Every year on December 5, the world celebrates International Volunteer Day (IVD)—a moment to recognize the millions of people who dedicate their time and hearts to serving others. Established by the United Nations in 1985, IVD honors volunteers as essential partners in advancing global progress, from strengthening education and health systems to supporting environmental resilience and community development.
At Planet Aid, International Volunteer Day is also a moment to spotlight the individuals who embody this spirit of service through the People to People Volunteer Program—a powerful 10-month journey that prepares volunteers to support community-driven development efforts alongside respected organizations abroad.
One of those volunteers is James Edwards, from the United States. His six months of service in Malawi offer an inspiring look at what meaningful, community-rooted volunteerism truly looks like.
A Journey That Begins With Openness—and One Golden Rule
James admits he was intimidated at first: five days of travel across five different countries on the way to Malawi. But what he discovered immediately was simple: “It went by fast. Most of our flights were on time… it didn’t even feel like five days of travel.” The journey was smoother than expected—even with a dead phone in Tanzania and an overslept alarm.
But for James, the deeper lesson came later:
“I understand that the rest of it is up to me. I have to be willing to do what I can to make the best out of the most difficult situations. I feel that this is one of the golden rules of life’s journey.”
That mindset carried him throughout his service.
Serving Malawi’s Early Childhood Education Centers
Upon arriving in Malawi, James and his team visited several early childhood education centers around the Dzaleka area, many of which have been strengthened over the years by previous volunteers. Seeing this progress firsthand was a reminder of how sustained collaboration—across years, across teams—can transform communities.
Schools like Katsakunya left a deep impression. James described it as “the model school all the other schools should mirror”—a vibrant center with a dedicated tribal leader, an enthusiastic community, and a student-tended garden. Others, like Tsokalabwalo, Byanzi, and Makumbi, showed both tremendous potential and very real needs, from floors and plastering to roofs, kitchens, toilets, and classroom materials.
But James did not experience these challenges alone. He was guided daily by skilled local leaders like Gideon and Diva, whom he praised as “always ready and willing to listen and help out.” Their leadership ensured that work was aligned with community priorities and that volunteers could contribute effectively and respectfully.
This is part of what makes the People to People Volunteer Program unique: volunteers are not left on their own—they are integrated into long-standing, professional, community-led development efforts.
Trusted Partners: Richmond Vale Academy and DAPP Malawi
At the heart of the People to People Volunteer Program are two respected organizations committed to long-term impact.
Richmond Vale Academy (RVA)
Founded in 2002 in the Caribbean nation of St. Vincent & the Grenadines, RVA is a registered non-profit research and training institution that welcomes volunteers from around the world. With programs focused on poverty reduction, environmental conservation, and climate change awareness, RVA equips volunteers with the practical knowledge and global perspective needed to serve effectively.
Through hands-on learning and community engagement, volunteers leave RVA inspired, skilled, and empowered to help build a more sustainable world.
Development Aid from People to People (DAPP) Malawi
DAPP Malawi is a long-established, locally registered NGO whose work dates back to 1995. Since launching its first Child Aid project in Chiradzulu district, DAPP has become a respected leader in Malawi’s development landscape—supporting government efforts across education, health, agriculture, and community development.
DAPP’s early childhood education programs, such as those James supported, help young learners build strong foundations through safe learning spaces, nutrition support, caregiver training, school gardens, and community participation. Volunteers play a supporting role in these locally led efforts, helping with school improvements, garden establishment, teaching materials, and youth development activities.
These two organizations ensure that volunteers are contributing to programs with deep roots, local leadership, and long-term vision.
What International Volunteer Day Means for Us All
International Volunteer Day is not just about recognizing the people who give their time—it’s about recognizing the ripple effects of that service. Volunteers:
- Bridge gaps where resources fall short
- Bring energy, attention, and creativity to community challenges
- Help strengthen local solutions
- Learn, grow, and return home transformed
James’s experience in Malawi reminds us that volunteerism isn’t about perfection—it’s about willingness. It’s about showing up, even when situations are difficult, and choosing to make the best of them.
Interested in Becoming Part of This Global Movement?
The People to People Volunteer Program, supported by Planet Aid, offers individuals the chance to:
- Contribute to community-led projects in education, health, sustainable agriculture, and environmental protection
- Learn from respected organizations like Richmond Vale Academy and DAPP Malawi
- Gain real-world experience in international development
- Build lifelong friendships, skills, and perspective
- Create tangible change in communities that welcome and collaborate with volunteers
If you feel inspired by International Volunteer Day and want to take a step toward something truly meaningful, this program may be your next adventure.
Start Your Journey of Impact
This International Volunteer Day, honor the spirit of service by becoming part of it.
Learn more about the People to People Volunteer Program and discover how you can join an upcoming cohort. Your journey of impact—and self-discovery—begins here.