UN Year of Volunteering Awards 2026
Growing volunteering and strengthening communities across Northern Ireland.
2026 has been designated as the UN Year of Volunteering for Sustainable Development.
To mark this, the Minister for Communities, Gordon Lyons MLA, will host a special awards ceremony recognising the individuals and organisations making a real difference across Northern Ireland.
Celebrate those who make a difference
Volunteers are at the heart of our communities. These awards are your opportunity to recognise the people and groups whose time, energy and commitment create lasting impact.
Submit your nomination today using the links below.
Key Information
Nominations open: 1 July 2026
Nominations close: 30 September 2026
Awards ceremony: 3 December 2026
Location: Stormont (Evening)
Nominators and nominees will be invited to join us at the Awards Ceremony at Stormont on 3rd December 2026 to celebrate the incredible contributions of volunteers and organisations across Northern Ireland.
Who can be nominated?
- Individuals living in Northern Ireland
- Organisations delivering services within Northern Ireland
BUT
- You can’t nominate yourself
- You can’t be nominated for a role which is similar to your paid role
You MUST have permission from your nominee before you complete the form.
What is Volunteering?
Volunteering is the commitment of time and energy, freely given, for the benefit of communities, individuals, or the environment – without financial reward.
Over 26% of people in Northern Ireland give their time and skills to causes that matter, making a meaningful difference every day.
The Awards
There are seven Awards that you can submit nominations for. Details of who can be nominated for each award are in the links below.
If you have any questions or need any assistance, please contact comms@volunteernow.co.uk
