volunteerInternational Volunteers Day (IVD) is an international observance that was mandated by the UN General Assembly in 1985. The Day is an opportunity for us all to promote volunteerism, encourage governments to support volunteer efforts, and recognize volunteer contributions to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at local, national, and international levels.

It is imprinted in all of us, as social beings, to connect with each other. While COVID-19 has self-isolated billions of people, it has prompted millions to volunteer in many innovative ways — from making face masks to helping elderly neighbors with shopping to virtual concerts and Zumba classes. Despite the COVID-19 Pandemic, volunteering for others has continued to thrive as people find new means of connecting and giving their time and skills because volunteering, by nature, is also uniquely flexible. People from all backgrounds and walks of life sign up to support a wide range of organizations across social, economic, and environmental development.

However, it is important that you should only volunteer if you’re feeling well and do not have any symptoms of coronavirus such as high temperature and a new and persistent cough. Remember, no one should be put under pressure to volunteer. The advice for individuals who are extremely vulnerable and previously shielding or in an ‘at increased risk group’ who have decided to volunteer is to strictly follow social distancing guidance. If you are able to volunteer to deliver shopping or medicines to a friend or a neighbor, please do not put yourself or the person you are caring for at risk. You should always observe physical distancing and strict handwashing guidance.

On a positive note, not all volunteering opportunities during this COVID-19 Pandemic involve going outside. One of the most important things you can do during the coronavirus pandemic is to stay in touch with other people like family, friends, neighbors, and acquaintances. While you are staying at home, you can help people by volunteering to make calls, either over the phone or via social media. A ‘hello’ or check-in over the phone can be really important, but please stay safe on social media.

Here are some other suggestions on ways to volunteer during this Pandemic:

  • Become a virtual companion to lonely seniors.
  • Make masks for health care workers.
  • Staff a crisis center remotely.
  • Donate your time as a virtual student mentor.
  • Give blood while maintaining social distancing.
  • Make hand sanitizer for others.
  • Drive or collect donations.
  • Help pick up grocery orders and order essentials.
  • Be the eyes for someone who is blind.
  • Help with local virtual volunteering needs.

Volunteering may promote well-being, in particular among those with few social connections. By extending their networks through volunteering, people can feel part of a community that increases their social capital (e.g. resources or contacts they can turn to for assistance). Establishing social ties generates trust, prompting people to feel more secure.

Let’s make International Volunteer Day this year a worldwide moment to thank volunteers and celebrate their efforts despite all the challenges at hand.

You too can be a Volunteer! #LeoChristianLauzon