The Power of Volunteering: Reflections from 200 Hours of Service
I recently attended a 'Visiting Volunteer Training' session conducted by the Uljin Volunteer Center at the Uljin Administrative Welfare Center in Eonyang-eup.
Over 50 participants, including youth and new volunteers, engaged in learning the basics of volunteering and even had the opportunity to create donation items.
It was heartening to see so many young students participating, which gave me hope for the future of volunteering in the Ulsan region.
Having served as a Ulsan city blog reporter for a long time and accumulated over 200 hours of volunteer work, this experience became a special moment for self-reflection beyond mere reporting.
On the day of the training, the auditorium was filled with vibrant energy from the morning.
The youth participants filled the seats with excited expressions, while the instructors eased the atmosphere with friendly greetings.
The first session was a lecture on the 'Meaning of Volunteering,' where the word 'service' felt heavier and deeper than ever.
The instructor described volunteering as 'the smallest act that creates positive change in the lives of others.' I resonated deeply with this statement.
Initially, my desire to volunteer stemmed from a simple wish to help, but over time, I realized that volunteering has been a transformative experience for my personal growth.
One of the most impactful parts of the training was the discussion on the role of volunteers.
We must develop the ability to identify issues in our communities.
We should think about ways to engage continuously.
Even small actions can lead to significant changes.
These three messages struck a chord with me.
Despite my extensive volunteer experience, I felt there is still much to learn and made a commitment to plan my future volunteer activities more systematically.
After the lecture, we participated in a card wallet-making experience.
Each table was set with colorful leather pieces, threads, and needles, and participants helped each other to create their wallets with care.
Though I struggled initially and had to redo my work several times, a sense of pride washed over me when I held the completed wallet.
These wallets will be delivered to underprivileged neighbors through a food bank market, warming my heart at the thought of my handmade item being used by someone in need.
Volunteering brings fulfillment and joy.
Sometimes, I wonder if my small contributions truly matter.
However, this training provided me with a clear answer: 'Volunteering is for me.'
Through volunteering, I meet new people, share laughter, and solve problems, enriching my life immensely.
The sense of fulfillment and joy I gain from this process is an invaluable experience that cannot be replaced by any reward.
The Uljin Volunteer Center plans to continue offering volunteer training throughout the year, including the recent session in Eonyang-eup.
Organizations and groups wishing to receive training can apply through the Ulsan Volunteer Center's website.
This visiting volunteer training was not just a simple lecture; it was a time to ask fundamental questions about 'why I volunteer.'
As a Ulsan city blog reporter and a volunteer, I hope to share this meaningful experience with more citizens in the future.
Even small actions can make our community warmer when we come together.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/ulsan_nuri/224181147313
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