Global Youth Service Day celebrates and brings together the millions of young people who make a difference in their communities every day through service. Established in 1988, GYSD takes place from April 11-13 as part of National Volunteer Month. Celebration of this event takes place in more than 135 countries making Global Youth Service Day the largest service event in the world. It is also the only day of service dedicated to children and youth. Young people work with schools, youth organizations, nonprofits, community and faith-based organizations, national service programs, government agencies, and adult mentors to address critical issues in an attempt to better their community.
Involvement in this renowned day is occurring all over the world. On March 23rd the Spanish regions of Madrid, Seville, and Zaragoza started a campaign in honor of GYSD that provides rehabilitation services for those living with little resources. This program aims to supply social services to families in need in an attempt to lighten their load.
New Ground, a Muslim Jewish partnership for change in Southern California, is addressing hunger and child abuse through their campaign Change is Good, in honor of Global Youth Service Day. New Ground provides Muslim and Jewish youth with the skills, resources, and relationships needed to improve Muslim-Jewish relations through cooperation on issues of shared concern. In honor of GYSD New Ground is having a food drive to support the hungry, and visiting abused children to ease their suffering.
Even here in Boston people are joining in on the efforts to be a part of this wonderful day. On March 23rd Boston hosted the Homeless Street Ministry on its very own Boston Commons. United Planet is also participating in this celebration by highlighting all of the amazing work our volunteers have done to better other communities.
Wondering how you can celebrate this world renowned event? There are many ways to get involved. Simple ways to get involved in your community can include taking a stand against bullying and getting your school to sign a no-bullying pledge or organizing a food drive for a local food bank or shelter. The possibilities are endless. You can volunteer for a Quest in 1 of 35 countries with United Planet where you’ll have the opportunity to form lasting relationships while working on projects that will impact the lives of others. Global Youth Service Day celebrates the work that young people do every day in their community. This year, how will you make a difference?
ABOUT UNITED PLANET
United Planet is a non-profit organization with a mission to create a global community, one relationship at a time. Established in 2001, United Planet offers volunteer abroad, virtual internships, internships abroad, gap year volunteering, and global virtual exchange in more than 40 countries.
