Who, if not us?
An action of Good Deeds Day, with a symbolic name, became a reminder that care is about actions.
The "Who, if not us" action, or when good deeds make the world purer and warmer.
On Good Deeds Day, volunteers of the Republican Volunteer Center came out onto the streets to help the elderly. The actions, with the symbolic meaning "Who, if not us," became a reminder that care isn't just talk; it's about significant actions.
In groups of 2-3 people, volunteers were heading to specific elderly participants of the project to help them make their front yard neater. All necessary materials - gloves, sacks, and tools - were prepared in advance in order for participants to concentrate on work.
We had a simple yet important goal - to help the elderly with something they physically struggle to do or simply can't do alone, to make the surroundings of their houses clean and neat, to give the feeling of support and belonging, and to create stronger trusting bonds between generations.
On this day, volunteers were getting rid of dead, dry grass, shaping bushes, picking up fallen branches, cleaning up the flower beds, and making yards neat again. However, as it usually is, the main value turned out to be not only the results but also time spent together. Many of the elderly admitted that the most important thing isn't only help but also attention, communication, and participation.
And for volunteers this action became an opportunity to not just work with their hands but to also feel the power of simple actions, which are capable of changing the mood, day, and even attitude towards life.
"Who, if not us" isn't just a motto; it's about responsibility, readiness to help others, respect toward the elderly, and belief in the power of good deeds. We are proud of the fact that there are youth near us that are ready to take this responsibility on themselves.