The world goes "crazy" for International Volunteer Managers Day on November 5

Volunteer Centers and other volunteer involving organizations all over the world celebrated the much overlooked volunteer manager on November 5, under the slogan of "Go Crazy".

In the United Kingdom, to coincide with International Volunteer Managers’ Day a brand new edition of The Complete Volunteer Management Handbook was launched by the Directory of Social Change (DSC) in association with Volunteering England.

Volunteering New Zealand also used IVMD to launch a new best practices guide, and Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Jo Goodhew endorsed the day, saying volunteer management "takes a special set of leadership and management skills".

Meanwhile in Canada, Ottawa Administrators of Volunteer Resources hosted an IVMD event at the Lieutenant's Pump, and Volunteering MBC put out this video tribute to the people who keep the cogs of volunteerism turning:

Rightly, people recognize the contribution of volunteers in sport, health, emergency services, faith communities and the environmental movement. But volunteering does not succeed in a vacuum. Behind this army of volunteers lies an equally dedicated group of individuals and agencies who are responsible for the coordination, support, training, administration and recruitment of the world's volunteers - skilled professionals who are adept at taking singular passion and turning it into effective action.

IVMD is a time to celebrate the terrific role that volunteer leaders around the world play in facilitating effective volunteering. This year the theme was "Leaders of Volunteers: Who Else Could Do That?". The IVM Day team released a number of tools to help their partners promote the day. Joining the cause, Volunteering Qld TV produced a series of video teasers to advertise IVMD and Energize, Inc. designed a digital thank-you card for leaders of volunteers.

International Volunteer Managers Day is celebrated every year on November 5. It is important to let those professionals know that the spirit of volunteerism is enhanced and enabled by them - and to thank them, and educate others about this important work. Whether you are an administrator, a volunteer, a community leader or someone who receives the benefit of volunteer help, make sure the people who act as leaders and catalysts get the recognition they deserve!