February may be the shortest month of the year, but it brings a powerful focus on youth voice, volunteering, participation, and positive change. Across Dublin and around the world, this month highlights how young people supported by youth workers and volunteers are shaping stronger, safer and more inclusive communities every day.
2026 is especially meaningful, as it has been designated by the United Nations as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development. This global recognition celebrates the impact of volunteering in building a fairer and more sustainable future something we see first-hand across youth services throughout the city.
At City of Dublin Youth Services, we know that when young people are supported to participate, lead, question and contribute, great things happen.
Celebrating Youth Volunteering & Participation
February shines a spotlight on student and youth volunteering. Student Volunteering Week (9–15 February) recognise the contribution young volunteers make in their schools, clubs, youth projects and communities.
Youth volunteering is not just about giving time it builds confidence, leadership, empathy and real-world skills. Whether it’s helping run activities, supporting peers, contributing to local projects, or speaking up in youth forums, young volunteers are active partners in positive change.
Volunteer-led learning and support also continue this month through a range of national development and networking opportunities, including:
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Volunteer networking and connection sessions
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Training on measuring the impact of volunteering
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Volunteer development and quality support initiatives
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Youth participation and policy dialogue events
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Youth worker training focused on social and emotional development
Together, these initiatives strengthen the support systems around young people and ensure volunteering remains meaningful, inclusive and well supported.
Digital Safety, Science & Global Awareness
February also brings several international awareness days that connect strongly with youth work practice and young people’s lived experiences:
World Cancer Day (04 February) raises awareness about cancer prevention, treatment and support, and highlights the experiences of individuals and families affected by cancer. It is also a reminder of the importance of compassion, community support and accessible wellbeing resources for young people and families.
Safer Internet Day (10 February) reminds us of the importance of supporting young people to navigate online spaces safely, confidently and responsibly. Youth services play a key role in building digital resilience and critical thinking skills not just protection, but empowerment.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science (11 February) celebrates girls and young women in STEM and encourages equal access to opportunity. Youth spaces are often where early curiosity is supported and confidence is built.
Red Hand Day (12 February) raises awareness about children affected by armed conflict and highlights the global importance of protecting childhood and youth rights.
World Thinking Day (22 February) celebrates global youth friendship, learning and solidarity values that sit at the heart of youth work.
Rare Disease Day (28 February) encourages understanding, compassion and inclusion for young people and families affected by rare conditions reminding us how important accessible, welcoming youth spaces are for all.
Faith, Culture & Inclusion this February
Youth work happens in diverse communities, and February includes important cultural and faith observances that matter to many of the young people and families we work with.
Ramadan (17 February) begins this month for many Muslim communities a time of fasting, acts of generosity, prayer and spiritual focus. Youth services can support inclusion by being mindful of energy levels, scheduling, and the importance of community connection during this period.
Lunar New Year (17 February) is celebrated by many East and Southeast Asian communities, including Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities, and marks a time of renewal, family gathering and hope for the year ahead.
Ash Wednesday (18 February) marks the beginning of Lent for many Christians, a reflective period observed through prayer, fasting and acts of kindness. Youth services can support inclusion by being respectful of religious observance and personal commitments during this time.
Recognising and respecting these moments helps create youth spaces where everyone feels seen, valued and welcome.
Youth, Equity & Social Justice
World Day of Social Justice (20 February) connects strongly with the values of youth work fairness, participation, dignity and opportunity for all. It reminds us that supporting young people is not only about services and programmes, but also about voice, access, and removing barriers to participation.
Youth work continues to play a vital role in promoting equality, encouraging dialogue, and supporting young people to understand their rights and their power to shape society.
Young Voices Matter
Youth participation continues to grow as a theme across Ireland and Europe, with youth dialogue and advocacy programmes taking place this month that support young people and youth workers to engage with decision-making and policy conversations.
When young people are given real opportunities to express their views and shape outcomes, services improve and communities become stronger. Youth voice is not a “nice to have” it is essential.
Looking Ahead
February is a month to celebrate participation, encourage volunteering, promote safety, recognise diversity, and amplify young voices. Across Dublin, youth workers, volunteers and young people continue to build supportive environments where growth, belonging and opportunity are possible.
If you are a young person interested in getting involved, or an organisation looking to strengthen youth participation and volunteering, this is the perfect month to take that first step.
Small actions add up. Youth voices matter. Volunteer energy changes communities.
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