Volunteering: An Advantage Now Recognised and Supported by Law
The President has signed Law of Ukraine No. 11159 on the Development of Volunteering in the Education System — and we, at the Ukrainian Red Cross, are proud to have contributed to its creation alongside the Committee on Education, Science and Innovation, the Ukrainian Volunteer Service, the Soloma Cats Charitable Foundation, and other partners.
This law is more than just a document. It’s a powerful message to young people: your contribution to the community matters.
What the Law Changes:
- Volunteering is now officially recognised within general, vocational, and higher education.
- Volunteering experience can be considered during university admissions and included in the motivation letter.
- Volunteering related to the field of study can count as practical experience.
- Every volunteer will receive an official document confirming their participation in volunteer activities.
- Educational institutions are now required to support and promote volunteer initiatives.
“Volunteering is about choosing to act, to help, to be there. Now, young people will know that this choice is recognised by the state. This is a crucial step towards making a culture of volunteering the norm from an early age,” said Maksym Dotsenko, Director General of the Ukrainian Red Cross.
We sincerely thank everyone who contributed to this decision. Volunteering isn’t just about helping others — it’s about the power of the community to drive change in the country.