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Volunteerism is deeply embedded in cultures worldwide. According to the United Nations, over one billion people volunteer globally. In the United Arab Emirates, volunteer work is particularly vibrant. For instance, by 2020, more than half a million individuals were officially registered on volunteers.ae, the UAE's largest national volunteering platform, dedicated to expanding and enhancing volunteer opportunities throughout the country.
Volunteerism is the commitment of time and energy to benefit the community, environment, or individuals outside one's immediate family. It is motivated by a genuine desire to help, without any expectation of financial compensation or reward. Volunteers take pride in their contributions and find satisfaction in the joy they bring to others
The primary goal of volunteer work is to serve the public good, enhance social well-being, and protect the rights, dignity, and cultural heritage of individuals. Sheri Anderson, a key figure in humanitarian affairs at the United Nations, aptly notes, "Volunteers don't get paid, not because they're worthless, but because they're priceless."
Firstly, it is important to distinguish between two main types of volunteer work: official and informal. Official volunteer work is organised by non-profits or community entities, while informal volunteer work is arranged independently by individuals, such as friends or family, without formal oversight.
The impact of volunteer work grows with increased participation, particularly when larger organisations are involved in coordinating and managing these efforts. Volunteer work can be applied in various areas, either individually or in groups. Some of the most significant and prevalent ones include:
This field is dedicated to supporting individuals and families in need, often partnering with charitable organisations and specialised institutions such as elderly care centres, orphanages, and homeless shelters. Assistance may include providing material aid like clothes and medicines, offering nutritious meals, organising recreational activities and events, and fostering joy and positivity among those in distress.
Volunteering opportunities in healthcare settings are frequently customised based on individuals' educational backgrounds and professional experiences, enabling them to make meaningful contributions in hospitals, clinics, and other health centres. These roles might involve leading educational workshops on topics like first aid or diabetes to raise awareness; offering emotional support to patients and families by organising recreational activities that provide relief and uplift spirits; or assisting medical staff by greeting patients, verifying their information, managing medical records, and more.
This field is perfect for those who possess expertise in a particular scientific area and find fulfilment in sharing their knowledge. Such individuals can volunteer to teach and mentor students at schools, universities, and cultural and training centres.
They can offer free, insightful courses on diverse topics that benefit both students and educators. For example, they might conduct a course to guide students in choosing a university major or managing their study schedules. Additionally, they can volunteer to support students facing learning challenges or provide complimentary lessons in subjects like English or other areas where students need assistance.
This area provides volunteers with the chance to combine adventure and meaningful work. Participants collaborate with environmental or animal welfare organisations to raise awareness about climate change and advocate for environmental conservation. Activities include waste recycling, utilising renewable energy, and conserving water and electricity.
It also includes safeguarding wildlife and endangered species by caring for animals in shelters, which involves cleaning cages, providing food, administering treatment, and organising tree planting campaigns in parks and public areas. It also encompasses cleaning beaches and marine environments, and promoting awareness about the importance of reducing litter. Furthermore, a 2018 EU-funded study revealed that over 150 million tons of plastic contaminate the seas and oceans.
Volunteering in this field encompasses a range of activities, including guiding guests at cultural and entertainment events such as sports matches, seminars, national celebrations, and graduation ceremonies. It also involves training individuals in sports clubs and educating them on health topics like safe weight management. Additionally, volunteers may lead engaging workshops on topics like cooking, embroidery, and drawing at cultural and social centres, as well as conduct awareness sessions about the risks of smoking and the effects of an unhealthy lifestyle.
Conclusion
The outlined examples highlight just a fraction of the diverse areas where volunteer work can be applied. Numerous opportunities exist that align with various interests and skills. To find suitable options, one can contact local organisations engaged in volunteer work for guidance and structured involvement.
Alongside "Volunteers.ae" platform, prominent volunteer organisations and platforms in the UAE include the Emirates Red Crescent, the National Volunteer Program for Emergencies, Crises and Disasters, the Dubai Volunteer Program, the Sharjah Volunteer Center, and the Emirates Voluntary Academy in Abu Dhabi. The UAE places a strong emphasis on volunteerism to promote sustainable development and build a better future for coming generations. It also ensures that responsible institutions organise volunteer work and community service activities nationwide.
References
[1] communityindustrygroup.org.au, What is volunteering?
[2] volunteerlimerick.ie, Definition & Principles of Volunteering
[3] rosterfy.com, 12 Different Types of Volunteering Work You Can Try
[4] worldpackers.com, 15 types of volunteer work and how to choose the right one
[5] u.ae, u.ae, منصات التطوع
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