2026 is a significant year for us and for the community and voluntary sector. It is International Volunteer Year, as declared by the UN. This is a pretty big moment for anyone who cares about stronger, more resilient communities (that’s us!) and, as well as celebrating volunteering, it will be a catalyst to call for more investment and support for volunteering.
Volunteers are the heartbeat of so much good mahi. They’re the ones who show up in tough times, stick around for the long haul, and help drive real progress toward global goals. IVY2026 is all about shining a light on that contribution and making sure volunteers are recognised, supported, kept safe, and truly included. It’s also a chance to explore how volunteering is changing, share what we’re learning, and celebrate every kind of contribution, whether it’s formal, informal, big, small… every bit counts.
We’d love our volunteers to be part of this year-long kaupapa with us. Haere mai – come along for the journey with Volunteering Canterbury.
