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.
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.
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.
At the heart of the People to People Volunteer Program are two respected organizations committed to long-term impact.
Through hands-on learning and community engagement, volunteers leave RVA inspired, skilled, and empowered to help build a more sustainable world.
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.
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:
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.
The People to People Volunteer Program, supported by Planet Aid, offers individuals the chance to:
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.
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.