The Ghana Philanthropy Conference 2024 (GPC 24) convened at Alisa Swiss Hotel from October 30-31, bringing together stakeholders from civil society, government, private sector, and volunteer organisations to explore the theme “Volunteerism as Civic Action.”

Organised by STAR-Ghana Foundation in partnership with institutions such as the University of Ghana’s Centre for Social Policy Studies and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the event focused on enhancing the role of volunteerism in Ghana’s inclusive development.

Participants acknowledged volunteerism as a cornerstone for community development, social justice, and nation-building, serving as a platform for civic awareness, grassroots mobilization, and governance engagement.

To promote and sustain volunteerism, the conference resolved to:

• Raise Awareness: Advocate volunteerism as a civic duty through education, communication, and stakeholder engagement.

• Leverage Technology: Utilise platforms like LinkedIn and GoGiveTime.org to connect volunteers with impactful opportunities.

• Engage Youth: Champion a National Policy on Volunteerism and provide structured programs, training, and mentorships to empower young people.

• Enhance Knowledge Sharing: Foster partnerships between academia, NGOs, and the private sector to advance research and learning in volunteerism.

Call to Action

The conference issued a strong appeal to the Government of Ghana to:

• Develop a national strategy and policy for volunteerism.

• Incorporate volunteerism into the national education system.

• Institutionalise a National Volunteerism Week.

• Provide tax incentives and rewards to encourage corporate and individual volunteering.

Participants committed to fostering trust, accountability, and collaboration in philanthropic efforts to ensure volunteerism drives social justice and inclusivity.