International Volunteer Year 2026 Launch – Bengaluru

Youth for Seva (YFS) successfully launched the International Volunteer Year (IVY) 2026 a United Nation’s initiative, with this YFS also marked the celebration of National Youth Day in Bengaluru. The event was graced by our Brand Ambassador Shri Rishab Shetty and keynote speaker Dr. R. Balasubramanian, along with dignitaries from government institutions, NGOs, academia, the corporate sector, influencers, and civil society. Over 450 recognized YFS volunteers attended, reflecting strong public participation in the volunteering movement.
IVY 2026 aims to strengthen the volunteering ecosystem and enable measurable on-ground impact throughout 2026. 

The initiative has been positively received by multiple stakeholders, aligning with YFS’s mission of enabling citizens to meaningfully contribute to nation-building.

During the launch, volunteers wrote heartfelt letters to Indian soldiers under the theme “A Letter, A Salute”, conveying appreciation for their service and sacrifice. This gesture highlighted the emotional and civic dimension of volunteering.

With IVY 2026, YFS aspires to achieve 1 million volunteering hours through structured, sustainable, and impactful activities across education, livelihoods, environment, and community development. The YFS community collectively took the pledge “Together we build, together we serve”, signalling a shared commitment towards this national mission.
The launch sets a strong foundation for broader regional activations, volunteer mobilization, and partner participation in the months ahead. YFS thanks all stakeholders for their continuous support and looks forward to deeper collaboration.