The beginning of a never ending journey

Harish K. Shaw, an engineering student from Kolkata, has been associated with iVolunteer, Kolkata since last 3 years. Over these years he has taken up various roles such as content writer, brochure designer, teacher, PR and event manager. Here he talks about his volunteering journey with iVolunteer so far…

Hi, I’m Harish Shaw, an engineering student. No, let me say it again… Hi, I’m Harish Shaw, a motivated volunteer!

My decision to volunteer with iVolunteer drew from an impulse which pressed me to spend my semester break in a meaningful way and contribute my bit to the society.  Now, looking back that I’ve spent so far, I consider this period to be one of the best chapters in my life; and not a single day was tiring. My journey so far has been filled with fulfillment and cherished memories to carry through life.

In the course of my volunteering, I was exposed to the functioning of various organisations as well as senior volunteers already associated with iVolunteer. I visited an old age home along with other equally enthusiastic volunteers and I felt the work which these people have been doing was not only simple but extraordinary. Among the many initiatives, carried out by iVolunteer such as meeting the aged, thanking the police, teaching the blind, nurturing the development of underprivileged children, my favorite is the open air orientations, were we motivate new volunteers.

I had the wonderful experience of being the volunteer. I realised how volunteering has helped me improve my communication skills. I interacted with all our ex-volunteers and came to know a lot about previous activities. I felt a lot of pride and a deep sense of motivation. It has been a pleasure to work with Tanveer, Relationship Manager at iVolunteer, Kolkata, who amazes me by his strong commitment and motivation. Throughout my volunteering journey, I’ve always had a sense of working with him and never under him.

I have thoroughly enjoyed being involved in all the activities and firmly believe that this is only the beginning of what I hope will be my never ending journey.

I would like to sign off with two of my favourite quotes:

“It’s not about what you get but what you get to give”  AND “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they have the heart.”     

-Harish K. Shaw