Over the years, as unemployment reaches an all-time high in Zimbabwe, it has become a burden to control some youngsters who spend their days idle with little to nothing tangible to do to while up time. Some parents in some communities are now having a very hard time trying to stop those youngsters from illegal activities like prosti_tution and abusing drugs. Others are also having a hard time trying to rehabilitate their drug-abusing children and its a whole mess.
Simply because there is nothing to do that will change these youngsters’ lives economically doesn’t mean, as communities we must then totally discard the idea that they can actually volunteer and make good use of their time.
A volunteer according to the Cambridge Dictionary is by definition:
a person who does something, especially helping other people, willingly and without being forced or paid to do it
These are some of the benefits of volunteering:
- Make good use of your spare time
- Learn new skills
- You connect with the community
- Feel a sense of purpose
- You improve your mental and physical health
Here are 7 volunteer opportunities in Harare along with the names of places and causes you could consider:
1. Harare Children’s Home: Volunteer to spend time with and support children in need of care and attention.
2. Environmental Management Agency (EMA): Get involved in environmental conservation efforts and community clean-up projects.
3. SPCA Harare: Volunteer at the animal shelter to help care for and find homes for rescued animals.
4. City of Harare Public Library: Assist with literacy programs and activities to promote reading and education in the community.
5. Harare Central Hospital: Volunteer at the hospital to support healthcare professionals and provide comfort to patients.
6. Kuwadzana Extension Community Children’s Garden: Join a community garden project to help grow fresh produce for local residents and promote sustainable agriculture.
7. Zunde Food Bank: Volunteer at a food distribution centre to help provide meals for those facing food insecurity in the community.
These opportunities offer a chance to make a positive impact in Harare across various causes. Thank you for considering volunteering your time and skills to help others!