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As International Volunteer Day approaches, stories like those of Alaa Al-Haddad and Lea Strpkova, employees of Habitat for Humanity International Europe and Middle East, shine a light on the transformative power of giving back. Two months ago, Alaa, donor engagement coordinator, and Lea, resource development assistant, joined 150 other volunteers for the Hope Build event in Berceni, Romania. Their journey was one of sweat, teamwork, and lasting impact.

From September 28 to October 3, the employees of the VKR Group, a Danish holding and investment company in the building industry, came together for a truly inspiring initiative—the Donate Your Steps walking challenge, organized by the Employee Foundation of the VKR Group to support Habitat for Humanity’s mission to provide safe and decent homes for families in need.

Cairo, Egypt — On the sidelines of the 12th World Urban Forum (WUF12), themed “It All Starts at Home: Local Actions for Sustainable Cities and Communities,” Habitat for Humanity Africa Area Office and United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote affordable housing, sustainable urban development, and climate resilience across Africa.

Jordan, home to one of the highest per capita shares of refugees in the world, faces significant challenges. Out of its 11 million population, one-third are refugees from neighboring countries like Palestine, Syria, and Iraq. Most have arrived in the last two decades due to regional conflicts, exerting immense pressure on the country’s public services, energy resources, and notably its water supply, as Jordan is one of the most water-scarce nations globally.

For low-income families, securing decent housing is a major challenge due to economic conditions. With an unemployment rate of approximately 26%, over 2 million Jordanians lack access to affordable housing, and 1.36 million live in poor conditions. According to the UNHCR, 80% of refugees in Jordan live below the poverty line, including 60% who live in extreme poverty.

Marka Camp, also known as Schneller Camp, is located just 10 kilometers northeast of Amman, Jordan. Established in 1968 as a temporary refuge for displaced Palestinian families, the camp was initially intended to offer immediate relief and support for those fleeing conflict. The Jordanian government, in collaboration with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), sought to provide these refugees with safety and essential services during a period of great uncertainty. However, what was meant to be a short-term solution has, over time, turned into a more permanent reality.

Located in the tranquil natural environment of Kiskunság, Hungary, sits Strazsa Tanya, a guesthouse and ranch. The property is named after the nearby Strázsa “mountain,” making it the perfect place to escape. After the Ukrainian invasion broke out, the facility transformed itself into a sanctuary for Ukrainian refugees, particularly those with disabilities and other cumulative disadvantages. Since then, the ranch has provided not only temporary shelter but also a pathway to rebuilding lives.

Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, with almost 200 million people aged between 15 and 24. Alarmingly, approximately 72 million of these young people—primarily young women—are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), according to the International Labour Organisation.