For more than 40 years, this nationwide event has brought communities and organizations together to recognize and celebrate the achievements of the remarkable people who selflessly volunteer their time to make their community a better place. First established in 1974, National Volunteer Week is run by Points of Light, the world’s largest volunteer organization. This weeklong event continues to grow each year, inspiring thousands of events across the country.
The Volunteer Center celebrates National Volunteer Week April each year to highlight this special week in the volunteering world.
Although it’s called a national event, National Volunteer Week has been observed around the world since 1943. The week occurs at different times in different countries — mostly April – June. The US will celebrate National Volunteer Week in April. It’s organized by the Points of Light foundation, of which the County of Maui Volunteer Center is a member.
Why National Volunteer Week is important
The objective of National Volunteer week is twofold:
- Promote volunteerism in our communities
- Show appreciation for those who give generously of their time
Volunteer Week is a great time to celebrate all the good that the nonprofit organizations and their dedicated volunteers do in our community. It’s also a perfect opportunity to reflect on the benefits that volunteers receive from volunteering.
New statewide focus on National Volunteer Week
Whether you are an individual, an organization, non-profit or business, we’re all stronger when we come together; it’s a kakou thing!
2018 was the first year that Hawaii officially recognized National Volunteer Week through legislative resolution. The focus of this week is to celebrate the impact of volunteer service across Hawaii, to participate by sharing our mana and aloha, and encourage others to join in. Kanu Hawaii and VolunteerWeekHawaii.org hope to partner with events happening on every island to highlight our collective impact for the greater good and foster a shared sense of connectedness among us all.
The County of Maui Volunteer Center supports this new initiative and Kanu Hawaii for taking the leadership role.
How you can get involved
Volunteers: National Volunteer Week is an opportunity for volunteers to get involved in improving their communities. You can get started by perusing the Volunteer Needs posted by our Partner Agencies.
Nonprofits: This is a great time to recognize all of those hardworking volunteers who make your organization great! Need some inspiration? Check out our creative and inexpensive ideas for showing your appreciation.