The United Nations (UN) International Volunteer Year 2026
Celebrating BSL volunteer contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The UN General Assembly has declared 2026 as International Volunteer Year for Sustainable Development, recognising the critical role volunteers play in their communities. It’s a global call to action for governments, NGOs, and communities to integrate volunteerism into development strategies. It’s also an opportunity to showcase how volunteers contribute to the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) .
In recognition of this declaration, BSL will be celebrating and highlighting some of our volunteer programs and demonstrating how BSL volunteers contribute toward achieving these globally recognised SDGs.
Learn how volunteering at BSL demonstrates our values in action, and our commitment to poverty reduction and social justice.
SDG 1: END POVERTY.
Meet Volunteer Support Officer, Cathy, and learn how her work enables and supports volunteers to feel connected and included.
SDG 4: QUALITY EDUCATION.
Meet Martin, Wellbeing Practitioner and previous volunteer at David Scott School, describing his experience and contribution toward quality education.
SDG 8: DECENT WORK AND ECONOMIC GROWTH.
Meet Digital Literacy Trainer, Maher, as he describes the importance of digital knowledge and his contribution to supporting people into decent work.
SDG 10: REDUCED INEQUALITIES.
Meet Board Member, Tony, describing the important work BSL volunteers do in reducing inequalities.
SDG 10: REDUCED INEQUALITIES.
Meet Board Member, Rowan, describing the important work BSL volunteers do in reducing inequalities.
SDG 12: RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION.
Meet Retail Assistant, Murray, as he speaks about the important role volunteers play in supporting our many op shops.
SDG 12: RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION.
Meet Inventory Management Support, Susan, as she describes the important work of BSL’s Brotherhood Books.
SDG 3: GOOD HEALTH AND WELLBEING.
Meet Social Activity Companion, Chandra, describing the role of volunteers in Aged Care and the important way they promote wellbeing.