International Volunteer Day is observed every year on 5th December to recognize the contribution of volunteers, to support volunteer efforts and to promote volunteerism. The theme for this year’s International Volunteer Day is Together We Can Through Volunteering. Amid the pandemic the volunteers have been at the forefront acting as responders for medical, societal and community needs. From providing assistance to the elderly to helping the most vulnerable volunteers have done it all.
We at Smile Foundation would like to highlight some of the experiences of our volunteers who have worked with Smile to reach the most underserved and spread happiness.
Anitha
“I have always been taught that ‘Service comes before Self’, which implies that if you want to do good, start with doing it for others. Supporting other people in their time of need became the motivation towards doing more and more community work as I grew up. However, this pandemic has been the test of all times. Some people said that it feels like a punishment to have been born as a human because there was so much suffering. But as I had been taught since childhood, in any calamity, it is always the community and the society that comes to the rescue of people struggling the most. I decided to bring back the faith which people were rapidly losing in the changing times- the faith in humanity. Through healthcare and awareness sessions provided by Smile on Wheels doorstep healthcare team, I spread the message of togetherness among all the villagers who visit this mobile medical van. From door to door, I try to connect with people who might be in dire need of medical care but can’t access it due to the pandemic. In the past few months, the health conditions of all community members has improved vastly, thanks to Smile on Wheels team. When trust, faith and compassion was restored in this village, I finally realised that ‘Service before Self’ is nothing but a ray of hope to bring the biggest change in this world- the change of heart…to see the best among ourselves!”
Jahanvi
Every time I am with these new found friends, I come back with a feeling of hope and inspiration. Their bright eyes, smiles and laughter, fill up my heart with an energy unlike any other I have ever experienced. A couple of weeks back, I started contributing my time to teach these children studying in Mission Education Centre (Dhaula Kuan). They reside in a slum nearby. I have come to realise that the lack of resources they live with, has not diminished their sense of purpose and positive energy towards everything they do. They have taught me more than I could have imagined when I walked into the small but very vibrant space that they have made their own. They have given me a sense of purpose. I have become aware and thankful about the privileges I have. And at the same time, I feel inspired to look at these little friends of mine. I have realized that with all the means I have been given, I can work towards handholding more and more such kids. I’m grateful beyond measure to have met them. I now want to give back to society in ways that matter.
Narsi
Narsi, volunteered at a Mission Education centre of Smile Foundation. She says, “these children lost their parents at a very young age. All they need is a little love, care & hope. I do not miss a single chance to make them feel special. It is a blessing to give your smile to someone who needs it the most.”
To know more visit https://www.smilefoundationindia.org/
