About International Volunteer Day
International Volunteer Day is observed on 5 December. Designated by the UN General Assembly in 1985, it recognises the time, skills and care that volunteers give to their communities and encourages more people to get involved.
The UN General Assembly designated 5 December as International Volunteer Day in 1985. It honours people who give their time without pay to help others, and it encourages governments and organisations to recognise and support volunteering.
Volunteers work in every field, from disaster relief, health and education to the environment, sport and culture. Their contribution often goes unseen, but it holds many communities together, especially in times of crisis.
How it is marked
NGOs, schools and colleges hold events to thank volunteers and invite new ones to join. Workplaces organise volunteering days and community projects. Hospitals, shelters and charities host open days for people who want to help. In India, many college students take part in community service through the National Service Scheme, and housing societies, youth clubs and faith groups run their own volunteer efforts.
What to write
Thank volunteers warmly and specifically for what they do.
- Thank you for showing up, again and again, for people who needed you. The relief camp ran because of people like you.
- Every Sunday at the library, rain or shine. Thank you for reading with our kids.
- Best NSS camp partner ever. Same team next year?
How to wish someone on International Volunteer Day
thanks to volunteers for their time and care, and the work they quietly do
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is International Volunteer Day on 5 December?
The UN General Assembly designated 5 December as International Volunteer Day in 1985. The date has been used every year since to thank volunteers and promote volunteering worldwide.
How can students mark International Volunteer Day?
Students can join a clean-up, tutor younger children, help at an animal shelter or support a donation drive. Many schools and colleges also offer volunteering through clubs and service schemes.
How can offices mark International Volunteer Day?
Offices can organise a team volunteering activity with a trusted local organisation, recognise employees who volunteer and share ways to get involved through the year. A simple thank-you card to a volunteer also means a lot.
When is International Volunteer Day in 2026?
International Volunteer Day 2026 falls on Saturday, 5 December 2026.
What is International Volunteer Day?
International Volunteer Day is observed on 5 December. Designated by the UN General Assembly in 1985, it recognises the time, skills and care that volunteers give to their communities and encourages more people to get involved.
Is International Volunteer Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Volunteer Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Volunteer Day?
Focus on thanks to volunteers for their time and care, and the work they quietly do. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Volunteer Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .