Every year on the 5th of September, the world marks the International Day of Charity. The United Nations created this observance to mobilize individuals, nonprofits, and stakeholders to act with compassion and to reduce human suffering wherever it appears. The date honors the legacy of Mother Teresa, whose life’s work focused on serving people living in poverty.
Why this day matters
The International Day of Charity is about raising awareness, inspiring volunteerism, and strengthening social solidarity. It invites governments, civil society, and everyday people to give time, skills, or resources to causes that change lives. The UN General Assembly formalized the observance through Resolution 67/105 in December 2012, and the first commemoration followed in 2013.
How Ziva has participated
Ziva Children and Teens Foundation dedicates itself to supporting young lives through advocacy, education, family engagement, youth development, and community care.
Here is how Ziva brings charity to life throughout the year:
1) Advocacy and Oratory Programs
Ziva empowers children and teens to find and use their voices. We organise programs and offer platforms for young people to express their views, build confidence, and propose solutions to issues affecting them.
2) Parent Support Services
Ziva provides parenting workshops, counseling, and peer support groups aimed at equipping caregivers with effective strategies to foster stable, nurturing environments for their children.
3) Early Years Services
Through quality early childhood programs, health check-up camps, and developmental support services, Ziva helps children get the best possible start in life by promoting well-being and early detection of developmental needs.
4) Health and Wellness Programs
Ziva’s initiatives include fitness programs, mental health workshops on emotional resilience and stress management, and nutritional guidance; all critical for the holistic well-being of children and teens.
5) Youth Development Projects
Ziva engages young people in leadership training camps, community service projects, and vocational or skill development programs to prepare them for future success and civic responsibility.
6) Special Needs Support
Ziva offers advocacy, individualized education plans, resource support, and family counseling to children with special educational needs and their caregivers; creating enabling environments where every child can learn and thrive.
7) Adoption and Fostering
Ziva supports the adoption and fostering process by guiding prospective parents through legal and procedural steps, while providing training and support to create stable, loving homes for children.
8) Giving Back to the Community
Beyond structured programs, Ziva responds to community needs through seasonal and spontaneous outreach. The foundation organizes charity events during holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and Children’s Day, as well as at other unexpected times to support vulnerable children and families. These acts of giving help fill gaps, uplift spirits, and reinforce communal bonds.
What does this mean on the International Day of Charity
Charity with Ziva is not only about donations. It is also about listening, teaching, caring, and standing beside children and families. Whether through structured programming or spontaneous holiday giving, Ziva demonstrates that consistent gestures of kindness bring real, lasting hope and change to young lives.
You too can participate by helping
If you believe that every child deserves to thrive, you can support Ziva by volunteering, partnering, or raising awareness about its mission. On 5 September, choose one simple act of kindness, no matter how small, that supports a child or teen in your life or community.