The pandemic changed how we normally do things – working, studying, and even for me, volunteering!
Back during my student days, we would normally took the bus and go to the volunteering centre. We would also volunteer in person, like painted a community centre or helped in the town’s half marathon. When Small Changes’ call for volunteers poster went on my Instagram feed, I knew this was the best thing I could do this year even though we were in lockdown!
The Small Changes Project Beanstalk
So as we go through, I’d like to emphasise on why I did it, how I did it, and what I felt before and after the volunteering sessions.
Why I did it – Giving back to the community.
- I am a big believer in giving back to the community, because it is natural when you’ve received a lot. I have been privileged enough to have these amazing opportunities of good education, good networking etc. There are very few people that could have access to it, so why would I put my ignorance ahead of me? It is only natural to help others in my own capacity.
How I did it
- I came across Small Changes call for volunteer application and I felt, oh why not?
- I filled in a short form on my personal details, my intention of joining and my experiences in volunteering.
- After the application closing date, I was interviewed by the Small Changes committee and it was a chill-get-to-know-you session.
- The Project Beanstalk consist of 4 weekends, and each volunteer shall take two sessions that are not in the same day. So my session as trainer falls on the first Sunday and the last Sunday in a period of a month.
- We were given topics such as Financial Planning for kids, English Empowerment etc. It was interesting that we were only given module objectives and need to come up with our own lesson plans.
- We’ve received support from the SC committee in terms of moral supports and also resources.
What I felt ; before and after
- Before :
- Uncertain : Teaching online is a whole different skillset. The body language expresion is very limited. I was really uncertain and not confident if I’m able to nail it.
- Research : I did a lot of research on what ice breakers or games that are normally used to engage in online classrooms. This is crucial because you need to establish trust with the students. I also researched and used the application ‘mmhmm’ as a filter/webcam tool to make the session more interactive. Here’s the link to what ‘mmhmm’ is : https://www.mmhmm.app/home
- After:
- Proud : I won the award of Best Volunteer! It was really unexpected but it really lift my spirits to do more in life as what else you look forward to in life when you’re stuck at home?
- Content : We built really good relationships with the kids. The kids were also stuck at the orphanages, repeating mundane routine as they weren’t allowed to go to school. Our programme has helped them to become happier, equipped with activities, and give them new skills & knowledge.
You can do this too! Below are some of the list of volunteering initiatives that you can also join
- MYReaders – teaching literacy to children
- SPOT Community Project – Educating comprehensive sexual education
- Teach for Malaysia Volunteer Tutors – impacting students from high-need schools
- Career Mentor with SOLS 24/7 – social empowerment for everyone
- Thrive Well Professional Volunteer – breaking barriers and ending mental health stigma
You may find other volunteering programmes that might suit your schedule, passion, and interest. Feel free to comment below if you like me to add on the list!
I hope you find this useful.