20 September 2001

Bonn, Germany: The United Nations Volunteers programme (UNV) today launched a new organizational web site, incorporating fresh graphics and a strong focus on its promotion of volunteer action around the world. www.unvolunteers.org

While maintaining its focus on news and information about the Bonn-based programme -- the volunteer arm of the United Nations -- the new web site highlights UNV's role as focal point for the International Year of Volunteers, IVY 2001 (www.iyv2001.org).

Additionally, it guides would-be volunteers on how to find information about opportunities in their home countries or abroad, either with UN Volunteers or with other organizations. It also features online volunteering, a facility managed by UNV on the Netaid.org web site: (www.netaid.org/OV).

With stories of personal experiences and volunteer networking, carried out during IYV 2001, the web site encourages interaction between volunteers from all continents and from all walks of life.