In Amsterdam, we’re approaching the shortest days and longest nights of what has been a heavy year for so many. This is a thank you note to all of you who have reached out, finding ways to connect and help, whether large or small, one time or systematically. The wonderful volunteers at Neighborhood Feminists (and elsewhere) bring the light. We see you, and we appreciate you every day–but especially today–when all of the Netherlands celebrates Vrijwilligersdag (Volunteers Day).

On International Volunteers Day, which took place last Saturday, people who make a real difference are recognized around the globe, and, as the team at United Nations Volunteers tweeted: 

“In a world with increasing isolation & tension, volunteers embody values of respect for others and a willingness to work together to find solutions to humanity’s problems.”  

Thank you for being the change!