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Reaping the Benefits of Giving
Studies show that making a gift to a favourite organisation or charity not only helps those on the receiving end, but it also has a significant positive impact on the donor’s brain and body. Mr Somnath Adak, 38, shares what volunteering with Singapore Heart Foundation has done for him.
You have been a SHF volunteer since 2019. Can you share a memorable volunteering experience you have with us?
At SHF, my most memorable volunteering experience was at Woof-a-thon 2019. My job was to walk the Dog Mascot and interact with the participants and their dogs. What I enjoyed most was being able to make the participants smile by cracking a few jokes and capture their
candid pictures with the Dog Mascot. It was one of SHF’s marquee events before the COVID-19 pandemic, so participants would surely cherish those photographs for a long time to come.
What does volunteering mean to you?
I believe it is my responsibility to work and contribute for the benefit of the less-abled and vulnerable people of my society. This inculcates a kampong spirit that creates a resilient and progressive society.
I volunteer for and contribute to a number of charities in Singapore, helping those who may not be able to help themselves. The knowledge that I am able to give back to those in need empowers me. It gives me a greater sense of happiness, personal satisfaction and emotional strength.
How did COVID-19 disrupt your volunteering activities?
While I wanted to do more for SHF during the COVID-19 crisis, I realised that my personal resources would be limited. I thought of starting a fundraising campaign while I was attending the online “SHF Volunteer Appreciation Day” on 17 Oct 2020, which was also my 37th birthday.
My intention for my fundraising campaign is to promote heart health to everyone in my professional and social network, my family and loved ones in Singapore and worldwide. This is also my way of presenting a small gift to SHF for her 50th anniversary.
Why do you think giving is important?
When resourceful people step forward to donate to the less privileged, only then will the society grow. I believe that together, we can create a beautiful tomorrow for everyone.
Studies have shown that donating improves self-confidence and self-worth and promotes a feeling of happiness. It also improves the emotional wellbeing of the charity’s staff and volunteers who are tirelessly working for a cause. It’s a win-win situation for donors, charity and beneficiaries.
You can help make a change in someone’s life by donating to the Singapore Heart Foundation here.
