MONDAY IS United Nations International Volunteer
Day (IVD).
First celebrated in 1995, the occasion of December 5 recognises the contribution of 'voluntary efforts' to nation building and development.
Kemal Dervis, administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), during his presentation on Monday, will point out that "promoting volunteerism, strengthening the support provided to volunteers, and recognising the contributions of volunteers are vital if the ultimate goals of fighting crime and poverty are to realised".
Mr. Dervis challenges governments of both rich and poor countries, as well as stakeholders and the entire U.N., to give more opportunity for people to contribute to development through volunteerism.
BEST OPPORTUNITY
Project coordinator of the Council of Voluntary Services (CVSS) and head of the IVD's secretariat in Jamaica, Joan McDonald, said, "The day provides the best opportunity to showcase the contribution of volunteers to society."
Furthermore, she added, it is a time to recognise voluntary action by institutions and individual volunteers.
"It is a time to consolidate networks of volunteers and to complete worthwhile projects," she said.
This year's national theme is 'Volunteer and Secure Jamaica's Future', and among the day's activities is the Trelawny Association of Volunteer Organisation's (TAVO) banquet and awards ceremony to be held at
Starfish hotel.
Back in 2004, TAVO received the U.N.'s prestigious, listing, 'A City With A Heart'.
Falmouth, the parish's capital, was one of just five cities worldwide to share the award. TAVO was recognised for its strong and well-organised network of voluntary organisations, which originated from its participation in the U.N.'s 'Support to Intercity Volunteerism' project.
Awardees at TAVO's banquet this year will be in the areas of youth development, culture, social development, HIV/AIDS awareness and the advancement of women.
TAVO's chairman, Carlton Gordon, said the event will also serve as a fund-raiser for a central information centre to provide access to information on the social, economic, political and geographical, life of the parish.
J. C.
For more information, contact: Trelawny Association of Organisations. Telephone: 617-5221.
