International Volunteer Managers Day 2024: What’s Our Future Normal?

Today, 5th of November 2024, we celebrate the 25th International Volunteer Managers’ Day (IVMDay). This year’s theme is “What’s our future normal?” It encourages us to think about the changing world of volunteer management and how Volunteers and Volunteer Leaders play a key role in shaping national strategies.

As we celebrate this milestone, we look ahead to a future where volunteer management is recognised and supported in community organisations. Imagine a world where volunteer managers receive fair pay, have opportunities for regular training, and are celebrated for their essential contributions. This vision highlights the need for management teams to have enough resources and time to engage meaningfully with their volunteers.

In recent years, the sector has faced many challenges due to the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Community organisations are dealing with funding shortages and resource gaps while trying to meet growing service demands. Despite these challenges, Volunteering New Zealand & Volunteering Mid & South Canterbury believes that volunteer managers are changemakers who can create a better future.

This IVMDay lets us recognise the achievements of volunteer managers and helps us take steps towards a better, more supported normal. Through advocacy and support, Volunteering New Zealand aims to ensure that the voices and rights of volunteers are heard and that the volunteer sector gets the visibility and resources it needs.

As we move forward, let’s honour the resilience and dedication of volunteer managers everywhere. Together, we can make a future where effective volunteer management is a part of our communities.