Thank you all for joining us at the celebration of the United Nations International Volunteer Day, held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the Sara J Gonzalez Memorial Park, at the 6th Annual Winter Resource Fair!
Created, hosted, and inspired by Mayor Andre Dickens and the Mayor’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs-Welcoming Atlanta, the event was an incredible success.
With more than 275 families in attendance, this year’s celebration became one of the most meaningful and impactful community events to date. Because of the inspiration, leadership, and support of Atlanta, GA, Mayor Andre Dickens, the joy was unmistakable—families connecting, children laughing, and volunteers working in harmony to uplift our neighbors in the true spirit of the United Nations’ International Volunteer Day.
The United Nations Association of the United States of America, Atlanta Chapter (UNA-ATL) was honored to join the event as a community partner, standing alongside the Atlanta Mayor’s Office and more than 38 dedicated partner organizations, including 14 tabling partners. As President of UNA-ATL, I was proud to join the Mayor’s Office at this event because we believe deeply in the power of community-centered collaborations that advance dignity, opportunity, and well-being for all Atlantans. The Winter Resource Fair is a shining example of how local action can drive global progress.
This year’s Fair strongly reflected several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a shared blueprint for peace, prosperity, and a sustainable future. Specifically, the event embodied:
- SDG 1: No Poverty – by providing 2,700 pounds of groceries and essential resources to families.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – through free health screenings and wellness support.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – by strengthening inclusive, resilient community networks.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – through trusted community engagement and safe access to vital services.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – demonstrated by the remarkable collaboration of partners, volunteers, and city leadership.
The SDGs serve as a global roadmap for building stronger, healthier, and more equitable communities—values that align seamlessly with the City of Atlanta's growth, vibrancy, and diverse needs. UNA-ATL is committed to ensuring that our city’s progress reflects global best practices, local compassion, and shared responsibility.
We are also grateful for the incredible volunteer spirit that powered the day. From setting up tents to organizing toys, assisting families, unloading food deliveries, and keeping the event running smoothly, your dedication made possible the distribution of 800 toys, the engagement of 35 volunteers, the joy of 318 soccer balls kicked, and even a festive hour of mariachi music to close out the celebration.
Congratulations to the Atlanta Mayor’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs-Welcoming Atlanta, Executive Director, Paulina Guzman, Community Navigator Coordinator, Pilar Baca, and the entire team at the Mayor’s office for hosting an outstanding and deeply impactful event.
Your leadership continues to strengthen Atlanta’s commitment to inclusivity, service, and community resilience. UNA-ATL is proud to stand with you on this shared mission and looks forward to continuing our partnership in the months ahead.