2026 is officially the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development as declared by the United Nations General Assembly. This year-long initiative aims to recognise, promote and strengthen the vital role volunteers play in building resilient communities, addressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development. 2026 is a major global effort to encourage more people to give back, offering an opportunity to explore how volunteering is evolving.

Australia is doing its bit with National  Volunteer Week,  Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering. It recognises the contribution of millions of volunteers across the country and invites everyone to discover how giving their time and skills can create connection, purpose and stronger communities.

If you click on Volunteering in the menu,  you can read about some of our amazing volunteers who have given service at our two overseas centres, Raphael in India and Klibur Domin in Timor-Leste. So many say that they have come away so enriched by their time volunteering at either of our two overseas centres. Thank you to each of you for doing work ‘for the relief of suffering without discrimination.’

Thank you to all our local volunteers who keep the mission of Ryder-Cheshire alive in a myriad of ways – raising the profile, engaging in fundraising, writing minutes, taking photos, speaking to groups, engaging with students at schools, being a sponsor, working on committees, and so much more. This year is a moment in time to say ‘Thank You’ to those of you who already give time and energy, and to invite others to discover how volunteering can create connection, purpose and lasting positive change.

If you or your family or friends are interested in volunteering at Raphael or Klibur Domin please talk to us.

For contact detail go to  ryder-cheshire.org