Celebrate International Volunteer Managers Day 2026
International Volunteer Managers Day (IVMDay) is an opportunity to recognise the people who lead, support and develop volunteers.
This year, we’re encouraging organisations to Support, Grow and Celebrate their volunteer leaders. Our IVMDay 2026 resource brings together practical ways to get involved, including professional development opportunities, recognition ideas, a global virtual celebration and the Volunteering SA&NT IVMDay event for members!
IVMDay was founded and observed for the first time in 1999. The push for IVMDay was led by American Nan Hawthorn who helped form a committee to explore a day recognising the work of Volunteer Managers. IVMDay was developed in order to bring recognition to individual Managers of Volunteers and their roles in the mobilisation and support of the world’s volunteers.
This year’s theme, Legacy and Leadership: Honouring the Past, Present and Future, recognises the people who have shaped volunteer management, those leading with skill and purpose today, and those who will carry the profession forward
Every day, volunteer administrators connect people, purpose, and community. They inspire action, mobilize talent, and create opportunities for individuals to make a meaningful difference.
International Volunteer Managers Day (IVMDay) is a global celebration of these dedicated professionals whose leadership makes volunteerism possible. Since 1999, IVMDay has recognized the vital role volunteer managers play in strengthening organisations, empowering volunteers, and building stronger communities around the world.
On November 5, we invite organisations, volunteers, and community leaders everywhere to join us in celebrating the people behind the volunteer experience. Together, we honor their expertise, commitment, and impact – and champion the profession of volunteer leadership. Join the global movement and help shine a spotlight on the leaders who make volunteerism thrive.
Celebrate. Recognise. Advocate
To amplify this year’s theme, we invite you to spotlight someone in the volunteer administration profession who has made an impact on your journey. This could be someone from the past or present, or an emerging leader in the field who has influenced your practice, inspired your growth, or helped shape your approach to volunteer engagement and leadership.
Other ways to celebrate:
- Coincide annual conferences to fall on IVMDay and then make it a feature of the program.
- Remember to send a thank you message to the extended group of staff in your organistion who support the work of volunteers.
- Send an e-card to your peers and colleagues.
- Host a morning or afternoon tea event or mention the day in a newsletter.
- Promote the day on social media.
For more ideas and resources for IVMDay, click here.