National Volunteer Week is commemorated every third week of May and this year it will be held on May 18-24. It aims to celebrate volunteers and the marvelous things they’ve helped organizations and individuals achieve. National Volunteer Week celebrates all things related to volunteering. Every year, there is a different theme that guides this week-long celebration. The theme for 2026 is "Ignite Volunteerism" and serves as a call to action to spark passion and encourage more individuals to engage in community service. National Volunteering Week was established in 1974 by a Presidential Proclamation to underline volunteering opportunities for everyone inclined.

The formal practice of volunteering dates back to twelfth-century England, with over 500 hospitals that operated because of volunteers. However, people have likely been helping others for many years before that. In the seventeenth century, the word ‘volunteering’ was used for the first time. The word entered daily vocabulary in the eighteenth century when people began willingly joining military service. Organized volunteering was born from war — young people, women mainly, would come together to help wounded soldiers and collect essential supplies. Officially organized volunteering began in the nineteenth century. For example, the American Red Cross emerged during the American Civil War when people came together to provide medical care under the supervision of Clara Barton.

The Second World War led to another boost in the number of volunteers. However, volunteering efforts became directed overseas; academic institutions and workplaces began sending their students and employees to volunteer.

The development of the internet again changed the nature of volunteering. The connectivity brought allowed individuals and organizations worldwide to collaborate and reach people easily. Today, crowdfunding campaigns, virtual volunteering programs, international volunteering programs, and other such opportunities have become available. Moreover, potential volunteers can now find such listings easily and become aware of the numerous ways by which they can make a difference, thus making volunteering more accessible. Many countries have even recognized specific days or weeks dedicated to raising awareness about volunteering.

All of us at Joslyn Center appreciate our volunteers because they give their time, energy, and compassion to make a difference in the lives of others. Their dedication strengthens our community, supports our mission, and inspires those around them. Volunteers bring kindness, hope, and encouragement, often stepping in wherever help is needed most. Without their commitment and generosity, many programs and services would not be possible. They are the heart of what we do, and their efforts create a lasting impact every day!

Our Joslyn volunteers provide countless hours each week, from working at the front desk, teaching and leading numerous classes and activities to tutoring members through the confusing world of technology and aiding many seniors in their weekly "shopping" trips through our Community Food Bank. Below you will see many of our volunteers from this past week, doing what they do at Joslyn. The next time that you see any of our volunteers at Joslyn, please thank them for what they provide to all of us here. Their service is a great benefit for all of us!

Come volunteer with us! We have many options and the following volunteer positions are available:



Front Desk Receptionist • Community Food Bank Assistance

Class/Program Lead • Event Staff • Community Garden

Morning Bites • Friendly Caller Program • Get Tech Tutor

Would you like to get involved and donate some time to help out at Joslyn in any way? Do you have the skills to teach or lead a new class that could be added to the schedule? Please contact Judy to become a Joslyn Volunteer at (760) 895-4655 or JudyS@JoslynCenter.org.