From Passion to Purpose: Wendy Chan’s Inspiring Volunteer Adventure
From a middle school student volunteering to kill time to a first-year college student shouldering more responsibility in serving the community, Wendy Chan’s seven-year involvement in the HKFYG has deepened her understanding of the power of volunteerism.
Starting as a Youth Ambassador primarily based in Tuen Mun, Wendy’s passion for volunteering grew as she became a media volunteer and helped with event photography. However, her desire to make a broader impact led her to join the HKFYG’s Neighbourhood First volunteer team. Here, she focuses on assisting the elderly by providing essential winter items like quilts and warm clothing. One by one, Wendy calls them to understand their specific needs, hoping to bring comfort during the cold weather.
Wendy shares, 「Sometimes, the elderly miss our calls because they aren’t accustomed to using cell phones regularly. However, once they realise it’s the HKFYG volunteers reaching out, they are always pleasantly surprised and grateful for our care and concern.」
Witnessing the struggles faced by the elderly, Wendy empathises deeply and is driven to make a difference. She understands that even small actions can bring warmth and comfort to their lives.
One impactful experience for Wendy was volunteering for the distribution of leftover food. She vividly recalls an elderly man who showed her his expensive medical bill, expressing gratitude for the invaluable supplies he received. This encounter reaffirmed the meaningfulness of her work and further fueled her commitment to making a positive impact.
While Wendy acknowledges the limitations of short-term volunteer services in creating lasting change, she remains motivated to continue her efforts. She encourages others to join her in this noble cause and plans to volunteer to mentor young students, understanding the challenges they face during their formative years. Wendy’s own family, including her younger sister, actively participates in volunteer work, inspiring her to continue making a difference.
Reflecting on the significance of volunteering, Wendy beautifully summarises its essence in today’s society, saying, 「In a time where personal gain and monetary benefits dominate conversations, volunteering stands out as a selfless act of dedicating our time to improve our community. We are ordinary people helping other ordinary people, seeking nothing more than a simple 『thank you』 in return. That’s what keeps us going.」
Wendy’s volunteer journey exemplifies the power of compassion and the profound impact one person can have on the lives of others. Her story serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that through selfless dedication, we can truly make our communities better places for everyone.
Join us in celebrating Wendy’s remarkable journey and let’s continue to make a difference together! Check out the latest volunteer opportunities in the HKFYG here: easyvolunteer.hk