Born on December 5
International Volunteer Day
Thank someone who gives their time.
Next: December 5, 2026
Where it comes from
The UN General Assembly created International Volunteer Day in 1985, in resolution 40/212, to acknowledge volunteers and promote the spirit of volunteering at local, national and international levels.
How it's celebrated
Charities, community groups and governments use the day to thank their volunteers and invite new ones, and the UN encourages online volunteering, so anyone can help from home. It is also the simplest card to send: a thank-you to someone who gives their time for nothing in return.
Did you know
The UN estimates there are about a billion volunteers worldwide, and around 70 per cent of them volunteer informally, helping people in their own communities.
Read the full story of International Volunteer Day
Also on this day
- World Soil Day · Good things grow from healthy soil.
Star sign
Sagittarius · November 22 – December 21 · Fire sign
Restless and optimistic, always planning the next adventure.