Friday 6 December 2013

Making a Difference This Christmas

BY: LEE JIA MIN



I did my first volunteering job overseas, and I believe that it not only made a difference to my life, but also to the people that I helped. I used to think that helping others, or volunteering would be a chore and a waste of time, but the volunteering job that I did changed my mind. Not only would volunteering or helping others make one smile, but also, put a smile on others’ faces.

There are lots of organisations in Singapore, reaching out to those in need. These organisations run with a common vision to give their beneficiaries a hope for the future. However, these organisations would not be able to accomplish this mission without volunteers, or donations.

This Christmas, share and spread the spirit of giving by do something good. The underprivileged in Singapore might not even have a chance to celebrate the season. You might be at home with your family and friends, enjoying your favourite food. But these people, the underprivileged, might just be sitting at home, not knowing and understanding the joy of Christmas.

You can, however, warm the hearts of these people by participating in voluntary activities, or simply by donating items to charity organisations. If you do not know which organisation to start from, try The Salvation Army. The Salvation Army was established in Singapore in 1935, and has been continuously serving the underprivileged in the country, regardless of age, race or religion.

Every Christmas, you see people with red aprons, ringing the bells on their hands with The Salvation’s Army pot beside them. Ever wanted to join them in this good act? In this season of giving, you can volunteer for The Salvation Army as a bell-ringer. Along with the pot, hit the streets and ring the bells to appeal for donations.

You can also choose to donate your pre-loved items to The Salvation Army. Simply drop off the items at City Square Mall, or visit The Salvation Army’s website at http://sg.salvationarmy.org/ for more details on how you could donate.

One might think that these voluntary services or donations might not help much, but they are in fact, little steps to bringing joy and helping others.

There are, however, many other organisations you can donate to, or volunteer your services at. It might not necessary need be The Salvation Army, but no matter which charity organisation you decide to volunteer at, or donate to, know that you would make a difference, not only to others, but your own too.

After all, Greg Louganis once said, “Never underestimate your ability to make someone else’s life better – even if you never know it”.

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