The past few months have not been the way the world expected. COVID-19 has disrupted an individual’s personal, emotional, physical, social and mental wellbeing, which in turn has affected each one’s economic status as well. Thousands of companies, franchises, and NGOs are either having to shut down or are working in financially poor conditions, which is devastating. However, there are a few individuals who despite their own troubles, are reaching out to others. They are stepping up to volunteer with organisations, helping and contributing during these testing times and creating a positive change in the lives of others.
Volunteering is simply an act by an individual or a group of people who willingly spare their time, money, efforts and share their knowledge/ skills in helping an organization and thereby provide service to the community. With Covid 19 and maintaining social distance as a norm, stepping out to volunteer has become a challenge. However, people who are determined to help others have found a way. Like everything else, volunteering too has gone virtual. Volunteers are using technology to their advantage to connect with organisations and are providing their services online.
NIIT Foundation is one such non-government organization that has always welcomed volunteers and has been encouraging them to share their skills and knowledge by connecting online with the beneficiaries in these times as well . While there are several topics on which one can engage with students and organisations today, from the comfort of one’s home and create a positive impact, here are three ways in which one can volunteer in Covid times:
- Spread Awareness about the Organisation: Many organisations are seeking help in spreading awareness about their work. Today, with each one being on social media, one can help organisations speak about their work on social media platforms. Volunteers can help with catchy phrases, images and recordings to share the vision and on ground impact of organisations. NIIT Foundation encourages volunteers to contribute towards brand promotion through social media, content development for website and the traditional way of spreading awareness through word of mouth.
- Content Writing, Editing and Designing: Volunteers can also showcase their editing and writing skills. Many organisations need help with report writing, editing, developing impact stories etc. Volunteers who work well with software can spend time in editing or correcting photographs, video editing, website and graphic design.
- Online Classes for Students: With many schools and colleges shut, ensuring that learning continues, especially for those from underprivileged communities is the need of the hour. Volunteers taking out time to conduct virtual classes on a range of topics and issues is a good way to contribute to these times. With classes moving online, these students also need mentoring, counseling and help with using technology. Sessions on how to attend online classes through various platforms, cyber safety, how to use MS office, how to send emails, how to create a resume are some of the sessions that can be conducted. Motivational sessions on Mental Well- Being, Managing Stress, Personality Development, Communication skills, how to prepare for Job Interviews etc. are a few more topics which will really help in bringing about a positive change for students.
One does not need to step out to help others anymore. We can be there and engage with beneficiaries and organisations even from home. There are many ways in which one can reach out. If you are thinking of contributing to society, there is no better time to Volunteer.
