Volunteering is inherently about doing good, whether it’s lending a hand to others or offering resources. Those who volunteer outside of school typically do so out of genuine willingness and desire to make a positive impact in their communities.
Genuine Intentions or Personal Gain?
Although synonymous with altruism, programs like VIA (Values In Action) that is incorporated in our education system in Singapore offers academic points for volunteering. This prompts reflection on the true motives some might have behind lending aid or doing community service.
The issue arises when students volunteer primarily for personal gain, such as accumulating points for exams or bolstering their resumes. In these cases, the true spirit of volunteering, which is selflessly helping others, may be compromised.
While the motives behind student volunteering may vary, what ultimately counts is the impact. These students are still aiding others, benefiting society in the process.
Moreover, engaging in diverse volunteering activities may foster a genuine passion for community service, ensuring their continued involvement in the future. Thus, despite mixed intentions, student volunteering remains a positive endeavour in my opinion.
While it’s tempting for students to prioritise personal gain, volunteering should ideally stem from genuine interest and passion.
With numerous avenues available, from assisting animals to supporting the elderly or the disabled, students should explore diverse opportunities aligned with their interests.
Passion for volunteering
Here are some organisations that students can consider volunteering at:
- Habitat for Humanity Singapore : Builds homes and communities for those in need through volunteer efforts. (https://www.habitat.org.sg/)
- Food from the Heart : Distributes food to the needy and runs various food-related programs. (https://www.foodfromtheheart.sg/)
- Singapore Red Cross : Offers various volunteer opportunities in disaster relief, blood donation drives, and community service. (https://redcross.sg/)
- Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) : Provides care and shelter to animals in need, relying on volunteers for support. (https://spca.org.sg/)
As such, students should actively engage in volunteering, whether driven by passion or personal gain, as it contributes positively to society. The more people involved, the greater the impact.
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