27 June 2000

Bonn, Germany: The United Nations Volunteers programme (UNV) today launched a completely new version of its interactive web site (www.iyv2001.org) to support preparations for the International Year of Volunteers, IYV 2001. The United Nations has appointed UNV as the focal point for IYV2001.

International Year of Volunteers web site Global demands for IYV news and resources have prompted the creation of this new web site that will serve as the online switchboard for IYV activities and networking around the world. The year targets enhanced promotion, recognition, facilitation and networking of volunteers and volunteerism globally. The new IYV web site aims to achieve these goals by offering an online information system linking all IYV participants and news in one location.

For example, volunteers can find out what is happening in their country by visiting the IYV Country Profiles containing news and contact information listing other individuals and organizations currently making plans for the upcoming year. Internet surfers can add their names to the expanding online list of IYV enthusiasts.

Visitors can also download logos, presentations and a wide range of background materials that can be adapted to meet local and national needs. The site contains an IYV Toolkit to help people get involved as individuals or as part of an IYV National Committee.

Volunteers are encouraged to submit stories of their activities, send in "volunteer-in-action" photographs and make links to IYV from their own web sites.