December 2023

Every year on December 5, the world comes together to celebrate International Volunteer Day. On
this day, at LifeLine International, we will extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated volunteers who
play a crucial role in providing crisis support services for our Members around the globe.

In the midst of our busy lives, it can sometimes feel challenging to find the time to volunteer. Post
COVID-19, it’s become even more of a challenge to make time for others. This makes us even more
grateful to those individuals who volunteer for our Members, and we recognise and thank you for
your ongoing commitment.

For those considering a volunteer role, the rewards of volunteering for crisis support services like
those delivered by LifeLine International’s Members are huge. As the United Nations Volunteers
(UNV) program estimates, there are approximately one billion volunteers globally, and their
contributions are invaluable in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in the
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Volunteering for a crisis support service offers a myriad of benefits, not only to the communities and
individuals receiving assistance but to the volunteers themselves. Benefits of volunteering include:
Connecting to Others: Volunteering provides an opportunity to connect with diverse people,
cultures and communities and build meaningful relationships.

Good for Mind and Body: Engaging in volunteer work has been proven to enhance mental and
physical health, reducing stress and combating depression.

Career Advancement: Volunteers often gain new skills and experiences that can boost their personal
and professional development.

Fulfillment: Volunteering brings purpose and a sense of fulfillment, making a positive impact on
both the volunteer and those they support.

LifeLine International acknowledges the critical role volunteers play in crisis response, especially in
the wake of events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteers are the backbone of civil society’s
community capacity and resources, offering local solutions and engaging those often left furthest
behind. They make a real and tangle difference to people’s lives and accelerate progress toward the
SDGs, helping to address issues like stigma, poor health and education outcomes, and social
exclusion, amongst other social determinants.

On this important day, LifeLine International encourages individuals to become volunteers. Whether
through our Member’s face-to-face, telephone or online services, there are so many ways to
contribute. Volunteering not only allows individuals to give back and make a difference but also
provides opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and increased social inclusion.

As we celebrate International Volunteer Day, we express our deep gratitude to our Member’s
existing volunteers, thank them for their dedication and hard work, and extend an invitation to new
individuals to join in making a positive impact on the lives of those in crisis. Together, we can build a
more resilient, caring and compassionate world.