Blogs - Volunteering in Uganda

Webmasters May 26, 2021 No Comments

RESEARCH ON VOLUNTEERISM AND ITS CONSQUENCES

Volunteerism is a form of helping in which people actively seek out opportunities. To assist others in need, make considerable and continuing commitments to assist. And sustain these commitments over extended periods, often at considerable personal cost. Several features mark it as a distinctive form of helping. Unlike the helping that occurs spontaneously in response to emergencies, volunteers typically seek out opportunities to help. Unlike the obligated helping that occurs in the context of ongoing relationships. Volunteers typically do not know those they help in advance and have no prior bonds of obligation to help them.

To understand the psychology of volunteerism, researchers have identified diverse personal and social motivations served by volunteering. Have developed inventories to assess these motivations, and explored their role in the processes. By which people initiate and sustain their involvement in voluntary helping. Theoretically, the study of volunteerism is informative about forms of helping that are playful, sustained. And that occurs in the absence of bonds of obligation. Practically, it can inform the practice of volunteerism. Specifically, the ways that organizations can enhance the recruitment, placement, and retention of volunteers.

CONSEQUENCES OF VOLUNTEERISM

Research on the consequences of volunteerism has considered its effects on the volunteers themselves. The recipients of volunteer services, and the wider community. Snyder and Omoto (2008) review outcomes that include changes in attitudes and knowledge. Improved health and subjective well-being, changes in behavior, and the establishment of community bonds. For example, studies of volunteers who work with people living with HIV/AIDS have revealed that such volunteerism leads to increases in knowledge of safer sex practices, reductions in stereotypical beliefs about individuals with HIV/AIDS, and increases in comfort in discussing issues relevant to

HIV/AIDS. Studies of consequences in other volunteer domains have found increases in volunteer self-esteem, self-efficacy and confidence, and even improved academic achievement. In addition, volunteering has been linked to positive health outcomes for volunteers, including increased optimism and longer life, and has been linked to higher subjective well-being for those volunteers who have experienced past traumatic life events.

As reviewed by Snyder and Omoto (2008),

the benefits of volunteering extend to the actual recipients of volunteer service. And to the organizations through which volunteers serve. For example, individuals living with HIV/AIDS who have a volunteer providing companionship. And home help has been shown to have better psychological functioning as compared to those without a volunteer companion. However, more research needs to be conducted on the impact of volunteer help on aid recipients, to determine. For example, whether receiving volunteer assistance might be threatening to recipients’ self-esteem or self-efficacy. More research is also needed on the positive impacts of volunteerism on service organizations. To build upon the aforementioned economic benefits to organizations and the growth of social capital.

The building of community bonds and social networks occurs for volunteers, help recipients. And a member of the organizations through which volunteers serve (Omoto and Snyder, 2010). These community bonds have been linked to not only volunteer behavior maintenance but also the willingness of community members. To engage in other efforts aimed at improving the quality of life for the community. Including the amount of money donated in support of causes, attending fund-raisers, and engaging in civic and political activism. In addition, these social networks increase the overall effectiveness of volunteers. As well as serve as means to recruit future volunteers.

Thus, psychological research on the consequences of volunteerism has documented benefits for individual volunteers. The recipients of volunteer services, the organizations through which volunteers serve, and the wider community. For volunteers and recipients, these include health and psychological benefits, as well as increased social capital. For organizations and communities, the benefits include the improved capability to address problems. And the ability to keep volunteers involved for longer periods.

Webmasters April 20, 2021 5 Comments

EXPECTATIONS OF ALL VOLUNTEERS

TEN BASIC EXPECTATIONS THAT ALL VOLUNTEERS HAVE WHEN THEY GIVE THEIR TIME TO AN ORGANISATION, AND THAT THE ORGANISATION SHOULD BE ABLE TO MEET

EXPECTATIONS

Volunteers should not be expected to undertake tasks that they are uncomfortable with, or are physically incapable of performing to an adequate standard.
Volunteers should be given tasks that match their personal goals, skills, and motivation as far as is possible within the organization.
They should be recruited only where all staff agrees to the arrangement and welcome.
volunteers – paid staff need to have a clear understanding of the role of the volunteer.
Volunteers should never be used to perform tasks that are or have previously been done by paid workers.
They should not be charged anything to give their time, except for traveling and accommodation expenses, and in cases where the project requires a once-off volunteering fee.
Volunteer organizations should be committed to operating an equal opportunities policy, and work within it about their volunteers.
Volunteers should understand the lines of supervision by the staff at the organization. Formal supervision should exist and this should provide volunteers with the opportunity to develop their skills.
Volunteers who are not accepted when applying to an organization have a right to know the reasons why.
They should receive other support and training if necessary.
Volunteers should rely on organizations for ensuring that all health and safety procedures are in place at the project.

Expectations of an organization from volunteers

They should rely on organizations for ensuring that all health and safety procedures are in place at the project.
Volunteers should be reliable, and if they commit to performing certain tasks at certain times, they should be expected to meet this commitment. Volunteers need time off work just like paid employees, but it’s fair to expect them to give some notice if the time off doesn’t fall over an agreed-upon rest period, like a weekend.
They must always work within the aims, objectives, and ethos of the organization.
Volunteers encountering problems with their tasks or the organization should be honest about it with the staff.
Volunteers must respect confidentiality at the organization at all times.
Right person, right role – a volunteer interview is an ideal opportunity for both sides to find out about each other. Both the volunteer and the organization need to know that they can work happily together. Be honest and upfront with your expectations.

RIGHTS

Volunteers should be given role descriptions and written outlines of tasks they may be expected to perform. The more clarity there is about expectations before a commitment is made, the better for all parties.
You’re allowed to say “No”. Both volunteers and organizations have the right to state if they don’t think the relationship will work out. However, it’s right for parties to expect explanations for such a decision.
Good preparation is essential to help new volunteers settle into their roles. There might be a lot to take in at the beginning (especially if there is an added element of culture shock!). A new volunteer at a project should have access to all the information and support they need.
A trial period for new volunteers is a good idea for both organization and volunteers. As it allows an opportunity to review any problems, and to decide if the arrangement won’t work out. If a trial period is going to be used, this must be made clear from the outset, and feedback should be given if everything goes well. Trial periods should be applied to ALL new volunteers.

In conclusion, Volunteers need ongoing support and supervision to ensure that they are happy with their role. Developing their skills, and achieving their full potential within the organization. Appropriate support ensures that volunteers remain motivated to continue with their voluntary role and helps them to feel valued.

Webmasters March 11, 2021 No Comments

THE ELEVEN PROVEN BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING

Did you know that we, as a society, value volunteers so much that we even put a monetary value on their time? Our volunteer work may be more valuable than our regular work!

The Independent Sector is an organization that gathers tons of statistics about charitable activities, places, and the Estimated National Value of Each Volunteer Hour every year. That value stands, as of 2019, at $27.20 an hour. The actual amount varies from state to state, but we can see that volunteers are precious people.

But money means nothing to volunteers. They do it for many other reasons, but primarily to help other people or animals. Nevertheless, there are many side effects of volunteering that make it even more worthwhile.

Most of us want to help those less fortunate than ourselves. We do not volunteer, for the most part, because it benefits us. We volunteer because it makes a difference.

But, there are even more benefits to volunteering. We notice a subtle shift in ourselves when we volunteer. Volunteers feel more connected to others, and we become less absorbed in the normal stresses of daily life. We share our experiences with others and want to help more.

Here are eleven proven benefits of volunteering. Maybe one of them will convince you to get off the couch and out the door to engage with your community.

Benefits to Volunteering.

Volunteering Builds Community. You strengthen your community and your social network when you volunteer. You make connections with the people you are helping, and you cultivate
Increases Socializing

Socially, the benefits of volunteering show up quickly and have long-term effects. Social interaction improves mental and physical health. The benefits of consistent socializing include better brain function and a lower risk for depression and anxiety. You also improve your immune system.

Builds Bonds, Creates Friends

Volunteering creates stronger bonds between friends, family, and coworkers. People build closer relationships, better connections, and more powerful attachments to people when they work together. If you feel the need for deeper connections with other people, try volunteering. You might live longer and be happier.

Develops Emotional Stability

Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, low self-esteem, and even Obsessive Compulsive Disorder have all been helped by volunteering. When people with OCD, PTSD, or anger management issues volunteer, they feel more connected to others. They have an increased sense of purpose. Connection and meaning translate to decreased symptoms and improved social function.

Improves Self-Esteem

When teens or young adults volunteer, they develop self-esteem, confidence, and feelings of self-worth. Imagine the benefits of volunteering today, where both girls and boys struggle with self-esteem issues. Consider the advantages of volunteering for teens and young adults with eating disorders, social anxiety, and depression. Volunteering could be life-changing (and life-saving).

Promotes Longevity

While everyone benefits from a little boost in physical health, long-term volunteers have longer lives, less disease, and better overall health. One report says that people who volunteer over 100 hours a year are some of the healthiest people in the U.S.

Reduces Risk of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease has become a frightening possibility for millions of individuals in the U.S. and globally. However, some research has shown that people who volunteer may be at a lower risk of dementia.

Studies from the Journal of Gerontology indicate that social service improves elasticity in the brain. As volunteers age, they may be able to maintain the connections in their brains that often break down in Alzheimer’s patients. Any social interaction can help delay or prevent Alzheimer’s, and volunteering can be a fantastic way to do that.

Leads to Graceful Aging

Older volunteers benefit the most from getting out of the house, engaging with others, and moving physically. Purpose and collaboration result in mental health improvements and a better outlook on life.

Studies indicate that senior volunteers experience the most physical benefit from their service, possibly because being active and engaged leads to more happiness.

Older people who volunteer often feel younger and chronically ill people may have fewer symptoms and pain. Some research has even found that volunteers may have less heart disease.

Burns That Stubborn Belly Fat

With more people in traditional desk jobs, we live a more sedentary lifestyle than ever before. The risks associated with the less daily movement include back pain, disease, obesity, and more stress and mental illness. When we volunteer, even if it is not a physically demanding project, we still get up and get moving.

Walking around a shelter or food bank, playing with kids at the local YMCA, or visiting with elderly patients at a neighborhood nursing home all require that you do more than sitting at a desk or on a couch. You could even choose to volunteer for causes or programs that make you more active, such as youth sports programs or national parks.

Volunteers live longer and are more likely to take care of themselves in general, including getting vaccinations and keeping their weight under control. Volunteering at something that requires physical energy may be more motivating than just walking around the block.

Webmasters February 15, 2021 4 Comments

THE MOTIVE TO VOLUNTEERING

Volunteering either through individual or group action is away in which: human values of community,
caring and serving can be sustained and strengthened it is a fundamental building block of civil society. It
brings to life the noble aspirations of human kind, the pursuit of peace, freedom, opportunity, safety.
For every reason a person volunteers, there is a need associated and to effectively convey gratitude, it is
necessary to determine what everyone’s distinct need is. Everyone has a button that can be pushed and the
issue is intriguing each potential volunteer so they will become ebullient in a distinct way. These
necessities include, an agency that has a stimulating mission has a good reputation, is effective at what it
does, is financially secure, and makes them feel needed and valuable. A program that successfully attracts
and retains volunteers reduces the number of people entering and exiting through a revolving door, saves
volunteer leaders from the incessant undertaking of filling roles, and offers gratifying and enduring
volunteer experiences.

There are several factors relating to peoples’ motives for volunteering, which included the following:

a) Serves as a groundwork for employment
b) Presents a reward for displeasing employment
c) Offers opportunities to meet people and build relationships
d) Provides opportunity for personal growth, development, and recognition
Maxwell (1993) addressed factors associated with the motivation of volunteers. When people are
involved in creating something, they will support it because they have an investment in the issue, which
can be referred to as goal participation. Displeased volunteers are eager or inspired to make an immediate
change; also known as positive dissatisfaction.

“Potential board members, volunteers, and staff who feel their skills and passion will be put to good use
will be inclined to contribute their efforts to a successful non-profit, advancing their active participation in
the community while benefiting your non-profit and its mission” (LaPiana & Hayes, 2005, p. 42). These
authors also discussed that some competitive challenges distinctive to these organizations include the
following: community involvement, mission, and public perception. It is essential to keep these elements
in mind regarding attracting, motivating, and retaining volunteers.

Significant contributions, goal participation, positive dissatisfaction, recognition, and clear expectations
also motivate people to engage in volunteer work. People may be interested in volunteering based on
altruistic or instrumental motives. Furthermore, some people are inspired to engage in volunteer roles
because of ethical motives such as a desire to help others, religious beliefs, believe it is a social duty, or
help themselves feel better. Others with influential reasons may want to prepare for employment
opportunities, better use free time, interact with others, gain experience in a field, or help with displeasing
employment issues. They also explained that when volunteers work in an encouraging environment,
recognize efforts, and work to maintain positive relationships, they are more likely to remain engaged.

Other reasons that motivate people to engage in volunteer capacities include significant contributions,
goal participation, positive dissatisfaction, recognition, and clear expectations.

When it is appropriate for volunteers to assist in recruiting other volunteers, Retention can be positively impacted. Furthermore,
when volunteers represent an organization, this indicates trust, a confident organizational culture, and
assurance that the agency offers a worthwhile experience for the volunteers. Fisher and Cole (1993)
explained that psychological needs can impact a person’ interest and decision to volunteer. An
environment can influence the choice to continue volunteering. Hager and Brudney (2004) explained that
age can be a factor in volunteer engagement and commitment. They continued to discuss that people
under age 24 are known to have lower retention rates and are less likely to sustain relationships compared
to older volunteers. Due to the substantial preparation and consideration associated with a person’s
decision to volunteer suggests that individual needs are essential foundations of volunteer motivation
(Dwyer, et al., 2013).

This involves determining where people fit, how their abilities can be put to proper use, and then provides
them with the tools needed to adequately perform their roles. Volunteers are more likely to remain
engaged when they have the resources needed to successfully perform their position, have a clear
understanding of expectations, are interviewed, and reasonably placed in their appointment.
In conclusion People engage in volunteer capacities because they care; therefore, it is essential to provide
them with opportunities to contribute as much as they can.

Webmasters February 12, 2021 15 Comments

VOLUNTEERING AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

While popular images of volunteers may focus on a specific individual service, such as looking after
the sick or elderly, this is only one of many possible volunteer roles today. The historical evolution in
the perception, practice, and philosophy of volunteers has meant greater recognition of a diversity of
understandings about volunteering work. These can now encompass reciprocity as well as ‘helping’,
capacity development beyond charity, professionalism in addition to well-meaning unskilled labor,
at the same time as dealing with causes and symptoms. These notions of volunteering as building
solidarity and empowerment and supporting local ownership and values may also be regarded today
as capacity development.

“On Volunteering and Social Development”,

Davis Smith suggested a framework for defining and understanding the meaning of volunteering (United Nations Volunteers, 2001). It depended on the setting and a typology of volunteering was clarified based on the outcome or purpose. He identified four basic types of voluntary activity: mutual aid or self-help; philanthropy or service to
others, participation; and advocacy.

The typology was particularly interesting from a development perspective in its acknowledgment of
mutual aid or self-help. In the North this might not be considered typically a volunteer activity), while
in the developing world it is recognized for the social and economic support it provides for a high
proportion of the population.

In other words, there is some diversity in language about volunteering with some people equating it
with service and others suggesting service implies a more intensive commitment but there is clearly
room to bring them together. Service is an organized period of substantial engagement and
contribution to the local, national, or world community, recognized and valued by society, with
minimal monetary compensation to the participant.

Scale

Indeed the scale of international volunteering for development provides an insight into its potential
importance though it has rarely been calculated. Such figures are also complicated by differing
definitions and durations but United Nations Volunteers estimated that volunteer development
workers “add up to about one-fifth of all skilled international personnel serving in developing
countries, but account for a higher (and growing) proportion of the long-term (i.e. more than one
year) resident group among such personnel” at the start of the 1990s

With the growing recognition of volunteer work in development and currently increasing
international aid budgets, it is an important time to reflect on the role of volunteering for
development to improve it, refine it, and consolidate its unique aspects so that it can be a
positive contributor towards deconceptualizing development.

As demonstrated around the world, volunteers have a unique and important role to play as active
participants in the development process. Indeed, volunteers, volunteers involving organizations, as
well as volunteer networks are important resources that need to be properly recognized as legitimate
development partners. For UNDP, harnessing the energies and creativity of millions of people
worldwide who want to make a distinctive contribution through volunteerism to development and
peace will be critical in the years ahead.

Our vision.

Our vision is of a world where people, regardless of cultural, social, and political divides, come
together for mutual benefit, living in peaceful co-existence. I conclude by stating that Volunteers can
be a useful form of technical assistance for development. They can fill genuine and important needs
in developing countries and provide a valuable and relatively inexpensive addition to other
technical assistance programs. They have in addition, a helpful effect on domestic public opinion
about developing countries and they are likely to promote international understanding. Success is
vested not just in the volunteer or the assignment, but the whole process; relationships between
partners and the volunteer cycle

Webmasters January 28, 2021 2 Comments

KNOW MORE ABOUT VOLUNTEERING UGANDA

Volunteering in Uganda is an NGO initiative aimed at reaching out to the various needs within the Ugandan society through volunteerism. The organization has the objective of availing an opportunity to everybody. That has a zeal for changing and transforming a society positively. Through the provision of a platform and hands-on involvement in the support process. Through its partnership with Love Uganda Foundation, Volunteering in Uganda intends to “make volunteerism a relevant, purposeful engine for democracy and sustainable communities today, and by so doing, create a vibrant purposeful society tomorrow.”

Also known as “Footprint Volunteer Uganda“, the organization has diverse programs. That is to say the elderly program, disabled program, HIV/AIDS program, Youth program. Childcare program, widows program, water, and sanitation program, healthcare human rights, and development program. All the above programs are catered for within the organization’s four major programs which are; The Community Development Program, The Healthcare program, The Education/teaching program, and The Childcare/Orphanage program. Each of these programs is specifically and carefully arranged. To cater to the needs of the different beneficiaries of the Organization.

The Community Development Program

believes that through training local farmers, helping the local women groups. Sensitizing women, and child advocacy, volunteers can be able to cause a rewarding impact on society. This program involves working alongside people within the local communities, engaging in developmental programs through education. Women`s empowerment, environmental monitoring, income-generating activities, health management, and mapping. The Women Empowerment program and the Youth Empowerment Program fall under the Community Development program.

Under the Women Empowerment Program,

Volunteering in Uganda notes, “If you want to change a culture, to empower women, to improve basic hygiene and healthcare, to fight high rates of infant mortality, the answer is to educate girls”.

It is for this reason that this volunteer program is steered. Towards the creation of better welfare and socio-economic development for women. From poor areas both within rural areas and Uganda`s capital city – Kampala.

Through many projects, for example, teaching the English language to young women, providing training on proper account keeping to women in small finance groups. Participating in, as well as initiating awareness-raising activities in various issues. Working with women in their farms, arranging activities to improve the self-confidence and educational development of women. Working with Love Uganda Foundation local staff to train women, etc. All the volunteer programs are aimed at ending discrimination against women in the most marginalized communities.

The Youth Empowerment Program

is geared towards supporting the youth, who demographically, make up 78% of Uganda`s population. Making it the youngest population worldwide. UNICEF defines youth as being between the ages 15-24years. Unfortunately, despite being the majority of the country being young and vibrant. Statistics show that the unemployment rate in Uganda is 83%, with 3.2% of Uganda Youth working for waged employment. 90.9% work for informal employment, and 5.8% are self-employed. It is thus Volunteering in Uganda`s desire to changes these statistics through availing opportunities for volunteers. To support the youth in Uganda by sharing success stories, the impartation of skills. Such as leadership to the youth, and where the need is, grant financial support to them. The youth are also encouraged to take part in community stimulating activities.

Under the Healthcare program,

Volunteering in Uganda aims to improve health in rural communities by educating and engaging people in health programs. Volunteers with a medical background and public health. Volunteers in this program are taken to some of the rural hospitals, clinics, communities, or orphanages. Where they provide checkups, basic medical care, early intervention services, family planning information, etc. Volunteering in Uganda understands that Health is a basic human right. And as a result, it put in place such programs to ensure that the vulnerable people in Uganda can access them.

Recognizing that the Right to Education is a fundamental human right,

Volunteering in Uganda seeks to make access to that right possible for as many children as it can reach. Through its Education/Teaching Volunteer program. Under this, volunteers work in government and public schools. Mainly teaching children aged between 4-16 years in English, Maths, Geography, Religious Education, Entrepreneurship, General Knowledge, and Physical Education. This particular field requires the volunteer to be compassionate and can care for and relate with children. Through fun and outgoing activities that can grab the interest of the children. And creative teaching methodologies with which they can easily learn. Volunteers under this program are required to work for 4-5 hours each day, for five days a week.

Childcare program

Finally, Volunteering in Uganda has a volunteer program set up to render support to the orphaned, poor and marginalized children of Uganda. Through its Childcare program. This program seeks to reach out to children who have not acquired parental support. That they need and have faced several challenges in life. Under this program, Volunteers can support and love orphans. Under the care of Love Uganda Orphanage which is based in Kalagi – Mukono. The orphanage is home to 30 vulnerable children aged between 3-15 years. Among those who are disabled children, those that were abandoned, and some of them living with HIV/AIDS. This Volunteer program also reaches out to 300 other children under the external child care program. Where the organization gives support to very poor single families. Within this program, volunteers can participate in the rescuing and restoration of hope to such vulnerable children.

Seeing as the world has partnered to create a positive and long-lasting impact globally through the UNDP’s Sustainable Development Goals. Volunteering in Uganda is actively playing her role, with emphasis on SDG No. 1-No poverty, SDG No. 3- Good health, SDG No.4- Education, and SDG No. 5- Gender equality. It is thus a call to action for all those with a passion for causing and participating in the creation of a world. That can support the existence of life today, as well as enable a fruitful life for future generations. Through either partnering with Volunteering in Uganda or giving to the cause.

Webmasters January 8, 2021 No Comments

FREE MEDICAL CAMPS_ASAVIOUR TO THE POOR AND SLUM DWELLERS

Free medical camps are medical care services that are taken directly to the grassroots population free of charge. And there are set up with the sacred aim of bringing awareness amongst the most deprived population of the country. Who has less access to basic medical services or knowledge about different diseases they suffer from?

So medical camps offer all services at no cost to these communities. Among such services include medicine distribution, medical advice, surgeries as well as making a referral to where it is required.

Rural and slum areas being prone to extreme poverty, there is a great need for NGOs and other stakeholders to fuel the need for offering free medical camps. With the agenda of saving lives at least once every 3 months. Or depending on how they please because a healthy body is a healthy mind.

Besides proving primary health care, the camps also contribute to raising awareness amongst the people informing them about the importance of adequate nutritious food, clean water, dangers and risks of environmental pollution as well as the vitality of family planning education and services.

Objectives of free medical camps

More so, the main objective of these camps is to bring affordable health care services to the community. And identify the common health problems to devise ways of addressing them. These camps ensure that people get healthcare at the right time. And see the doctors before the small problem gets out of hand.

Medical camps are conducted by professionals and they carry out a limited health intervention amongst the underprivileged communities. Getting the appropriate kind of health checkups is vital for every human being. And while considering it, some important factors like age, lifestyle, family background, and risks are taken into account.

Importance of free medical camps.

Health examinations and tests at an early stage of the sickness can help to cure it faster and save a life. Before it can cause any damage. People live longer and healthier only if their lives are taken important.

Medical camps are as well good in proving the poor population with an overall physical examination. Which includes eye checkups, HIV testing, assessment of the functioning of the vital organs. Like the lungs, kidney, liver digestive system, immunity, and heart. Such services are helpful for the poor people who earn a meager income. Regardless of their race or social status and cannot afford to go to hospitals that offer good services.

Teaching these communities and raising awareness of how best they can deal with and treat communicable and non-communicable diseases is one of the major roles of medical camps.

The medical personnel conducting these camps always act in the best interest of the patients. As they inform them the whole truth about the sickness. And the treatment that is required for it since healthcare is a basic human right that should be available for everyone. And shouldn’t be treated as a commodity for only those that can spend money to buy the service.

In slum areas.

When we say that free medical camps are important in slums areas. It’s because of the kind of life that they live in. Life in the slums is very hard to predict, they can never tell what tomorrow has in custody for them. They tend to face a lot of challenges among which poverty becomes a major one. Therefore it becomes very hard for them to even afford a test in the hospital. Once they fall sick hence resort to self-medication and this one it finds the worst situation. It escalates it putting them at the risk of losing their lives.

Because slums are among the least places that the government cares for. In most cases, they are considered criminals because of the nature of life they live in. In most cases, nonprofit organizations strive to take the services to them though it’s not enough. Therefore this qualifies them to get free medical camps.

A medical camp is solely serving humanity by taking care of sick children and adults. And giving them healthcare services for free. When the majority of hospitals and clinics close doors for the poor people, leaving them to die from conditions that could be managed. Trauma, and other health conditions, free medical camps step in as their biggest hope.

Even the poorest among us deserve the dignity of human rights which cannot be declined. They should not be underlooked because of their status; we are all one before God.

Webmasters November 12, 2020 No Comments

STRENGHT OF THE NATION – WHY YOU SHOULD EMPOWER YOUTHS IN UGANDA

Statistics show that Uganda has the world`s youth population with 78% of the population being below the age of 30. As of 2020, Uganda`s population is estimated to be at 45.7 million people, and 78%. Of this means 35.6 million people in Uganda are under the age of 30 years. For a humanitarian, that becomes the greatest resource that a country can ever have. Yet when misused, abused, or underused, that can significantly become the greatest threat to the development of any country.

Youth is the strength of a nation because they are the most energetic, most creative, when watered right; they can be the most fruitful. It is for this reason that they should be given the most attention and focus. Because they are the custodians of the future. The future state of affairs in any country be it political, social, or economic is 100% in their hands. So if they are denied the relevant information, and knowledge that they need to become productive, the future is at great risk of collapse.

EMPOWERMENT

Youths in Uganda

Empowerment has been defined as “the process of becoming stronger and more confident. Especially in controlling one`s life and claiming one`s rights”. This implies that empowerment is broad and it touches major aspects of a person`s life including but not limited to; social, mental, economic, political, spiritual, emotional, etc. Even though the youth make up the largest percentage of Uganda`s population.

Numbers of Youth in Uganda.

Sadly, the unemployment rate of the youth is still at 13.3%. Statistics show that 83.5% of the Ugandan population aged between 15-29 works in informal jobs. This means that most of them are not regulated or protected by the state in their work. As a result, they are more exposed to poor working conditions, exploitation by their employers. And in some cases, they become prone to illegalities such as human trafficking, all with the hopes of getting better employment opportunities overseas.

Youth, when misused and abused, can become the most dangerous threat eat to the development of any country. This is because if they are unemployed or underemployed they resolve to more drastic measures. Such as crime and illegal means of earning a living. When youth are excluded from the political scene of any country, out of frustration they can cause political unrest in the whole country. It is for this reason that a lot of focus should be put on empowering them and involving them in every aspect of the nation. They deserve to be heard, and they must be included in the problem-solving process of society.

Youth should be empowered because they are good executors of programs mainly because of their strength and vigor. It becomes very disappointing when the elders in a society exclude the youth. This is because they view them as a threat to their gain and benefit. The elders in society should take up the role of mentorship and mentor the youth and prepare them to take the wheel into the future. That way, we can be assured of continuity when it comes to development.

Youth empowerment

Youth empowerment should be adopted as a serious agenda through capacity building and training, mentorship, employment, and encouragement. They should be given a platform to take part in the leadership of any community and their human rights should be respected.

As a way of reducing the crime rates in any country, youth must be kept busy through engagement in productive work. In Uganda, agriculture has been known as the biggest employing sector. Youth should be incorporated into the different sectors in the country and they should continuously be included.

Youth empowerment should be taken seriously and more money should be allocated to do this. The education sector should be manipulated in such a way that it encourages creativity among the youth, to produce more job creators than job seekers. By so doing, they need to hire for expatriates will be reduced as more of our own will be employed in every sector of the economy.

It is also key to empower the youth because by so doing, the other resources of a country can be put to use by those who are affected by the problems and challenges in society. Those who have been pressed by the pangs of poverty can be able to tailor local solutions to the local problems and create employment opportunities that fit into their societies. This implements all problems easily because they are embraced by the local people in the community. And they can ensure that it works.

It is also, important to know that one does not need to be in a position of leadership or influence to empower youth. All that is needed is to have passion and you can do this through peer-to-peer influence.

Empower the youth, because they are the strength of any nation.

Webmasters November 2, 2020 120 Comments

TEACHING GOES BEYOND THE PROFESSION.

Teaching goes beyond the profession

A lot of attention has been put on education and not much on the educator or teacher. Education is both systematic and progressive and without education or learning, an individual is bound to become a public nuisance. Nelson Mandela once said that ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.’ And truly for the world to change, much more emphasis needs to be put on education and teaching.

For education to take place, there must be a teacher, and sometimes life is our teacher and other times it is individuals. We must learn that teaching goes beyond the profession. A teacher has been defined as a person who helps students to acquire knowledge, competence or virtue. So it`s not about the profession as much as it is about the person. It has been discovered that the first teacher any child has is his/her mother. Right from the womb, the fetus begins to pick signals from their mother and these signals are translated to affect their development. It’s the individuals that we meet on a daily that become teachers to us because from our various interactions with them, we learn to deal with many stresses and how to relate with people.

Teaching goes beyond the profession because, for a teacher to have a long-lasting impact, there must be passion, love, vision, a dream and the game-changer attitude within a person. A true teacher looks beyond what they will benefit from the service that they give and focus on what the learner has to gain. The beauty of it is that we don`t need to sit in classrooms for us to be teachers or learners because every day we meet potential teachers and students. It is our attitude towards them that determines what they will at the end of the interaction, walk away with.

Love and hatred, morality and ethics, good and bad, kindness and mercy; all these are not taught and learnt in a classroom. Some of these are learnt on the streets, others in market places and others from inconvenient places.

It means that we are all students and we are all teachers. We will always be teachers because it is our experiences that we teach and impart into others. Our interactions with others, the places we have been to and the events that take place in our lives make us teachers.

Some people choose to take up the teaching profession so that they can mentor, guide and impart skills into others as a way of changing them. Then some people are teachers at heart, and they go out of their way to make it possible for other people to become better. They source out for information that will empower others, and they look beyond the situations and limitations they might face and adopt better means of engaging their learners.

Many of these teachers fall under the informal education sector and they teach tremendously well. They teach soft skills, vocational skills, morals, ethics and values in society that group the emotional and psychological being of many individuals.

Now that you know that you are a teacher and the world is full of your students, you must build upon yourself and your interaction with the world. Become intentional about everything that you do because like it or not, the world is watching. And even though not everyone may care, there is a high probability that many people are picking the signals that you give off and these inform their world views. Be kind.

Sometimes we want to share our skills and are passionate about making an impact on hearts that are ready and willing to receive from us but we are limited by whom to contact. Look and believe, then you will see those grounds. And if it so happens that you are not a teacher by profession, find a community to volunteer. Talk to the local leaders in a particular region, let them know what your passion is and the motivation behind it and set it rolling.

If your passion stirs the desire to travel in order to do so, don`t hesitate, take a bus or a plane and travel to the grounds that will receive the seed you want to sow. We are sure that there are many people with a desire to learn but have limited access to teachers. These will gladly receive you with open hands.

You could visit Volunteering in Uganda and let us give you the opportunity to teach under our community Development Program . Be it a skill, a story, a song or any lesson that is valuable and relevant for the social, mental and spiritual development of the child and other community members; we will avail the learners to you.

We are all teachers because it is much more than the profession. So let`s teach and forever learn.

Webmasters October 13, 2020 33 Comments

VOLUNTEERING IN UGANDA AND ITS SURPRISING BENEFITS

Have you yet thought about enjoying and exploiting the enormous benefits of volunteering in Uganda through https://www.volunteeringinuganda.org/?

With most of us living super busy lives, the idea of volunteering in Uganda is giving your time and energy to a cause. Without payment may seem hard or even an impossible task to undertake.

However, volunteering in Uganda is of great benefit and doesn’t have to take up too much time. And the benefits of volunteering are vast for the volunteer rather not just the community, individual, or organization receiving their assistance.

Benefits of volunteering in Uganda

To start with, volunteering in Uganda enables volunteers to build on their self-confidence and esteem as they engage in activities that impact communities where they are placed hence giving them a sense of pride and identity.

Volunteering in Uganda is as well a great way to meet new people, especially if you are new to an area. It gets to strengthens your ties as a volunteer to the community and broadens your support network, exposing you to people with common interests, neighborhood resources, and fun and fulfilling activities.

Volunteering in Uganda brings about happiness to volunteers as they get to witness so many lives changing and restoring lost hope to people in different communities. Human beings are hard-wired to give to others. The more we give, the happier we feel.

Adding on the above.

Furthermore volunteering helps one stay physically healthy. Different studies have shown that those who volunteer have a lower mortality rate than those who do not. Older volunteers tend to walk more, find it easier to cope with everyday tasks, are less likely to develop high blood pressure, and have better-thinking skills. Without forgetting that volunteering can also lessen symptoms of chronic pain and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Additionally, volunteering in Uganda can also help one build upon skills they already possess and use them to benefit the different communities in Uganda. For instance, if one holds a successful sales position, he/she can raise awareness for his favorite cause as a volunteer advocate. While further developing and improving his public speaking, communication, and marketing skills.

Interestingly, volunteering has distinct health benefits that can boost mental and perhaps more surprisingly physical health. Indeed, a growing body of evidence suggests that people who give their time to others might benefit from lower blood pressure and a longer lifespan.

When it comes to volunteering in Uganda is important for mental health, the benefits are clear. It can help counteract the effects of stress, depression, and anxiety. Indeed, the social contact aspect of helping others can have a profound effect on your overall psychological well-being.

In an increasingly competitive job market, volunteering experience can be incredibly useful. It shows potential employers that you can take initiative and that you’re willing to give your own time. To improve the world for other people.

Furthermore, volunteering gives every individual an opportunity to practice important common skills. Used in the workplace, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, planning, and organization. Indeed, if you haven’t had a full-time job before then volunteering is an essential way to prove your skills. When you do go for work interviews.

By volunteering with an ongoing program, volunteers see growth and change. Whether working with children who are learning to read or adults who are developing trust with their peers. Volunteers can watch growth among their clients over time. This reinforces the volunteer’s sense of worthiness and vitality in the program.

Through volunteering, you can challenge yourself to try something different. Achieve personal goals, practice using your skills, and discover hidden talents.

Always bear in mind that nothing gets done by one person alone. Which means we have to band together to make the changes we want to see in the world. Volunteerism has indeed been the fuel to the fires of change both on international and local fronts. Volunteering in Uganda your time, skills, and resources is one of the most powerful ways to make a difference. To help others, and as it turns out, to enhance your wellbeing.

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