Offaly volunteers asked to give 26 hours in 2026
Offaly Volunteer Centre is calling for people to join an international community of volunteers by giving a couple hours a month this year and commit to volunteering 26 hours during 2026.
The “26 for ‘26” campaign kicks off a year of activities to celebrate International Volunteer Year.
Volunteering plays a huge role in Irish life with both communities and individuals reaping the benefits. Volunteers in our communities across Offaly and beyond deliver critical services, foster social cohesion and ensure the most vulnerable aren’t left behind. For individuals, volunteering helps people improve their wellbeing, develop skills and meet new people.
Offaly Volunteer Centre Manager Deirdre Fox said: “Every contribution matters. By giving just a few hours every month, people can make a real difference in their community. Whether it’s part of a more regular volunteering role; something you do at home in your own time; or helping out at different events throughout the year – there is something for everyone.
"The important thing is to find something you’re passionate about and go from there. We are asking people to take the pledge on volunteer.ie, where they will also find tips on how to get started and be able to browse different volunteer roles.”
The designation of 2026 as the International Volunteer Year (IVY) by the Member States of the United Nations underscores the vital role volunteers play across the globe.
Volunteer Ireland has been named the national lead on IVY 2026 by the Government of Ireland and will deliver a programme of activities together with other partners in the sector.
The Executive Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers, Toily Kurbanov, said: “International years only make a real difference when they inspire action close to home. Ireland’s leadership in IVY 2026 shows how a global idea can become something real in people’s lives.
"When people volunteer, it’s more than giving time – it’s building hope and connection. Thank you to Volunteer Ireland for leading the way and encouraging everyone to get involved and make a difference.”
Deirdre Fox added: “Ireland has a strong culture of volunteering and IVY 2026 gives us a chance to celebrate that and strengthen it even further. Volunteering not only addresses critical needs in our society but also connects people and builds bridges at a time when we see increasing loneliness and a world that feels more polarised than ever.
"As we start a new year, we’re asking everyone to think about the kind of community they want to live in and how they can contribute to that vision.”
Take the pledge here: https://www.volunteer.ie/international-volunteer-year-2026/26for26/