Celebrate National Volunteer Week!

• April 2, 2026

  Posted by: Corinne Napper

National Volunteer Week takes place the week of April 19th to 25th, 2026. This year's theme is Ignite Volunteerism!

Volunteers are the sparks that bring our communities to life.

This year has also been recognized as the International Year of the Volunteer! Volunteer Canada is inviting people from all backgrounds to "Find Your Thing." This campaign highlights the many personal ways people contribute to their communities and encourages others to spark that same sense of curiosity, connection, and discovery.

What can you do to celebrate volunteers between April 19th to 25th, 2026?

Here are some ideas:

🔥 Post on social media using Volunteer Canada's Campaign Kit, don't forget to tag us @volunteermanitoba 😉
🔥 Use our free template to make certificates of appreciation for your volunteers!
🔥 Hand write a thank you message to your volunteers; for larger organizations - print your own cards with group photos!
🔥 Provide small tokens of appreciation you can purchase on the Volunteer Canada website..
🔥 Host a Volunteer Appreciation Event, it can be small gathering during a volunteer shift!
🔥 Use the templates from Volunteer Canada's website!

Even more ways to show your volunteers how much you appreciate them!

Volunteer Appreciation Events: Host a special event or gathering to honour volunteers. This could range from a simple luncheon to a formal awards ceremony (like the Annual Volunteer Awards, hosted by Volunteer Manitoba), providing an opportunity to express gratitude, share stories, and celebrate achievements.

Volunteer Tours: Volunteers are usually your organization's biggest fans, so reward them with exclusive behind-the-scenes tours. Whether in a historic building or an outdoor venue, there's always something exciting to share. Even mundane areas can be interesting to those who are not familiar with it. These tours can be memorable and enjoyable and turn volunteers into advocates, equipping them with stories and insights about your mission.

Inspire Volunteers: share some inspirational quotes about volunteerism with this free Canva.com template.

Skill Development Opportunities: Invest in volunteers' personal and professional development by offering training workshops, skill-building sessions, or access to resources that enhance their abilities and broaden their impact.

Public Recognition: Showcase volunteers' contributions through press releases, newsletters, or community publications. By shining a spotlight on their efforts, you not only honour their work but also inspire others to get involved and raise awareness about your cause!

Flexible Volunteer Opportunities: Recognize that volunteers have diverse interests, skills, and availability. Offer flexible volunteer opportunities that cater to different schedules and preferences, ensuring that everyone can contribute in a way that aligns with their passions and abilities.

Support your volunteers by acknowledging and assisting with their public transportation costs: Many volunteers rely on the bus system, if your organization is able, supply them with bus tickets for their volunteer shifts.

Continuous Feedback and Support: Foster open communication with volunteers, seeking their input, feedback, and suggestions for improvement. Providing ongoing support and guidance demonstrates a commitment to their success and well-being.

Long-term Engagement: Recognize that volunteer appreciation is not limited to a single week but should be an ongoing effort. Cultivate a culture of gratitude and recognition within your organization or community, fostering a sense of belonging and friendship among volunteers.

Something to keep in mind: Changes in Recognition Preferences!

You know it's important to recognize and appreciate your volunteers to keep them motivated and committed however, the way that your volunteers want to be recognized may have changed. Be sure you are aware of the ways YOUR volunteers would like to be acknowledged for their contributions. Be sure to ask them - you may be surprised! ~ Tip from Sammy Feilchenfeld, CVA, Volunteer Toronto

Many Thanks!

We really appreciate everything the volunteers in Manitoba do because, just like the ripple effect of waves, every little thing they do makes a big difference in our community and province. We're also thankful for all the hard work and heart of volunteer leaders everywhere.

Thank you to all volunteers and Leaders of Volunteers!

 

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