11 saved#4,905 of 4,817

National Volunteer Week

Lend a hand, change a life! Embrace the spirit of giving during National Volunteer Week and make a difference in your community.

Sunday

18–24

April 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATENational Volunteer Week (3rd Sun Apr, 7-day)

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPhilanthropy

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Embrace the spirit of giving and join hands with others around the globe during National Volunteer Week starting on April 21. Since its inception in 1974, this week-long celebration has been at the forefront in honoring those who take out time from their busy lives to bring about a change in the world. It's a fun-filled, heartwarming week where we can all make a push to engage in acts of volunteerism and inspire others to do the same. Time to roll up those sleeves and dive into the world of social service, making the world a brighter, happier place!

TIMELINE

National Volunteer Week Timeline

Establishment of National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week was established by Presidential Proclamation to celebrate volunteerism in the United States.

Recognition Act Passed

The House of Representatives passed Resolution 43 to further recognize National Volunteer Week, encouraging more citizens to engage in acts of service.

Volunteerism Peaks

Thanks to various awareness campaigns, volunteerism in the U.S. reached an all-time high with nearly half of all adult Americans involved in some form of volunteer work.

Corporations Join the Cause

Corporations started to promote employee volunteerism with company-led projects and charitable donations, further increasing participation during National Volunteer Week.

Volunteerism in Pandemic

During the Global COVID-19 pandemic, volunteers played a crucial role in helping communities cope, demonstrating the importance and impact of volunteer work.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Volunteer Week

Lead a community project

Show your leadership skills by organizing a community-wide project. It could be anything from a clean-up drive, tree planting activity, or a local fundraising event. Encourage neighbors, friends, and family to participate.

JOIN

Join or plan a volunteering fair

Invite local charities and organizations to introduce their causes and needs. It's the perfect opportunity for those interested in volunteering but unsure of where to start. Plan some festive activities, food vendors, and entertainment to make it fun!

CREATE

Create care packages

Gather some friends and assemble care packages. One could prepare packages for the homeless with essentials like toothpaste, soap, or even hand warmers. Elaborate packages could include toys for less fortunate children or food packages for struggling families.

DONATE

Donate your skills

Volunteering is not limited to physical work; it can also be about donating your skills. If you're good at teaching, offer tutoring services to those in need. If you're skilled in arts, organize a free art class. There's always a way to contribute no matter what your ability is.

APPRECIATE

Appreciate other volunteers

On this week, show your gratitude to the people who've been selflessly volunteering their time and efforts. Surprise them with a small thank you note or token of appreciation. Your gesture will also motivate others to volunteer and serve the community.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Volunteer Week is Important

It encourages unity

National volunteer week brings people together to work towards a common goal, fostering unity and cohesion in social service. It creates a chain reaction, encouraging others to step forward and help those in need, hence making the world a happier, brighter place.

It promotes the spirit of giving

National Volunteer Week is all about encouraging people to engage in acts of kindness and contribute to their communities. It's a special moment when individuals can come together, lend a hand, and bring about positive changes around them.

It honors generous hearts

Since its inception, this week-long celebration has been at the forefront of recognizing individuals who've taken the time out of their busy lives to create a difference. It's a chance to applaud their selfless actions and inspire others to follow suit.

Related holidays

Volunteers’ Week

Volunteers' Week is the perfect time to recognize and thank the amazing individuals who selflessly give their time and talents for a good cause. Join us in celebrating these unsung heroes!

Volunteer Recognition Day

On Volunteer Recognition Day, let's honor the selfless individuals who make a difference in our communities - thank you for all that you do!

National Volunteers Month

Let's give a big round of applause to all the amazing volunteers out there - thank you for making a difference in our communities!

National Student Volunteer Day

Join the movement and make a difference on National Student Volunteer Day - find volunteer opportunities and give back to your community!

91Read

FOR MARKETERS & CREATORS

Turn every day into a moment your audience actually shows up for.

8.4M

Monthly readers

5K+

Holidays tracked

Holiday Calendar for Brands Developer API