April is Global Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate volunteers and inspire volunteering in large and small communities.
Volunteering is on the decline, according to research from AmeriCorps and the U.S. Census Bureau. Additionally, Points of Light, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring, equipping, and mobilizing people to take actions that change the world, reported that 73% of people believe volunteering is more important than ever, but 66% feel they cannot make a significant impact in their communities. During Global Volunteer Month, advocates are working to change this perception at the local level.
“Volunteers are crucial to solving urgent challenges, creating vibrant communities, and strengthening our social fabric,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, President and CEO of Points of Light. “Every person has something to share or give.”
To increase volunteer engagement during Global Volunteer Month, Points of Light is sharing the following ways you and your family can make a positive impact in your neighborhood or city:
Spread the word: Use the Global Volunteer Month toolkit along with the hashtag #GlobalVolunteerMonth to thank volunteers. Be sure to tag a volunteer whose impact you appreciate.
Make the commitment: To show your commitment to volunteering, sign the Points of Light pledge. Then, discover ways to get involved that support your favorite cause and your availability using Points of Light Engage, a database with hundreds of thousands of volunteer opportunities worldwide, including some in your area. Remember, volunteering doesn’t have to be through a formal organization. Reaching out to help a friend, family member, or neighbor counts too. In fact, 70% of volunteer work is done locally and informally, without the involvement of any organization, according to the UN.
Expand your impact: Learn about the Points of Light Civic Circle, a framework that outlines the many forms of civic engagement. These actions include listening and learning, using one’s own voice, social entrepreneurship, volunteering, public service, national or military service, using purchasing power to express values, working, voting, and donating.
Get inspired: Points of Light recognizes ordinary people doing extraordinary things to strengthen communities and solve persistent problems with its Daily Point of Light Award. Do you know an exceptional volunteer in your community? Nominate them as a Daily Point of Light by visiting pointsoflight.org/dailypointoflight.
“We are celebrating volunteers around the world throughout the month, as well as calling on people to take action. Throughout April, dedicate your time, talent, and passion to a cause you value and invite others to join you, creating a ripple effect of change,” said Sirangelo.
Source: StatePoint