes around them.

B

It honors generous hearts

Since its inception, this week-long celebration has been at the forefront of recognizing individuals who've taken the time out of their busy lives to create a difference. It's a chance to applaud their selfless actions and inspire others to follow suit.

C

It encourages unity

National volunteer week brings people together to work towards a common goal, fostering unity and cohesion in social service. It creates a chain reaction, encouraging others to step forward and help those in need, hence making the world a happier, brighter place.