Celebrating International Volunteer Day: Recognizing the Power of Volunteering
The Dominica Red Cross Society (DRCS) wishes to honour all its volunteers in celebration of International Volunteer Day which is observed today under the theme #Hope. It’s an opportunity to celebrate and thank all our volunteers who dedicate their precious time and efforts to voluntary service. Hope symbolizes what Red Cross brings to the vulnerable, the human kindness to alleviate suffering and for a better life.
This kindness and #Hope are what many in our world today, amidst the wars and natural disasters, yearn for. The challenge is placed on humanitarian organizations like the Red Cross and Red Crescent to respond by bringing the message of #Hope through our volunteers all over the world. Our volunteers put their lives at risk in many countries every day in an effort to alleviate the suffering of individuals. Presently, we see the volunteers in the Israeli/Gaza war assisting those who are suffering and closer to home one of our very own Dominica Red Cross Society volunteer, Mr. Dante Moses is in Hungary assisting in the International Federation of Red Cross & Red Crescent response efforts to the Russia/Ukraine war. We salute all our volunteers worldwide.
According to the President of the Dominica Red Cross Society……” Volunteers carries out 90% of the humanitarian work of the Red Cross which includes various roles. Volunteers provide comfort and care to people on the move. Leading community campaigns so people know how to live long productive and healthy lives. Also providing search and rescue efforts and reuniting families in the wake of a disaster.”
The role of a volunteer is to provide unpaid help to people, communities, organizations, and businesses to assist them in performing activities, or services to the benefit of others. Volunteering isn’t just about giving back to your community. It’s also about learning new skills, making lifelong friends and being part of the world’s largest humanitarian network striving for a safe and peaceful world.
Our more than 16 million volunteers worldwide including 300 local volunteers are the beating heart of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. From those who serve as members of the Governing Board giving their time and skills without seeking recognition or compensation to the many branch members and leaders who tirelessly do the same, to the volunteers on the ground who impact the lives of individuals and communities every day.
As the Dominica Red Cross Society celebrate its 65th Anniversary this year, we feel honored to have had volunteers throughout the years giving this dedicated service to the vulnerable through our many programmes in our communities. We salute our many Volunteers.
A Happy International Volunteer Day to all.
This article is copyright © 2023 DOM767
