International Volunteer Managers Day
Universally, people recognise the contribution of volunteers – in sport, health, emergency services, faith communities and the environmental lobby …in fact volunteers are involved in just about every aspect of service delivery in all walks of life. However, volunteering does not succeed in a vacuum.Behind this army of volunteers lies an equally dedicated group of individuals and agencies who are reponsible for the coordination, support, training, administration and recruitment of the world’s volunteers – skilled professionals who are adept at taking singular passion and turning it into effective action.That is why we celebrate International Volunteer Manager Appreciation Day every year on November 1. It is important to let those professionals know that the spirit of volunteerism is enhanced and enabled by them, and to thank them. We urge you to mark your calendar and, whether you are an administrator, a volunteer, a community leader or someone who receives the benefit of volunteer help, to make sure the people who act as leaders and catalysts get the recognition they deserve!
A SHORT HISTORY OF IVMA DAY
International Volunteer Manager Appreciation Day (IVMA Day) was founded and observed for the first time in 1999.It was developed in order to bring recognition to individual managers of volunteer resources and to promote a greater awareness of the catalytic role that VPM’s play in the mobilisation and support of the world’s volunteers.Over the years the day has grown to now receive support by volunteer involving agencies – both large and small – from right around the world.
Up until 2005, IVMA Day shared its day of celebration with International Volunteers Day on December 5. However, in 2006, IVMA Day moved to a stand alone date and was celebrated for the first time on November 1
2006 also saw the formation of a new ‘International Supporters Group’. This specially invited collection of invited key leaders and groups from around the world are helping to spread the word about IVMA Day internationally
Events being held in Australia
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Volunteering SA will be hosting a IVMA Day breakfast on the morning of November 1. Details will be posted here soon or contact Volunteering SA directly for more details The Lyell McEwin Regional Volunteer Association will be holding its AGM on November 2nd and will feature a celebration on the role of volunteer managers in it’s operations as a celebration of IVMA Day
VICTORIA
Vision Australia will be hosting a ‘high tea’ for its volunteer management team on the morning of November 1
This information was taken from the IVMA Day web site which can be visited by clicking on the logo at the top of this page
Maria Strmsek said
I’ve been attempting to initiate a communication and celebration with two of the professional groups I belong to in the Los Angeles, CA area. It seems, we, Volunteer Directors, don’t take time to celebrate the profession we have chosen to be a part of. How did you get the enthusiasm and support you needed from your DVS/managers to create a celebration for IVM? Any information would be appreciated. Thank you.