Last year, we worked on a story that profiled five millennials working in non-governmental organizations created for different ways of giving back. Carlo Delantar works for Waves for Water, dedicated to providing clean water to people in need of it. Fennel, founded by Julienne Joven and Vincent Perez, is an NGO that helps different NGOs in communicating their purpose and creating strategies. There’s also Mark Lozano’s One Million Lights PH, which is similar to Waves for Water except it’s for distributing lights instead. Dynamic Teen Company, on the other hand, empowers disadvantaged children and educates them on their rights, says advocate Emanuel Bagual. Truly, these young millennials are breaking the entitled and selfish stereotypes so frequently (and unfairly) placed on their generation.
But you don’t need to be the young founders of NGOs to help people, of course. Volunteering in these groups is already more than enough. Through helping others, you can counter your stress, anger, and anxiety, and learn how to empathize with those who are in need. Aside from the NGOs listed above, here’s some more you can check out. The closer it is to your interests and personality, the better!
Give yourself a much needed break from the toxic city life by volunteering with these organizations:
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization that aims to give shelter to families who don’t have a decent place to live. They build houses that are safer and have more affordable living conditions. Volunteers can choose to participate in actual construction work or spearhead seminars for community development.
Department of Social Welfare and Development
DSWD gives food packs for people in areas that were disaster-stricken by natural calamities such as typhoons and earthquakes. Volunteers will work in the assembly line, packing the food and clothing that will go to the people in need.
Philippine Animal Welfare Society
PAWS is a non-profit organization that pushes for the humane treatment of animals. They rescue abused animals and aid in their rehabilitation until they can be adopted. Volunteers of the organization work for at least eight hours per month, and will work hands-on with the animals. Aside from that, volunteers can also help in planning fundraisers and lobbying for animal rights.
FEED
FEED is dedicated to sustainable education and environment preservation. They offer scholarships to students pursuing degrees like Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Science. Volunteers are invited during their monthly tree-planting activities.
Hands On Manila
Hands On Manila believes in the idea that everyone can serve. They aim to inspire Filipinos into doing volunteer work and contribute to society in meaningful ways. They have volunteer programs made for both individuals and groups who want to be a part of their causes.
By Bea Amador