Social Enterprise Day

Social Enterprise Day is around the world on the third Thursday of November. It is a day to celebrate the incredible work done by social enterprises across the world. Social enterprises are engaged in a variety of activities, such as public catering, cultural organizations, educational institutions, providing assistance to the disadvantaged, and offering public services. The day is an opportunity to recognize and support the important role that social enterprises play in providing material and spiritual needs to people in need.

History

The celebration of Social Enterprise Day has become popular over the past few decades, though the concept of social enterprises has been around for much longer. The spirit of the day has remained the same, though the forms and accompanying moments have changed. One of the earliest social workers was Florence Nightingale, a British nurse, public figure, and sister of mercy. She developed nursing practices that are still used today and opened a nursing school. Though many people believe that social enterprises are non-profit, many of them strive for self-sufficiency.

Interesting facts

Here are some interesting facts about Florence Nightingale:

• She belonged to the upper class and had an excellent education, being fluent in several languages.
• Since childhood, she had a passion for science, particularly mathematics, though she studied charity and statistics more. Her parents did not approve of her chosen direction, believing she could easily achieve more.
• She took part in the Crimean War, spending time in hospitals and caring for the wounded. She was nicknamed “the lady with the lamp” due to her night-time rounds to check on the condition of the sick.
• In 1859, she issued recommendations for the care of patients, significantly improving the standard of care.

How to take part

If you would like to celebrate Social Enterprise Day, there are a few things you can do. You can learn more about the profession by meeting like-minded people, attending lectures and events, or even becoming a volunteer in a social enterprise. You can also support social enterprises by spreading the word about their work and donating to the cause if you are able.

When is Social Enterprise Day in 2024?

Social Enterprise Day is observed on the third Thursday in November each year.

Observations