What is IVY26? How to Get Involved in IVY26 in Canada and Locally.

IVY26: Celebrating Volunteerism and Strengthening Communities in 2026

In 2026, communities around the world will come together to recognize a powerful and often under-acknowledged force for positive change: volunteers! The United Nations has officially declared 2026 as the International Volunteer Year (IVY 2026) to recognize volunteerism as a key driver of sustainable development.(IVY26), highlighting the critical role volunteerism plays in building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable societies.

Volunteerism takes many forms — from formal roles with nonprofits and community organizations to informal acts like helping neighbours, mentoring youth, or organizing local initiatives. IVY26 recognizes all of these contributions as essential to social well-being and long-term development.

What Is IVY26 and Why Now?

IVY26 is a global observance proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly, launching on International Volunteer Day (December 5, 2025) and continuing throughout 2026. It also marks the 25th anniversary of the first International Year of Volunteers in 2001, making it a significant milestone for the global volunteer movement.

Link to UN IVY26

The goal of IVY26 goes beyond celebration. It is designed to:

• Recognize volunteers as key contributors to sustainable development

• Encourage governments, organizations, and communities to invest in volunteer engagement

• Strengthen policies and systems that support safe, inclusive, and meaningful volunteer opportunities

Volunteers contribute directly to many of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including reducing poverty, improving health and education, supporting environmental protection, and strengthening community resilience. At a time when communities are facing complex challenges — from climate change to social isolation — volunteerism provides both immediate support and long-term solutions rooted in local knowledge and connection.

Volunteer Canada’s Role in IVY26

In Canada, Volunteer Canada is playing a central role in advancing the goals of IVY26. As the national leadership organization for volunteerism, Volunteer Canada is coordinating efforts through its Ignite Volunteerism campaign.

Ignite Volunteerism focuses on:

• Celebrating the contributions of volunteers across Canada

• Inspiring new and diverse volunteer participation

• Strengthening volunteer infrastructure and community partnerships

• Highlighting the role of volunteerism in fostering belonging and civic engagement

Volunteer Canada works closely with a national network of local volunteer centres, nonprofits, employers, and community organizations. Together, they help people find volunteer opportunities that align with their interests, skills, availability, and values — whether that’s ongoing service, short-term projects, or skills-based volunteering.

IVY26 provides a unique opportunity to elevate volunteer voices, share stories of impact, and reinforce the idea that volunteering is not just about filling gaps in services, but about strengthening the social fabric of communities.

How People Can Get Involved Locally

One of the core messages of IVY26 is that everyone has something to contribute. Getting involved does not require a large time commitment or specialized experience. People can participate in ways that fit their lives and circumstances.

Here are a few ways individuals can engage locally:

• Connect with a local volunteer centre: Volunteer centres help match people with opportunities in their community and often provide training and support. In the South Okanagan and Similkameen People can contact South Okanagan Similkameen Community Connections Volunteer Centre at www.volunteercentre.info

• Participate in community events: Many communities will host volunteer fairs, recognition events, and service projects throughout 2026, including during National Volunteer Week in April.

• Participate in Volunteer Canada Initiatives such as "Find Your Thing" Challenge,

   Today is increasingly flexible, with options that include in-person, virtual, short-term, and project-based opportunities. IVY26 helps spotlight this diversity, making it easier for people to find ways to contribute that feel meaningful and sustainable

• Support volunteerism at work or school: Encourage employers or educational institutions to participate through volunteer days, group activities, or skills-based volunteering.

• Share volunteer stories: As Part of 365 Stories of Civic Action Highlighting personal experiences can inspire others to get involved and help make volunteer contributions more visible. Go to Volunteer Canadas website https://ivy26.ca/share-your-story/ to record you story.

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Looking Beyond 2026

While IVY26 takes place over one year, its impact is intended to last well beyond 2026. By strengthening volunteer systems, recognizing contributions, and encouraging inclusive participation, the International Year of Volunteers aims to create lasting improvements in how communities support and value volunteer engagement.

At its heart, IVY26 is a reminder that meaningful change often starts locally — with people giving their time, skills, and care to causes they believe in. Whether you are a long-time volunteer or someone considering getting involved for the first time, 2026 is an opportunity to be part of a global movement rooted in local action.