Caritas India is joyfully celebrating Volunteers Day, an occasion that began on December 5th and will continue throughout the month of December. This special observance highlights the invaluable contributions of volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time, skills, and energy to bring about meaningful change in communities. Volunteers are the backbone of Caritas India’s mission, playing a pivotal role in implementing programs, addressing social challenges, and reaching the most marginalized. Through this celebration, Caritas India not only expresses gratitude to its volunteers but also actively promotes the spirit of volunteerism, encouraging more individuals to join hands in creating a just and compassionate society. By celebrating Volunteers Day, Caritas India reaffirms its commitment to empowering volunteers as catalysts for transformation and fostering a culture of service and solidarity across the nation.

As part of this month-long celebration, a Volunteers Day observation program was organized in Kerala on December 13, 2024, as part of the Sajeevam Anti-Drug Campaign. This vibrant event, held in collaboration with Shreyas, Bathery, showcased the transformative power of volunteerism. The program commenced with a spirited public rally, which brought together over 100 volunteers. Carrying placards promoting volunteerism and advocating for a drug-free life, the volunteers marched through the streets, reciting slogans that resonated with the community. The rally was flagged off by Radha Raveendhran, Division Councillor, Bathery, who lauded the volunteers for their dedication and commitment.

Following the rally, youth volunteers captivated the audience with a thought-provoking flash mob, creatively portraying the significance of volunteerism and the urgent need for a drug-free society. This performance set the tone for a day filled with inspiration and engagement.

A signature campaign was inaugurated by Fr. Jacob Mavunkal, Executive Director of the Kerala Social Service Forum, symbolizing a collective commitment to a drug-free lifestyle. Volunteers eagerly participated, leaving their signatures as a pledge to uphold the values of the Sajeevam Anti-Drug Campaign. The program also included an orientation and capacity-building session led by Dr. V.R. Haridas, Thematic Lead for Climate Justice at Caritas India. This session enriched the volunteers’ understanding of their roles and equipped them with tools to amplify their impact.

A heartwarming experience-sharing session followed, where volunteers expressed their joy and fulfillment in being part of Caritas India. Ms. Lilly, a dedicated volunteer, shared how her efforts brought positive changes to others’ lives and deeply enriched her own. She reflected:
“Being a Caritas volunteer with the Ashakiranam and Sajeevam campaigns has been a joyful journey of touching lives and making a difference. Each opportunity to serve has not only brought positive change to others but has also helped me shape my own life for the better.”

This segment underscored the profound personal and communal growth that stems from volunteerism.

The event culminated in a formal public meeting, where the Volunteers Day program was officially inaugurated by Shri I.C. Balakrishnan, MLA, and presided over by Bishop Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas, Vice President of the CBCI and Bishop of the Bathery Diocese. In his inaugural address, Shri Balakrishnan commended the remarkable contributions of Caritas India and Shreyas volunteers, particularly during recent disasters in Wayanad.

In his presidential address, Bishop Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas emphasized the critical role of volunteers in the success of community programs and highlighted the importance of capacity-building initiatives to sustain their enthusiasm:
“Volunteers are the cornerstone of community building, their dedication shaping lives and fostering unity. To sustain their invaluable contributions, we must invest in their growth through capacity-building initiatives, ensuring they remain empowered to serve, even beyond retirement.”

The program concluded with a cultural celebration that showcased the talents and creativity of the volunteers, adding a joyful and festive touch to the day.

Another Volunteers Day observation program was held on December 10, 2024, at Ozarli village in Kalyan Block as part of Project Jeevan III. The event saw active participation from 60 dedicated women volunteers representing various villages. These women shared their inspiring experiences as volunteers and reaffirmed their commitment to contributing to the betterment of society.

Over the course of the project, the women volunteers have made significant contributions to various activities and events, helping their communities address challenges and find effective solutions. Esteemed guests from the Gram Panchayat, including the Sarpanch and PRI members from Raya-Ozarli villages, attended the event, providing encouragement and support to the volunteers.

The program offered a platform for each volunteer to share their journey, building their confidence and reinforcing their sense of purpose. Mrs. Anjana Uttam Waghe, a volunteer from Ozarli village, expressed her gratitude for the consistent support from the Jeevan project staff:
“The Jeevan project staff regularly visit our village and guide us on various problem-solving methods, encouraging us to always stand for our community. It feels great to know that we are contributing to a good cause and the betterment of our community.”

The program marked a first of its kind in Ozarli village and received an overwhelmingly positive response. Many women eagerly took the opportunity to speak, demonstrating their growing confidence and enthusiasm.

The event also highlighted the transformative impact of Project Jeevan III in empowering rural communities. Pinki Sitaram Pawar, a volunteer from Guravli village, remarked:
“The Jeevan Project is a commendable initiative for improving the lives of rural communities. Through such projects, communities learn to fight for their rights, and we find inspiration to contribute more to the development of society.”

The Volunteers Day observation programs organized by Caritas India across various locations were a resounding success, showcasing the dedication and spirit of countless volunteers. Each initiative underscored the importance of volunteerism in addressing critical issues and fostering resilience. Caritas India remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering volunteers, recognizing their contributions, and nurturing a culture of service that continues to inspire and build stronger, more compassionate communities.