The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the year 2001 as the International Year of Volunteers 2001 (IYV).

Countries from all over the world devoted the entire year to promoting and sustaining the spirit of volunteerism.

Canadians have always been known for their outstanding role in volunteerism both internationallyand at home. British Columbia marked IYV with a year-long tribute to volunteers and a celebration of the important contributions they made to our lives, our communities and to our social fabric.