On Monday, December 5th, the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme announced the winners of their annual “Online Volunteering” awards.

Every year, more than 10,000 online volunteers engage in the work of non-profit development organizations through UNV’s Online Volunteering service. The award honours the contributions of these volunteers who work entirely over the Internet to contribute to peace and development and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

A jury of experts in volunteerism and development cooperation chose the winners based on their ‘outstanding’ commitment and contributions, the results of their collaboration and their impact on the activities of the development organizations they supported.

Congratulating the winners, UNV Executive Coordinator Flavia Pansieri emphasized that “Volunteers are an incredibly valuable asset and ultimately, 2011 – the tenth anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers – has been about recognizing those who light up our world through their commitment to peace, human development and sustainability.”

Why not join and follow the example set by the 10 award winning groups of volunteers, and make a difference! Activate yourself, share your skills, knowledge and ideas as an online volunteer.