The Rafael del Pino Foundation, the U.S. Embassy in Spain and Meridian International Center partnered to host the Global Innovation in Volunteering Summit in Madrid on 28-30 March, whose opening ceremony was attended by HRH the Prince of Asturias, Don Felipe de Borbón.
More than 200 experienced specialists in different sectors and from different countries have gathered at this meeting to share best practices in relation to volunteering and the mobilisation of civil society. In its first edition, the Summit aimed to promote service to society as one of the possible solutions to address the social challenges present in Spain, the USA and other countries affected by the current economic situation. The summit has received the support of the Spanish and US administrations, third sector organisations and the business world. The first results of the Summit have materialised in different initiatives, including the announcement of Madrid's adhesion, made by Mayor Ana Botella, to the "Cities of Volunteering" project as the second international capital to join it.
During his speech at the Opening Ceremony of the Summit, HRH the Prince of Asturias explained: "I am sure that this Summit can be a key moment that will lead us to greater cooperation between companies, public administrations and the Third Sector with the aim of improving the well-being of each person and, therefore, of society as a whole".
The US Deputy Secretary of State for Education, Ann Stock, emphasised the importance of volunteerism and community service to American society, as well as the significance of education as a key to building the future.