Hi guys, it´s Amy again! And this time, I am presenting a topic that has turned my life upside down over the last few months. Any guesses? – Let me help you out…Today´s blog article will be all about volunteering!
Every year on the 5th of December, the “International Volunteer Day” draws attention to the important role that volunteers play in communities all around the world. Established by the United Nations in 1985, the day aims to recognize volunteer contributions and encourage more people to engage in volunteering activities.
It serves as an opportunity for institutions, NGOs, and local groups to highlight the impact their volunteer involvement has made and present the results of their projects.
These projects can be carried out in a wide range of volunteering activities, including: Environmental work, social services, youth and sports programs, education and tutoring, cultural action and more…
Volunteering services aim to create a “win-win” situation between the volunteer and the community they are active in. With non-formal commitments they support local groups while learning, growing and experiencing new things for themselves.
This non formal way of working draws a bridge between giving necessary and practical support but also creating personal bonds within small communities and individual people. It highlights that collective efforts and supports in communities are never a waste of time. No matter how big or small the impact.
Even though the Collins Dictionary defines a volunteer as “someone who does work without being paid for it, because they want to do it” – I believe that the term includes so much more than that.
As a volunteer myself I am happy to share that volunteering is a unique experience that enriches your life in so many ways. You get a chance to learn new skills, engage within different activities and look back on various projects you participated in.
But the gift of volunteering lies not only in the things you actively achieve.
It lies in the connections and friendships you form along the way.
It lies in the discoveries you make within a new country and culture.
It lies within the trams, busses and streets that seem so overwhelming at first but over time turn into your new home.
Volunteering isn´t only a job- it´s a connecting point of different countries, cultures, mindsets and opinions.
Amy Watson
