In 2000, ten million people volunteered to support the immunization of 550 million children as part of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. Most of them were concerned citizens, volunteering in their own communities. They gave their time to ensure that children reported to immunization stations, were properly documented, and received the oral vaccine. The total value of the support provided by volunteers was estimated at US$ 10 billion, well beyond the reach of governments or international and national organizations.

The example illustrates well how the solidarity and creativity of millions of volunteers are key to achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

In this section, read about various initiatives worldwide in which volunteers contribute towards building a healthy, better world. Also featured here are related events and resources, including opportunities for volunteer health workers.

If you have any news, press releases, events, documents, links or other information resources related to this topic, send them to us at info@worldvolunteerweb.org and we will post them here.