WORLD VALUES DAY
OCTOBER 16
WORLD VALUES DAY: UNDERSTANDING THE PRINCIPLES THAT GUIDE OUR ACTIONS
Values shape how people treat each other and the environment. They influence how communities respond to challenges, how governments set priorities, and how organizations design programs meant to support long term wellbeing. World Values Day, celebrated each year on October 16, offers a moment to reflect on the principles that guide collective decision making. It encourages us to think about what matters most and how shared values can strengthen both society and the natural systems we depend on.
This observance reminds us that values are not abstract ideas. They show up in daily choices, public policies, and the way communities care for one another. When honesty, stewardship, fairness, and compassion guide our actions, they help build resilience and trust.
WHAT DO SHARED VALUES LOOK LIKE IN PRACTICE?
Shared values show up when communities work together to solve problems. They appear in the decision to protect clean water for future generations, or in the effort to ensure that everyone has access to parks, fresh food, and safe neighborhoods. They are expressed through volunteerism, public participation, and acts of care that create stronger relationships among people.
In daily life, shared values might look like a company prioritizing sustainable sourcing because it believes in responsibility. They might look like students organizing projects to support climate resilience. They might look like families joining local conservation events because they care about the future of their neighborhood. Collective values turn individual actions into broader cultural shifts.
GLOBAL AND LOCAL EFFORTS STRENGTHENING SHARED VALUES
he United Nations Sustainable Development Goals encourage countries to work toward fairness, climate resilience, and community health. The Charter for Compassion builds international networks that promote kindness and ethical decision making. The World Values Survey provides research that helps leaders understand how values shape societies and influence pathways toward environmental and social progress.
In Philadelphia, community land trusts protect affordable housing and green space through principles of stewardship and collective responsibility. In rural Brazil, community groups practice participatory forest management rooted in cultural traditions and respect for the land. In New Zealand, local councils incorporate Indigenous values into environmental planning, which strengthens community ties and ecological care.
3 ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE TO STRENGTHEN YOUR VALUES
Identify the values that guide your choices and share them with your community — Writing down the principles you care about and discussing them with friends, coworkers, or local groups helps clarify what matters most and encourages others to reflect on their own values.
Support organizations that work from strong ethical foundations —Support organizations that share your values by volunteering or donating
Join community projects that reflect your values — participating in hands on work helps turn values into visible action.
www.worldvaluesday.com
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?
Volunteer: Join us in our efforts to promote environmental awareness and sustainability in your community. Whether you have a few hours or a few days to spare, your help is invaluable!
Partner with Us: If you're part of a nonprofit, business, or government organization, consider partnering with the Environmental Alliance for collaborative projects or events. Together, we can make a bigger impact!
Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest news, events, and ways to participate in our initiatives.
Attend Events: Participate in our upcoming events and awareness days. Check our calendar for dates and details.
Spread the Word: Share our mission with your network. Follow us on social media and help us raise awareness about environmental issues.