Passing the Flag 2025: celebrating volunteers who move forward the mission of The Human Safety Net

Every year, International Volunteer Day invites us to recognise the people who give their time to make the world a better place. At The Human Safety Net, Generali’s foundation whose mission is to unlock the potential of people living in vulnerable circumstances, this celebration comes to life through the annual tradition of the Passing the Flag ceremony.

Passing the Flag is an annual ceremony that marks the transition between outgoing and incoming Ambassadors – Generali colleagues who volunteer on top of their daily roles to lead and inspire others. This tradition symbolizes continuity and commitment within The Human Safety Net’s global movement. Each year, the event coincides with International Volunteer Day, reinforcing the importance of volunteerism in creating positive social impact.

The 2025 ceremony took place in Madrid and was live-streamed to the 25 countries where The Human Safety Net operates and our volunteers dedicate their time and energy to support families, empower refugees, and strengthen communities. We celebrated the achievements of the 2025 Ambassadors and proudly welcomed 600 new colleagues who will carry our mission forward in 2026.

Our volunteers contribute in many ways:

• Fundraising for local projects
• Supporting families and children
• Empowering refugees
• Direct volunteering through THSN Academy
• Helping NGO partners deliver their programmes

Their commitment transforms purpose into action and creates long-term impact.

The ceremony was hosted together with Fundación Balia, The Human Safety Net’s trusted partner in Spain since 2021. Together, the two organisations run projects focused on parenting and early learning (ages 3 to 6) and organize a summer camp for 100 children every year - funded by volunteer-led initiatives. These partnerships show how collaboration amplifies impact.

During the event, several colleagues shared their personal experiences as Ambassadors, offering a glimpse into how volunteering has shaped their lives and strengthened their sense of purpose. Their stories highlighted the transformative power of engagement - moving from occasional volunteering to becoming long-term advocates for social change.

Speakers described how volunteering allowed them to:

• Develop new skills and confidence by leading initiatives in their communities
• Build deeper connections with colleagues and local partners
• Experience the tangible impact of projects that support families and refugees
• Turn personal values into action, creating a lasting difference beyond the workplace

These testimonies reflect a common theme: volunteering is not only about giving time, but about gaining perspective, fostering empathy, and becoming a driver of positive change.

With more than 9,000 volunteers worldwide, The Human Safety Net continues to grow as a global movement of people helping people. The Passing the Flag ceremony is a reminder that volunteerism is not only an act of generosity but a catalyst for lasting social impact. As new Ambassadors step forward, they carry the commitment to unlock potential and strengthen communities everywhere.