Find Joy in Giving Back: Celebrating Volunteers on International Volunteer Day
"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart." – Elizabeth Andrew
Let’s be real—selflessness can feel like a rare find these days. In a world where everyone’s calendar is bursting at the seams, taking time to give back is an act of quiet rebellion against busyness. Today, on International Volunteer Day, we tip our hats to those rebels—the volunteers who show us that compassion, connection, and community still thrive.
Volunteering isn’t just about lending a helping hand (though that’s a big part of it). It’s also about creating ripples of change that stretch far beyond the act itself. Whether you’re organizing events, mentoring peers, or just showing up for someone who needs support, you’re shaping a better world—and (spoiler alert) you’re also transforming yourself along the way.
At IIBA, volunteers have been the heart of everything we do since day one. They bring energy, ideas, and a ton of dedication to growing the business analysis profession and building strong, supportive communities. This International Volunteer Day, we’re celebrating you.
How Volunteering Shapes a Community—and You
Volunteering with IIBA is like joining a secret club—but instead of funny hats and weird nicknames, you get lifelong skills, friendships, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a difference. (Okay, maybe some chapters have hats too. We’re not judging.)
Whether you’re:
- Leading a chapter
- Mentoring an aspiring business analysis professional
- Helping with webinars, or
- Writing articles that inspire the global community
...you’re part of a stellar team that spans continents and cultures.
And let’s not forget the perks. Beyond the good vibes, you gain leadership experience, expand your professional network, and even score some Continuing Development Units (CDUs) to keep your certifications sharp.
What’s not to love?
Recognizing the Movers, Shakers, and Change-Makers
Every year, IIBA’s Volunteer Awards Program shines a spotlight on those who’ve gone above and beyond. These folks aren’t just volunteers—they’re community builders, leaders, and innovators. They remind us that every effort, big or small, contributes to something much greater.
From the Volunteer of the Year awards to the achievements of local chapters, we take a moment to say: We see you… And we thank you.
The World Needs More People Like You
Volunteering is a way to tip the scales back toward the good in a world that sometimes feels desperately short on kindness. At IIBA, there’s always room for more hands, hearts, and ideas. The opportunities are as varied as those who step up to fill them—whether you’re a seasoned professional or just dipping your toes in the analysis waters.
Want to get involved? It’s super easy:
- Express your interest through our volunteer page
- We’ll match your skills and passions with the right opportunities
- You’ll start making an impact while growing your skills and connections
A Big Thank You to Our Volunteers
To all the amazing volunteers who’ve supported IIBA over the past year: you’re the reason this community thrives. Your hard work and passion don’t just inspire others—they make the world of business analysis stronger, smarter, and more connected.
Happy International Volunteer Day! Now go celebrate. You’ve earned it!
Looking to volunteer with IIBA? There’s always an opportunity to give back to the business analysis community, whether by contributing content to our Analyst Catalyst blog or participating in chapter events and forums. Explore our many volunteer initiatives and sign up today.
About the Author

Michelle is a dedicated and passionate individual with experience in various remote support and coordination roles. Michelle has a strong customer focus, high energy, and great organizational skills that are key to her work coordinating IIBA's volunteer program. She actively engages with both internal stakeholders to determine the volunteer needs and communicate and collaborate with the business analysis community to recruit, nurture, and build relationships with our volunteers. When she is not working you can find her travelling the globe from her home in Toronto.