It's volunteer week in the province.

Beyond the usual celebration of the over 330,000 volunteers in the province, this year marks a particularly special milestone, as it is also the 20th anniversary of the Year of the Volunteer; proclaimed in 2001.

The International Year of the Volunteer (IYV) was designated by the United Nations General Assembly; deciding that 2001 would be a year where across the globe they would work to increase the recognition, facilitation, and promotion of volunteerism across the globe. As well as a way to celebrate the achievements of millions of volunteers worldwide.

Ten years later, in 2011, The General Assembly would again gather on the tenth anniversary to reaffirm their commitment.

The 20th anniversary, at least in Canada, is said to include the launching of the first Canadian Code for Volunteer Involvement, as well as the signing of an accord between the federal government of Canada and the non-profit and charitable sectors of the country.

In announcing the provincial Volunteer Week in Saskatchewan, Russ Mirasty said in a press release:

"As we celebrate volunteer week in Canada April 18 to 24 and the 20th Anniversary of International Year of the volunteer, I wish to express my gratitude to the remarkable volunteers of Saskatchewan. Every day you make a positive difference in our communities and you enrich our province beyond measure. I am pleased to join with my Canadian Vice-Regal colleagues and Territorial Commissioners in issuing the following joint statement in celebration of Canada’s most precious resource.”

For more information on the Year of the Volunteer and Volunteer Week nationwide, visit volunteer.ca