What work do volunteers do at NGOs?

What work do volunteers do at NGOs? NGOs and charitable organizations in our country are always looking out for dedicated volunteers to join hands with them. Since many popular NGOs are working on at least 2-3 projects at a time, volunteers can reduce their burden and help out, especially if they are understaffed. My area of interest has always been working with young kids, so when an opportunity opened up to work at an NGO for children, I took it up immediately. My experience as a volunteer was great, with a few ups and downs along the way.

The work to be done will vary from organization to organization, but the work I did during my time of 9 months included mainly interacting with the children with the help of mid day meals. I was responsible for helping the teachers of the schools where we served mid day meals come up with new modules for the distribution, how to keep the food hot and healthy, maintain decorum during mid day meal distribution. Besides this, sometimes I also helped the children with arts and crafts, and other extra-curricular activities like sports and games. Donations for children had time and the teachers loved me for it.

These became a part of my regular routine during the 9 months that I volunteered at the NGO. During the second week, the NGO was conducting an initiative to distribute meals and rations as a part of the new project that they started. It was basically a program where people donate to NGO during any special occasion. So, I was required to gather the children and help them out with the entire distribution.

The most fun time for me was during the Christmas season. I was given the task of helping out with fundraising as I had some social media skills. Every year, they sell hand-made candles and jute bags during the festive season to raise funds.

Since we wanted more people to attend, I had an idea to use social media to promote the event as well. This was a lot of fun because I got to see how the candles were made, and also interacted with so many new people. The children even put up a dance and music performance during the event.

During my time as a volunteer, I developed more confidence, leadership skills, and communicating with people of different ages. I had a great time and would love to go back when I return home.