September 5th is observed as the International Day of Charity, dedicated to commemorating the passing of Mother Teresa. This day serves as a global platform to raise awareness and engage in various charity-related activities.

The United Nations General Assembly officially designated September 5 as the International Day of Charity through a resolution passed on December 17, 2012. The choice of this date pays tribute to Mother Teresa, renowned for her charitable work, compassion, and contributions to aiding the destitute. In 1979, she was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize for her endeavors to alleviate poverty and suffering.

Furthermore, the day recognizes the vital role played by the private sector, civil society organizations, and philanthropic entities in advancing the goals of the new Agenda.

History and Background

• Establishment: The International Day of Charity was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 through Resolution A/RES/67/105.
• Date Selection: The date of September 5 was chosen to commemorate the anniversary of the passing of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her work in combating poverty and distress.

Objectives and Significance

• Purpose: The day aims to raise awareness and provide a common platform for charity-related activities all over the world. It is meant to promote and recognize the role of charity in alleviating human suffering, and in promoting the values of solidarity and mutual assistance.
• Goals: Encouraging philanthropic activities, fostering a culture of giving, and raising awareness about the importance of charitable organizations and individuals in addressing issues of poverty, humanitarian crises, and other social challenges.

Mother Teresa's Legacy

• Biography: Mother Teresa was born on August 26, 1910, in Skopje, then part of the Ottoman Empire. She founded the Missionaries of Charity, a Roman Catholic religious congregation, which operates in over 130 countries, providing care for those who are poor, sick, orphaned, and dying.
• Recognition: Her work earned her numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize. She passed away on September 5, 1997, and was canonized as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church in 2016.

Celebrations and Activities

• Events: Various events are organized worldwide to mark the International Day of Charity, including fundraising events, charity runs, and campaigns to encourage volunteerism.
• Awareness Campaigns: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community groups, and individuals often use the day to highlight their work and to appeal for support and donations.
• Corporate Involvement: Businesses may engage in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, encouraging employees to participate in charitable efforts or matching employee donations to various causes.
• Educational Initiatives: Schools and universities might organize talks, workshops, and activities to educate students about the importance of charity and how they can contribute to charitable causes.

Impact and Global Participation

• Global Reach: The International Day of Charity has a wide-reaching impact, mobilizing people across different cultures and societies to support charitable activities and to address global issues such as poverty, hunger, and inequality.
• UN Involvement: The United Nations and its agencies often organize special events and initiatives to mark the day, promoting international cooperation and partnerships for charitable efforts.

Quotes and Messages

• Inspirational Quotes: The day is often marked by sharing inspirational quotes and messages related to charity and giving. For example, Mother Teresa’s famous words, "It's not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving," are frequently highlighted.

How to Participate

• Individual Actions: People can participate by donating to their favorite charities, volunteering their time, or organizing community service projects.
• Social Media: Sharing information and raising awareness about charitable causes on social media platforms using hashtags like #CharityDay, #InternationalDayOfCharity, and #GiveBack.

The International Day of Charity serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and the positive impact that collective efforts in charity can have on creating a more just and equitable world.