But why volunteer? What are the advantages of volunteering? Why is it important to encourage people to volunteer? What's the point of doing things for ‘nothing’? There are so many definitions of volunteering. This ‘selfless act’ of doing ‘stuff for free’ has always fascinated me! Michal Siewniak (Image: Courtesy of Michal Siewniak) I have tried, since a very young age, to get involved in projects and activities which helped me not only to connect and reach out to other people but also hugely boosted my confidence and skills. Although some would argue that my opportunities back home, during communism, were rather limited (e.
g. no existing NGO/ Third Sector) to volunteer, I was still able to be part of many local projects which benefited the local community. I remember one particular situation when in late 1990s the Western part of Poland was completely flooded.
People lost everything. As a ‘born activist', I always thought that sitting at home and worrying won’t change anything - so when my church community decided to organise a bus to support those who were in desperate need of help, I was ready to do my small part. I must admit that devastation was overwhelming.
You build your house, you save money to renovate it, you dream of paying it off when you retire and it literally goes overnight. As a councillor, I have plenty of opportunities to meet countless inspiring individuals and organisations. Only a few weeks’ ago, I met a truly fantastic group of local mu.
