UNV Volunteers greet Thai public at Volunteer Street Fair
Outdoor gathering held December 10-11 draws over 40 volunteer organizations1 January 2011- Benjasiri Park in Bangkok came alive with the Volunteer Street Fair held on December 10-11
in celebration of the International Volunteer Day (IVD). Organized by the Volunteer Spirit Network, with support from the United Nations Volunteers, 40 volunteer organizations set up their booths to showcase the work they do in their communities and provide an opportunity for the public to sign up for rewarding volunteering activities.
UNV Deputy Executive Coordinator Naheed Haque gave the Opening Statement, citing His Majesty as the greatest role model for Thais, and saluting all the volunteers serving in Thailand and all over the world.Mr. Paiboon Wattanasiritham, former Minister of Human Security and Social Development also shared his thoughts on volunteerism. During his term, the National Center for Volunteering and Giving was established under the Ministry.
A joint sharing session was held by Maridel Alberto, UNV Programme Officer, and Nuntinee Malanon of the Volunteer Spirit Network on future directions for the partnership between UNV and the Thai volunteer organizations. The session emphasized the leadership role of the volunteer network in organizing the event, and reiterated UNV support for local initiatives.
“No matter how much we love Thailand, sooner or later, we too will have to go home. This is your country and your initiative. In that, we would be more than happy to support you,” Alberto said.
Haque greeted visitors and UNV volunteers at the Fair the entire first day. The Peace Division provided support, headed the Chief, Kevin Gilroy and Amina Said, Communications Chief, HQ. In an earlier session, Haque recognized the UNDP Thailand Country Office for their continued support of UNV in Thailand.
On the second day, more sharing from different organizations was also held, providing a forum for greater understanding and promotion of volunteerism. The Volunteer Street Fair was a unique and interesting way to bring home the message that volunteering is something that anyone can do, anytime, anywhere.
“Whatever the cause, whatever the concern, there are organizations here in Thailand that work every day to tackle these challenges and improve the lives of millions. You can be a part of that,” Haque said.
For further information, please contact:
Mark S. Cogan, Communications and Media Officer, UNDP Thailand, office: 02 288 1887, cell: 087 972 7435; mark.cogan@undp.org
