International Volunteer Day 2022: Thank you!
5 December is International Volunteer Day. On this day each year, volunteers around the world are honoured for their commitment. The Swiss Red Cross (SRC) thanks its many volunteers for their outstanding commitment. They are the very backbone of the Red Cross & Red Crescent Movement.
Siegfried Schiesser is the perfect example. For many years he has been a volunteer driver for the SRC. But he volunteers in so many other ways as well. He mans the Red Cross SOS service alarm and helps with tax declarations and gardening. He is also a member of the ‘Seniors for Seniors’ programme run by Pro Senectute.
“I’m motivated by the sparkle in people's eyes and the huge amount of appreciation they show me,” says Schiesser. In the Fondation Sana video he talks in detail about his voluntary work.
Siegfried Schiesser was recently honoured for his tireless efforts. He was awarded this year’s Prix SanaOpens in a new window by Helsana, an official partner of the SRC.
Almost invisible, yet hugely important
Volunteers are very discreet and are not very visible outside of crises or emergencies. That’s why it is important to remember the significance of this commitment to our society on Volunteer Day.
"Their work is indispensable to us so that we can meet the many global and local challenges we face. On behalf of the Swiss Red Cross, I would like to thank all our volunteers for their enormous commitment. Their work makes a huge difference and is a valuable contribution to greater humanity,” says Barbara Schmid-Federer, the SRC president.
Many different ways to volunteer
In Switzerland, about 50,000 SRC volunteers help others. On behalf of the cantonal associations, they accompany elderly or sick people. They go with them to doctor's appointments or help them with everyday activities. Other volunteers organize activities for asylum-seekers. Or they help children from disadvantaged families with their homework. And the Red Cross rescue organizations train volunteers in rescue operations and first aid. They can then save lives in an emergency.
There are various different opportunities to do voluntary work at the SRC, for all ages. Why not come and join us in the world’s largest voluntary organization?