All - Leep Calendar

CIVIL SERVICE MONTH IN THE PHILIPPINES: HONORING PUBLIC SERVANTS Every September, the Philippines celebrates Civil Service Month, a time to honor and recognize the dedication and contributions of public servants nationwide. Spearheaded by the Civil Service Commission (CSC), this month-long observance highlights the importance of civil service and aims to inspire excellence in government work. THE HISTORY OF CIVIL SERVICE IN THE PHILIPPINES The civil service in the Philippines dates back to the Spanish colonial period, but it was formally established during the American occupation. The Philippine Civil Service was officially created on September 19, 1900, with the enactment of Public Law No. 5, which aimed to provide an efficient and merit-based public service. Over the years, the system evolved, with significant reforms implemented to enhance transparency, accountability, and professionalism in the government workforce. TOP FIVE CAREERS IN CIVIL SERVICE Administrative Officer—These officers handle various administrative tasks, from managing office operations to ensuring compliance with policies and procedures. Teacher—Public school teachers play a crucial role in educating the nation's youth and are vital to developing the country's education system. Police Officer—Responsible for maintaining peace and order, police officers ensure the safety and security of communities across the Philippines. Health workers—Including doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals who provide essential services in public hospitals and health centers. Social Welfare Officer—These officers work to improve the welfare of vulnerable populations, implement social programs, and provide direct assistance to those in need. THE IMPORTANCE OF CIVIL SERVICE Civil service is fundamental to the functioning of government and the delivery of public services. Civil servants ensure the implementation of policies and programs, maintain public order, provide education and healthcare, and support social welfare initiatives. Their work directly impacts citizens' quality of life and the nation's development. BECOMING A CIVIL SERVANT IN THE PHILIPPINES To become a civil servant in the Philippines, one must pass the Civil Service Examination (CSE), which assesses eligibility for various government positions. The Civil Service Commission conducts the examination and includes different levels, such as the Professional and Subprofessional levels. Candidates must meet specific educational and experience requirements for the job they are applying for. Once they pass the CSE, candidates can apply for positions within government agencies. Civil Service Month is a tribute to the hardworking men and women who serve the public and contribute to the nation's progress. Through various activities and programs, the Civil Service Commission seeks to promote the values of integrity, excellence, and dedication among public servants, ensuring that the civil service remains a pillar of effective governance in the Philippines.

Africa

Sep

Classical Music Month: September

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Classical Music Month commemorates the beauty of classical music and its contributions to civilization. Proclaimed by then-President Clinton on August 22, 1994, this month honors the many composers, singers, and performers of classical music. With Congress and under the House Joint Resolution 239, September became Classical Music Month permanently.

Africa

Sep

Clean Air for Blue Skies, Intl. Day of: September 7

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The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies emphasizes the collective responsibility and action required to address air pollution. This pollution, a significant environmental risk to human health, causes about a third of deaths from stroke, chronic respiratory disease, and lung cancer, and a quarter from heart attacks. Additionally, short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) related to health effects and near-term global warming are a key concern. Air pollution causes an estimated 6.5 million premature deaths globally, with the majority occurring in developing countries where women, children, and the elderly are disproportionately affected due to their exposure to ambient and indoor air pollution. Air pollution also poses long-term impacts due to its transport over long distances; without aggressive intervention, premature deaths from ambient air pollution are projected to increase by over 50% by 2050. Air pollution also has a significant economic impact, affecting productivity, healthcare costs, and tourism. Investing in air pollution control, therefore, offers considerable economic benefits. Some air pollutants, like black carbon, methane, and ground-level ozone, impact food security and contribute to a significant number of air pollution-related deaths, so reducing them offers co-benefits for the climate. The United Nations General Assembly has designated 7 September as the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, in response to the growing international interest in clean air. The move aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals' emphasis on promoting sustainable development policies supporting healthy air quality and recognizes that improving air quality can also enhance climate change mitigation.

Africa

Sep

Clean up the World Day: September 20

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NATIONAL CLEAN-UP DAY: A CALL TO ACTION FOR A CLEANER WORLD International Clean Up the World Day was originally created in 1989 by yachtsman Ian Kiernan of Australia as a way to clean up Sydney Harbor, the event was initially called "Clean up Australia Day." It soon came to the attention of the United Nations. In 1993 the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and "Clean Up the World" was launched. A tremendous success, it is estimated that 35 million people in over 130 countries participate in International Clean up the World Weekend each year. In 2023, the United Nations General Assembly formerly established World Clean-up Day on September 20 each year. The primary goal of National Clean-up Day engages individuals, families, businesses, and community organizations in activities that clean up their local areas. The campaign aims to reduce litter, promote recycling, and foster a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability. It seeks to educate the public about the impacts of waste on the environment and inspire collective action to create cleaner, safer, and more beautiful communities. WHY ENVIRONMENTAL CLEAN-UP CAMPAIGNS ARE NEEDED Environmental cleanup campaigns are critical for several reasons: Reducing Pollution—Litter and waste pollute waterways, parks, and urban areas, harming wildlife and natural ecosystems. Promoting Public Health—Clean environments help reduce the risk of health issues related to pollution and waste, such as respiratory problems and waterborne diseases. Enhancing Community Well-being—Clean, well-maintained public spaces improve residents' quality of life by creating more attractive and enjoyable environments. Raising Awareness—Clean-up campaigns educate the public about the environmental impact of waste and the importance of proper waste management. Encouraging Sustainable Practices—These initiatives promote recycling, waste reduction, and other sustainable behaviors that benefit the environment in the long term. HOW TO VOLUNTEER Volunteers can participate in National Clean-up Day by registering at https://unhabitat.org/news/30-jan-2025/lead-by-example-become-the-host-of-world-cleanup-day-2025-or-2026. Additionally, look for local efforts at: Local Parks and Beaches—Many community groups organize cleanups in parks, beaches, and other public recreational areas. School Programs—Schools often participate by organizing cleanup events and educational activities for students. Corporate Volunteering—Businesses can encourage employees to participate in cleanup efforts as part of corporate social responsibility programs. Neighborhood Initiatives—Residents can come together to clean up streets, vacant lots, and other local areas. National Clean-up Day in September is a crucial reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and community involvement. By participating in cleanup activities and adopting sustainable practices worldwide, people can significantly impact the health and beauty of their surroundings. This initiative addresses immediate environmental concerns and fosters a culture of responsibility and care for the planet, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable future for all.

Africa

Sep

Clean-up Month, Intl.: September

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INTERNATIONAL CLEANUP MONTH: A CALL TO ACTION FOR A CLEANER WORLD Established in 2017, International Cleanup Month, championed by 501(c)3 nonprofit Clean Trails, Inc., brings together over 2 million volunteers to serve their communities worldwide. In 2024, it expanded from a single day focused on the United States to a month-long global observance that mobilizes volunteers to clean up public spaces, reduce waste, and raise environmental awareness, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment. The primary goal of International Cleanup Month is to engage individuals, families, businesses, and community organizations in activities that clean up their local areas. The campaign aims to reduce litter, promote recycling, and foster a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability. It seeks to educate the public about the impacts of waste on the environment and inspire collective action to create cleaner, safer, and more beautiful communities. WHY ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANUP CAMPAIGNS ARE NEEDED Environmental cleanup campaigns are critical for several reasons: Reducing Pollution—Litter and waste pollute waterways, parks, and urban areas, harming wildlife and natural ecosystems. Promoting Public Health—Clean environments help reduce the risk of health issues related to pollution and waste, such as respiratory problems and waterborne diseases. Enhancing Community Well-being—Clean, well-maintained public spaces improve residents' quality of life by creating more attractive and enjoyable environments. Raising Awareness—Cleanup campaigns educate the public about the environmental impact of waste and the importance of proper waste management. Encouraging Sustainable Practices—These initiatives promote recycling, waste reduction, and other sustainable behaviors that benefit the environment in the long term. HOW TO VOLUNTEERS Volunteers can participate in International Cleanup Month by registering at https://www.nationalcleanupday.org. Additionally, look for local efforts at: Local Parks and Beaches—Many community groups organize cleanups in parks, beaches, and other public recreational areas. School Programs—Schools often participate by organizing cleanup events and educational activities for students. Corporate Volunteering—Businesses can encourage employees to participate in cleanup efforts as part of corporate social responsibility programs. Neighborhood Initiatives—Residents can come together to clean up streets, vacant lots, and other local areas. International Cleanup Month in September are a crucial reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and community involvement. By participating in cleanup activities and adopting sustainable practices worldwide, people can significantly impact the health and beauty of their surroundings. This initiative addresses immediate environmental concerns and fosters a culture of responsibility and care for the planet, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable future for all.

Africa

Sep

Co-op Awareness Month: September 24 - October 31

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There are 29 platforms to generate income from marketing. Co-op dollars are one of them. Each year millions of co-op dollars, used for marketing and promotion, go unused and expire. These are specific funds set aside by the manufacturer or service provider to market their products and services through value-added resellers. Co-op Awareness Month reminds businesses to use these funds before they expire for good on December 31.

Africa

Sep

Coastal Cleanup Day, Intl.: September 19

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International Coastal Cleanup Day occurs on a Saturday and is a multi-national effort to clean up the beaches worldwide. Hundreds of thousands of people volunteer to spend the day picking up garbage and cleaning up the coastline to preserve natural habitats and support local ecosystems. For next year’s coastal cleanup, log on to: http://www.oceanconservancy.org/our-work/international-coastal-cleanup.

Africa

Sep

Coconut Day, World: September 2

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Created in 2009, World Coconut Day celebrates one of the world's most versatile fruits. Coconuts provide fibers for textiles (and mosquito repellant), water for drinking, and a dense fruit used in several dishes throughout tropical climates. Coco is "skull" in Portuguese and references the size of the fruit, equal to that of a man's skull. The primary cultivators of coconuts are Indonesia, The Philipines, India, Brazil, and Sri Lanka.

Africa

Sep

Coding Week, Ntl (US/UK): September 14-20

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Coding is essential to all computer-based applications. National Coding Week in the United States and the United Kingdom seeks to encourage young people to learn coding and other digital skills during the week while applauding the work of those with coding careers.

Africa

Sep

Coffee Day, Ntl.: September 29

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We're not sure who started National Coffee Day in the United States, but it seems to have been around for at least fifteen years. There is an International Coffee Day in October as well. Throughout the United States, coffee retailers and shops often offer specials or free coffee on this day to promote it. There is no specific sponsor, but if you're going out for a cup of Joe on September 29, look for specials at your favorite stores.

Africa

Sep

Coffee Morning, Macmillan World’s Biggest (UK): September 25

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Hosted by Macmillan Cancer Support, The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is a fundraiser that supports people with cancer and cancer research. Packets to take part are available on the event website.

Africa

Sep

Collect Rocks (Rockhound) Day: September 16

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Rock collecting has been a favorite pastime for hundreds of years, and the most fertile hunting ground is in the mountains. Amateur geologists and professional geologists can tell a lot about an area by the types of rocks and where they are located. Today is the day to let your inner rockhound out to play. Learn about the stones and minerals in your hometown and find out your soil's ingredients. Rockhound or Collect Rocks Day is an unofficial holiday with no sponsor.

Africa

Sep

College Colors Day, Ntl.: September 4

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A day to sport the colors of your favorite college or university, College Colors Day ushers in the new school year with campus pride. Annually on the Friday before Labor Day.

Africa

Sep

College Savings Month: September

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Saving for college is now crucial for parents hoping to help their children get ahead in life. In support, the official back-to-school month of September helps parents do just that. Sponsored by the College Savings Plans Network (CSPN), tools and various programs are available to parents and caregivers to help them plan and budget for their children’s higher education.

Africa

Sep

Comic Book Day, Ntl. (1837): September 25

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On September 25, 1837, Swiss schoolmaster Rodolphe Töpffer created the character Obadiah Oldbuck and chose to tell a story to his friends in a unique format. His primary motivation was his poor eyesight, and he had trouble reading the words, so he created the first storyboard with images and text beneath. His book was the first time anyone had put pictures and words together, which changed storytelling. Töpffer referred to his picture stories as "little follies." Upon publishing, the little follies became an instant hit. The idea quickly spread throughout Europe and the Americas. From the first little follies, the comic strip and later, the graphic novels and then finally video games, would be born. National Comic Book Day marks the anniversary of the creation of the first comic book. The best way to celebrate is to cuddle up with your favorite graphic novel and dig in.

Africa