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United Way Blog

From Baby Bottoms to International Efforts: Volunteers are Key to Better Health and Wellbeing

The National Diaper Bank Network estimates that, at a minimum, diaper banks are distributing 50% more diapers to American families in need than before COVID-19. Even so, one in three families struggle to afford a sufficient supply of diapers to keep children clean, dry, and healthy.

Enter Tiffany Go, a volunteer at United Way of King County in Seattle. A young professional active in their Emerging Leaders 365 program, Tiffany recently organized a diaper drive to support United Way's Parent Child+ efforts.

In recognition of her commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of struggling families, Tiffany will be one of five volunteers speaking (virtually) at a United Nations event celebrating International Volunteer Day. Mandated by the UN General Assembly in 1985 and celebrated annually on December 5, International Volunteer Day aims to promote volunteering, encourage governments to support volunteer efforts, and recognize volunteer contributions to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at local, national, and international levels.

The theme this year is "Together We Can Through Volunteering" with a focus on SDG 3 and ensuring healthy lives and wellbeing for all. As the COVID-19 pandemic has sickened and killed millions and caused much suffering, especially among those living in poverty, volunteers like Tiffany have been at the forefront of medical, community, and societal responses. 

Initially hoping to collect 1,000 donated diapers, Tiffany secured nearly 12,500, which will be distributed by United Way of King County’s partners to families in need. Tiffany’s leadership and commitment to collecting diapers for families clearly demonstrated that yes, “Together We Can Through Volunteering.” Congratulations to her and to the millions of volunteers around the world who are making a very real difference for babies, their families, and all of us.

#TogetherWeCan  #IVD2020