Tuesday marks the 31st International Volunteer Day. Themed “Global Applause, Give Volunteers a Hand,” it aims to recognize volunteers’ work in making the world a better place. In Southwest China’s Sichuan province, a group of college students are teaming up to provide community services.
Rao Lei has been volunteering around since she entered the university two years ago.
“Locals in this community don't have a deep understanding about laws. And since we have a knowledge about that, we'd like to share it with them in an understandable way,” said Rao, team leader of Xulin Volunteer Association, University of Electronic Sci. & Tech. of China.
The volunteers provide legal consultancy ranging from the Constitution to some basic regulations.
“The flyers they gave me introduce clearly China’s laws and regulations. I have a much deeper understanding after they explained to me,” said Chengdu resident Li Binwen.
On campus, 17 volunteer groups are providing services based on their expertise.
The Xulin Volunteer Association advocates special attention to those in need. Community service has been a major focus for this volunteer association since it was launched in 2008. Their contributions come highly commended by locals.
To expand their services, the association is pushing forward a program benefitting left-behind children. It is a routine practice for volunteers to tutor left-behind children. Most of their parents have left their hometown to work in other cities.
“These students receive very limited care from their parents. And when they go home after school, no one is available to tutor them. We hope to help them learn well within our reach,” said Rao.
And the help gets a heartfelt thanks.
“Thanks for your efforts. Your volunteering work has helped me a lot, and fosters my growth. Thank you,” said primary school student Jing Miao.
As a team leader, Rao says the ever-expanding online activities pose a huge challenge. She hopes the team can work out a solution to engage the online population.
“I think volunteer work involves a sense of dedication. We should all team up and give back what we’ve learned to society. I hope more and more people can join us,” Rao said.
By the end of 2015, the number of registered volunteers in China hit 66 million. They are committed to contributing their share and more, to make the world a better place.
