10th Anniversary of International Year of Volunteers (IYV + 10)

The United Nations (UN) through a Resolution passed on November 20, 1977 proclaimed the Year 2001 as the International Year of Volunteers (IYV + 10). This action of the UN paved the way for greater opportunities and more visible and meaningful application of volunteerism in developmental and humanitarian projects as a strategy for development. In support of the global theme "Volunteering for the MDGs" and in response to the call of the UN for support and participation in the yearlong celebration in the Philippines, Presidential Proclamation No. 92 dated January 10, 2011 was signed by His Excellency President Benigno S. Aquino III declaring the year 2011 as the 10th Anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers (IYV +10).

The government initiated the organization of IYV + 10 National Committee chaired by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and composed of representatives from the government and private sectors for the yearlong celebration with the slogan "Build Hope, Change Lives: Volunteer." The National Committee prepared the Indicative Action Plans for the celebration which can serve as a guide where volunteering activities and projects can address the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

The 10th Anniversary celebration's main objective is to enhance volunteerism in all its forms in terms of the following:

1. Recognition: acknowledge value of volunteerism;
2. Facilitation: ensure volunteer opportunities for diverse people;
3. Networking: strengthen partnerships, exchange experiences; and
4. Promotion: promote inclusive and representative volunteerism.
   

Further, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) will conduct an IYV + 10 Partner's Forum for Networking and MDG8 on September 2011 with the theme, "Global Partnership for Development." This will be graced by various education line agencies, partners from the Local Government Units (LGUs), private sector and the academe. The Adopt-A-School Program (ASP) of the Department will also be showcased in this activity as part of the DepEd's initiative in having strong partnership with the private sector and the individuals.

In view of this, all education officials are encouraged to actively participate in volunteerism and conduct volunteer activities in line with the celebration of IYV + 10.

For inquiries and further information, contact the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) Office at telephone nos.: (02) 381-0559, (02) 434-7139, (02) 927-6847 or visit the following websites: http://www.pnvsca.gov.ph or http://www.unv.org.ph or send a message through e-mail address: ppis.pnvsca@yahoo.com or unvgroup.ph@yndp.org.
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