“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” is a quote by renowned social activist Mahatma Gandhi. To be of service to others is an inspiring and noble cause as it helps millions of people in need. In the Philippines, we have seen the heart of countless Filipinos through community pantries and donation drives whenever disaster struck our lands. Through volunteering, the youth can inspire others to change society for the better one step at a time.

In line with May being proclaimed as Volunteerism Month, here are 5 organizations the youth can volunteer at:

1. BiyayaNiJuan

BiyayaNiJuan is a youth-led non-profit organization that aspires to help Filipinos through the collaborative work of youth volunteers. The organization is focused on advocacy-based projects and programs related to education, donation drive, and volunteering. Its projects include tuition assistance and volunteering training activities for the youth. Despite the lockdown keeping most of the youth at home, volunteers can still help in making education content posted online. If interested, one can go to their Facebook page, fill up the registration form and attend an interview after.

2. Streets to Schools

Streets to Schools is a youth organization that bridges children and youth in street situations by amplifying the Global Goals for Sustainable Development and UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. It has received plenty of awards including United Nations Population Fund Kabayani Challenge Fund Winner and Outstanding GYS Alumni Safe Space Heroes. The organization also does plenty of webinars to inform the public of their various advocacies. Currently, volunteers can join their online storytelling volunteer program that started this month of May. Those who are interested can visit their Facebook page to sign up and apply.

3. LoveYourself Inc.

LoveYourself Inc. is an organization that has risen to become one of the leading organizations in HIV awareness, testing and treatment in the Philippines. The organization was inspired by the increasing curiosities by the Youth & LGBT+ through social media about STI, HIV, sexuality and gender. Founded by Dr. Ronivin Garcia Pagtakhan, LoveYourself assists 50,000 people yearly through their 7 clinics in the Metro. The non-profit organization is mostly powered by 1800 volunteers that run day to day operations and handle various events. To sign up, volunteers will need to undergo an interview and orientation once passed.

4. Rise Above Foundation Cebu

For those outside of Luzon, Rise Above Foundation Cebu is a volunteer program that started in 2000 and has continuously strived to help improve the quality of life of the underprivileged by providing access to education, livelihood, and healthcare programs. Some 8,350 children and communities are helped by the organization each year. Volunteer programs include tutoring kids and facilitating various activities. To volunteer contact Adi, the Center Head at the Rise Above Community Center at (032)255-7990 or (0943)825-3638.

5. Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)

PAWS is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and promoting humane treatment of all animals. PAWS actively campaigns against animal cruelty and pet neglect by educating the masses concerning animal welfare and care. Volunteers can take care of over 300 animals through dog walking to kennel cleaning. There is no time required for volunteer hours but those who render at least eight hours a month will be included in special activities and programs. If interested, volunteers should submit an application form and go through an orientation before starting. Those who want to work in Directi Animal Care should have pre-exposure rabies shots.

These organizations pride themselves on serving communities so the youth should find volunteering easier and more accessible. Volunteering encourages others to be more aware and socially responsible of the world they live in. There is no time to waste, as every helping hand can empower so many lives today.