As the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world this year, there has been a shining light in the form of volunteers. From medical, community and societal responses, we have seen volunteers come forward for all kinds of work. Hence, this year more than ever, The United Nations celebrate each and every one of these individuals on International Volunteer Day. The International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development, more commonly referred to as International Volunteer Day, is an international observance mandated by the UN General Assembly in 1985. In honor of this special day, we are spotlighting just a small handful of stand-out Belizean volunteer efforts. To these, and all the other countless Belizeans, we thank you for your efforts.
A Celebration of Belizeans for International Volunteer Day
International Volunteer Day (IVD) mandated by the UN General Assembly, is held each year on 5 December. It is viewed as a unique chance for volunteers and organizations to celebrate their efforts. In particular, to share their values, and to promote their amazing work. This year’s theme is Together We Can.
Ambergris Caye COVID Relief Cookbook
This cookbook was created by Ambergris Caye resident, Kimberly Wylie, to support those impacted most by COVID-19. The island, which relies heavily on tourism, has suffered tremendously due to the pandemic.
“People who had very little to begin with, now have nothing,” Wylie explains.
One hundred percent of the profits earned from book sales go to the San Pedro Hot Lunch Program. This program feeds almost 400 island residents 3 times a week. The cook book includes 90+ recipes from local restaurateurs, chefs, Ambergris Caye residents, and visitors. Also, it includes 45 Belizean-specific dishes, and 52 more non-Belizean dishes. Amazing photos of the island are also featured alongside the recipes. The volunteers that help the Hot Meals program are one to spotlight for this year’s International Volunteer Day.
The cookbook is available to purchase in paperback, hardback or mobile here.
Style & Support with #The WorldCan T-shirt
Matachica Resort have combined style with their support efforts. After all, all proceeds from The World Can t-shirts go towards their staff impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Each t-shirt design features a custom illustration from renowned illustrator Cécile Gariépy . He designed the beautiful murals in Matachica’s private casitas and signage throughout the property. Additionally, each t-shirt is named to honor a staff member.
Purchase The Sam, The Abi, or The Charlie here.
Oceana Celebrates Champions of the Caribbean Sea
The tourism industry came to a halt amidst COVID-19. However, it gave us more time to appreciate our natural resources. And in their annual Ocean Hero award ceremony, Oceana Belize shone a light on our Caribbean Sea. Nonetheless, a source of industry, joy and life. The first virtual awards ceremony recognized two outstanding Belizeans. Efforts included seaweed farming to youth mentoring and beach clean-ups. After all, our ocean is a much better place thanks to these Ocean heroes in Belize.
Check out all of Oceana Belize’s campaigns, including those amidst COVID-19.
Hamanasi Combines Hospitality & Community Help
Despite this eco- resort temporarily closing its doors in March, it continued to champion sustainable initiatives before reopening in October. Exceptionally, the property have an in-house Green Team. These heroes are in charge of conjuring initiatives with positive societal and environmental impacts. In particular, initiatives focus around raising environmental awareness and supporting the local community.
The resort also encourage their guests to get involved with their efforts. These include supporting ‘Pack for a Purpose’, to educational sessions on the surrounding environment. Certainly, the resort has really shown how to travel sustainably and responsibly amidst COVID-19.
Do you want to shout-out a volunteer who has made a difference this year? Share your volunteer stories with us. After all, Together We Can! Header photo of a beach clean-up on Half Moon Caye by Oceana Belize.
