Dec, 2023
Celebrating International Volunteers Day with Nahno Volunteers
In a world buzzing with activities, sometimes a single, inspired act has the power to make a difference. Imagine that power multiplied across borders, cultures, and communities.
On this International Volunteers Day (marked annually on December 5 by the United Nations), join Anera and its partners on a journey of transformative impact as we delve into the profound significance of volunteering and its ripple effects across the world, and especially in the Middle East. Volunteering goes beyond selflessness and giving back — it's a journey, that not only impacts communities but also shapes the volunteers themselves.
At Anera, we believe in the power of volunteering to create positive change, and we are proud to be a part of Nahno Volunteers — an innovative platform connecting passionate youth with meaningful opportunities.
Why Volunteering Matters
Besides philanthropy and selflessness, why is volunteering so important Numerous studies have shown that volunteers develop valuable skills, boost their well-being, and open doors to future professional success. Volunteering can even be a strategic career move, enhancing employability and income potential for individuals.
On a larger scale, studies also show that volunteering plays a crucial role in shaping local and global economies. According to Andy Haldane, Chief Economist of the Bank of England, if measured to its fullest extent (the value of working hours and well-being benefits), the contribution of volunteering in the United Kingdom’s gross economy could be somewhere between £50 billion and £200 billion per year — about $63 to $253 billion! And there's no reason to think the United Kingdom is unusual in this regard.
Anera's Commitment in Action
Anera's commitment to empowering youth through volunteering is exemplified by stories like that of Ahmad, a 21-year-old Lebanese man who recently graduated from university. Seeking to fulfill his academic course requirements, Ahmad applied for a volunteering opportunity and began his journey.
Despite considering himself unsocial and lacking the energy for large groups, Ahmad's experience at a food security distribution with Anera challenged his preconceptions. He found himself smoothly interacting with over 30 different people daily.
"The skills I was gaining were brand new to me. I did not know I had good 'people skills' in me until I practiced it in action. It gave me a push, and I started taking on new tasks as a volunteer."
Ahmad's newfound skills not only transformed his volunteering experience but also propelled him into a full-time role with Anera.
"The skills I was gaining were brand new to me."
Ahmad has a message for other young people, and to his past self:
“Volunteering makes you feel and sense things you never felt before. You feel inner peace, you feel alive. And you will always be paid, it is never free of charge — the difference here is that you will be paid with smiles, gratitude and warm feelings of satisfaction. And trust me, it is worth it.”
“Volunteering makes you feel and sense things you never felt before."
In recognition of the profound impact and need for volunteerism, The National Youth Engagement and Volunteering program was established as a fruit of collaboration between several entities including the Lebanese Ministry of Social Affairs, UNICEF, Anera, and LiveLove, among others. The program aims to develop institutionalized mechanisms for youth social and civic engagement and establish platforms to connect youth to one another, as well as to a diverse range of entities, thereby facilitating the creation of youth-led action. Hence the Nahno-Volunteers Platform was born.
Nahno-Volunteers: Connecting Passion to Purpose
The National Youth Engagement and Volunteering Movement Platform (Nahno-Volunteers) is an innovative tool that allows youth to register and be matched to relevant engagement opportunities near them or online.
Companies, non-governmental organizations, and institutions (partners) can post the engagement and volunteering opportunities they have available for youth on the platform. The platform is designed to be flexible and adaptive to the needs, skills, and interests of the participating youth and partners, creating a dynamic space that adapts to the unique needs, skills, and interests of both the youth and the partners involved.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Embrace the spirit of giving and join the movement! Register on Nahno-Volunteers today and unlock a world of opportunities to learn, grow, and make a lasting impact on your community. Your journey towards personal development and community betterment starts here.
Let's celebrate International Volunteers Day by taking a step towards a brighter, more connected future. Together, we can truly make a difference!
