2024 marked a significant milestone for iVolunteer Philippines: its 15th anniversary. Throughout the year, the organization continued its mission of connecting Filipino volunteers with meaningful opportunities to #DiscoverNew, navigating leadership transitions, and adapting to the evolving landscape of volunteerism. Judith Apolinario-Follero assumed the role of Executive Director, leading iVolunteer through a year of both growth and adaptation.

Strong Engagement and Impact:

Across the four quarters of 2024, iVolunteer engaged a remarkable 8,528 Filipinos in volunteer service through its website, ambassador network, and corporate partnerships. Website sign-ups alone totaled 5,044, translating to a contribution of 577,967 volunteer hours shared across various communities. iVolunteer collaborated with a network of 40 NGOs, providing support and facilitating connections between these organizations and eager volunteers. The organization offered a diverse array of volunteering opportunities, demonstrating a commitment to matching volunteer skills and interests with community needs.

Financial Support and Resource Allocation:

iVolunteer facilitated the channeling of crucial resources to communities in need. A total of Php 471,224 worth of donations supported disaster relief efforts, educational initiatives, and community development projects. iVolunTree for Christmas campaigns continued to be a successful avenue for collecting donations and fulfilling the wishes of 15 partner communities both in Manila and Davao.

Investing in Volunteer Development:

iVolunteer’s commitment to volunteer development was evident through a range of programs and initiatives. Webinars like “Start Your Adventure” introduced aspiring volunteers to the world of service, while programs like “Uswag Pakigdait” provided ongoing support and a community platform for volunteer leaders. The Social Innovation Challenge fostered creativity and innovation among volunteers, while the Bayani Learning Series equipped NGO partners with essential skills in areas like volunteer engagement, legal compliance, fundraising, and social media marketing.

In December, DestiNasyon: Finding Your Advocacy was held simultaneously in Manila and Davao as part of International Volunteer Day celebration. Hundreds of volunteers participated in the celebration as they the chance to interact with different development sector leaders. Five new volunteer role models, known as the iVolunteer Champions, were recognized in DestiNasyon: Champion for Inclusivity: Celine Guillermo (Tinataingi Project), Champion for Nationalism: Armyr Encarnacion (JCI Batangas Balisong), Champion for Professionalism: Ryan Juntilla Madamba (Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation), Champion for Change Leadership: James Nathaniel Refugio (City Government of Naga), and Champion for Integrity: Paolo Miguel Ordonio (Break The Fake Movement).

Strengthening Partnerships and Expanding Reach:

iVolunteer prioritized building and strengthening partnerships with NGOs, corporations, and government agencies. Partner Appreciation Nights and regular NGO meet-ups facilitated collaboration and resource sharing within the development sector. Corporate partnerships with organizations like PHINMA, De La Salle University, Mapua Malayan Colleges of Mindanao, AXA, Cognizant, Insular Foundation, Key Media, First Focus, Enshored, DCX, RareJob, WizardOfAds, WhenInManila.Com, Mommy Bloggers, and The Lasallian provided valuable volunteering opportunities for employees. The signing of a memorandum of agreement with the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency solidified iVolunteer’s commitment to collaborative efforts in promoting volunteerism nationwide. Participation in key forums and events, like the General Assembly of Youth Service Philippines, the SDG Action Summit, Filipino Youth Empowerment Alliance and International Youth Day celebrations, allowed iVolunteer to advocate for volunteerism and connect with diverse audiences.

Looking Ahead:

As iVolunteer Philippines celebrates 15 years of service, the organization remains dedicated to its mission of empowering Filipinos to make a difference through volunteerism. By adapting to evolving needs, strengthening partnerships, and investing in volunteer development, iVolunteer is poised to continue playing a vital role in building stronger, more resilient communities across the Philippines. The insights gained from the National Volunteer Study, conducted during the year, will further inform iVolunteer’s strategic direction and enhance its ability to connect volunteers with meaningful opportunities in the years to come.

Volunteer now via http://www.ivolunteer.com.ph.