My volunteer story started in December 2015. I have been a volunteer for a short time, but even in that short time I could single out the experiences I gained volunteering in the "New Generation", more precisely in the Day Center for Children at Risk. I learned about this organization from a volunteer who has been volunteering there for a long time. But I decided on this lifelong vocation of a volunteer after representatives of the "New Generation" came to the Faculty of Philosophy and presented their projects. Without thinking, I realized that this is what I wanted for a long time.
I was invited for an interview in December. I had no nervousness at all, I couldn't wait for it to pass and to start volunteering, I felt a lot of positive energy and self-confidence, I was determined and sure of what I wanted. The employees of this organization are really such good people, approachable, kind, open to conversation and ready to give advice. All these factors encouraged and encouraged me. From the moment of education, familiarization with the program and work of the Day Center, socializing with volunteers and signing the contract, my wish came true. I became a volunteer of this organization. In addition to studying psychology, I wanted to gain experience in practical work, and this will definitely affect my professional work. It is an excellent opportunity to socialize, to acquire new knowledge, skills, get to know each other and above all, an opportunity to help someone.
The most important thing is that when we approach volunteering, we feel the desire and motivation that leads us to help, especially children, those sweet and sincere beings, because making them smile, encouraging them to think and encouraging them to find something new (talents, various abilities) are indicators that you make their life happier.
The first day of volunteering was not so long ago, these are still fresh events. My appointment is in the morning, so on the first day of volunteering, I met a cute little girl A. She immediately asked me to practice cases, because she had a Serbian test that day. I was glad that she accepted me so quickly, I was happy that I could help her. She wanted me to be her teacher. My heart was flooded by a gentle tide of love and some sweet feelings. You realize that it's really worth it to be there. I often play board games with the boys, it's the most interesting for them, because the period when I was with them was also a vacation, so they were more relaxed and not under constant pressure to do some homework. They are so smart and wise. They often beat me in board games. In fact, once we finished a board game, the boy S. cried because he lost. The boy could not bear defeat. I said it was just a game, teaching him to be strong and never give up and that he would win next time. The boy immediately cheered up. I thought, what wonderful and uncorrupted hearts they are.
I was so happy to attend a boy's birthday and watch them in those moments. They are all like one family. Both the staff and volunteers are so friendly. We can always learn something new from each other. I like to see when children participate in creative workshops, where they make jewelry (earrings, bracelets, chains). The most interesting thing for me was when a little girl S. told me: "You can take this to your husband". She was referring to some jewelry. She made me laugh sweetly and I explained to her that I don't have a husband and told her: "I'm not married and I don't have a husband, I don't look that much older." I realized that these are still children's thoughts and that it will take some time for them to get to know us, because they can often persecute new volunteers.
When I come to the Day Care Center, I take a break from my duties and university, working with children, playing, learning and talking about various topics. I can learn something from them too.
I feel fulfilled, when I can contribute to the beautification of their lives with my presence. I recommend "New Generation" as a very good place for future volunteers, as future professionals in the work of humanities. Because, one day when I return to my city, I'm sure that apart from the moments of studying, I'll take with me beautiful memories acquired with those children. Volunteering deepens our consciousness, we get to know ourselves, we understand who we are, we spread good mood, we help above all.
The meaning of life is in the selfless giving of love, attention, and help, and the smiles and sparkle in children's eyes are the answers to our invested time, commitment and effort. This is my little volunteer experience and an introductory volunteer story for those who are yet to follow, and they will be written with wonderful moments, workshops, games, gained while working with these children.
I know I'm investing my time in something good. If you made someone smile, that's the value of existence, because...the happiness of others is my happiness too!
– Suzana Teofilović
