Kindness conquers is a phrase that gets used a lot today. And an international day of giving is taking place to encourage others to express their gratitude to volunteers who dedicate their time and efforts to contributing to their communities.
International Volunteer Day is a global platform for expressing gratitude to volunteers and showcasing their invaluable contributions.
Defence workers Leonardo pledge to support volunteer work in the community through their roles, and said: "On International Volunteer Day, we take the opportunity to celebrate and thank our people who dedicate their precious time and efforts volunteering for a diverse range of important causes.
"Volunteering has so many benefits, from being a part of the community, having fun, socialising, personal development, being a part of the community and making a difference."
But what do we know about the annual event? Read on to find out more.
What is it and when is it?
International Volunteer Day for 2023 is taking place on Tuesday December 5.
It is a day celebrated around the world after it was created by the United Nations. The first ever International Volunteer Day was held on 1985 and the day "aims to inspire individuals to engage in volunteer work, showcasing the transformative power of collective action in addressing pressing issues such as poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and more".
The day pays homage to the millions of volunteers who dedicate their time, skills and resources to make a positive difference around the world.
What is the theme for 2023?
This year, the United Nations is asking people to "ponder the conundrum: ‘If everyone did…’"
A spokesman said: "The one billion people who volunteer across the globe are already answering that question very clearly. It is a recognition that change starts with one person: including volunteering as an act of kindness or as a moment of selflessness or as an expression of engagement and advocacy."
How to get involved
The United Nations is encouraging people to sign up to join the UN Volunteers programme. Alternatively people can search for local volunteering opportunities in their local area.
The National Council for Voluntary Organisations has top tips on how to start your volunteering journey.
Its site says: "Volunteering can make a real difference in your own life and the lives of those around you. There are loads of ways to get involved and plenty of organisations that can help you find your dream role.
"Think about what interests or excites you. This could be something you enjoyed doing before, or something completely new.
Think about what time or skills you can give. With so many opportunities to choose from, it's a great idea to narrow down the choices by deciding what you're willing to give."
It encourages people to get researching and look for roles available by either searching online, asking friends what they do or by attending a volunteering or job centre for volunteering opportunities.
