Volunteer and make 2026 the year you do something amazing!

Whether you’re thinking about volunteering for the first time, returning after a break, or you’re an organisation looking to recruit and support volunteers, ACVO is here to help.

This year has an extra buzz, with the United Nations designating 2026 as International Volunteer Year. It’s a global celebration of volunteering and a brilliant opportunity to recognise just how much volunteers contribute to communities locally, nationally and across the world.

International Volunteer Year 2026

International Volunteer Year highlights the crucial role volunteering plays in tackling challenges, strengthening communities and supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It’s about championing volunteering in all its forms, recognising the contribution volunteers make, and making sure volunteering is inclusive, supported and accessible for everyone.

Here in Aberdeen, volunteers are often described as the golden thread running through our communities - connecting people, organisations and ideas, and making so much positive work possible.

We see that impact every single day. From one-off events to long term roles, volunteers support charities, community groups and services that simply couldn’t operate without them. Every contribution matters and the collective impact is fabulous.

As Volunteering Services Manager at ACVO, I’m delighted that we’re supporting International Volunteer Year and helping to champion the fantastic volunteers we have across Aberdeen. It’s also a great chance to encourage more people to get involved and see first-hand just how rewarding volunteering can be.

Students & volunteering

Students contribute hugely to volunteering in Aberdeen, and national Student Volunteering Week which takes place this month is a great opportunity to recognise this.

Volunteering alongside studies helps students build skills, confidence and experience, while making a real difference in the city.

Along with a range of charities and voluntary organisations, the ACVO team will be at the University of Aberdeen Volunteering Fair on Thursday 19 February 11.30am - 3.00pm, at Elphinstone Hall - please do come along, say hello, and have a chat with us about the brilliant range of opportunities available.

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Want to get involved and make a difference?

If you’re interested in volunteering, visit Volunteer Aberdeen to explore the latest opportunities in your community. Organisations can also submit opportunities, visit volunteeraberdeen.org.uk for further details.

Stay informed with ACVO’s So Why Don’t You... programme on SHMU Community Radio, broadcast live every Friday from 2 to 3 pm. Episodes are also available on demand at acvo.org.uk/sowhydontyou.

If you’re aged 11-25, ACVO coordinates the Saltire Awards locally - recognising young volunteers for 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 500 hours of service. Find info and get involved at saltireawards.scot.

Join ACVO and over 200 Scottish organisations as a Volunteer Charter Champion by pledging support at volunteerscotland.net.

For info on the Volunteering Action Plan for Scotland, involvement opportunities, and volunteer recruitment tips, volunteeringactionplan.co.uk.

As always, feel free to get in touch with me if you have any questions around volunteering at mike.melvin@acvo.org.uk

Get involved: Volunteer in Aberdeen!

There are hundreds of different ways you can give your time as a volunteer in Aberdeen! The great thing about volunteering is that it is so inclusive, no matter your experience, time you have to give or age, there is a volunteer opportunity to suit you and an organisation in Aberdeen that would really value your contribution.

Have a look below at some of our recently added opportunities and discover how you can make a big difference in your local community!