On December 5th, 2024, Caritas India’s network of dedicated volunteers across the country sprang into action, marking the beginning of a month-long celebration of International Volunteer Day. This year’s theme, “Recognize Volunteers’ Contributions to Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” resonated deeply with Caritas India’s mission of fostering integral human development and social justice.

In Jharkhand, the Gram Nirman project team organized a heartwarming ceremony to felicitate community volunteers. These unsung heroes were recognized for their tireless efforts in transforming their villages. The event wasn’t just about accolades; it also featured engaging team-building exercises, aligning volunteer efforts with broader developmental goals.

The Nongstoin Social Service Society (NSSS) in Meghalaya took a unique approach under the FARM Northeast program to celebrate volunteerism. Youth volunteers gathered for an enlightening session on agriculture and the preservation of indigenous seeds. The highlight was an introduction to NSSS’s impressive collection of native seeds, emphasizing the crucial role of volunteers in protecting traditional agricultural systems.

The FARM North East team led by Guwahati Gana Seva Society (GGSS) orchestrated a powerful demonstration of volunteer impact. Collaborating with local village volunteers, they spotlighted the importance of indigenous paddy varieties, igniting a grassroots movement to safeguard traditional seeds and farming practices.Dulley Taya, a youth volunteer, shared a poignant reflection: “Farming connects us to the roots of Life. Working alongside farmers today taught me how vital they are for our future”.

The SAFBIN Project areas of Madhya Pradesh witnessed a unique blend of International Volunteer Day and World Soil Day celebrations. Activities included educational sessions for Nature Club children on soil types, conservation, and testing, as well as a rally advocating for volunteerism and soil preservation. SHFC farmers demonstrated collective action through Shramdaan, building sack bandhan structures for water conservation. Smt. Saroja Marko, a volunteer, expressed her enthusiasm: “This initiative with farmers and volunteers to create a sack bag dam ensures drinking water for cattle and raises nearby water levels, benefiting Rabi crops. Volunteering in such efforts feels truly rewarding and inspiring”.

Throughout December, Caritas India is organizing a series of impactful activities across the nation, including volunteer training programmes, recognition ceremonies, experience sharing gatherings, capacity-building workshops, cultural events, and awareness campaigns. These initiatives aim to celebrate volunteers’ contributions, enhance their skills, and strengthen their commitment to building a just and inclusive society.

The ongoing celebrations serve as a powerful reminder that when united in service, individuals can drive meaningful change, fostering resilience and hope in communities across India. As we move forward, let us carry the spirit of International Volunteer Day throughout the year, working together towards a more just and inclusive society.