ESG News

Volunteer / Ricky Hung

This was my second time participating in a volunteer activity organized by the Novatek foundation for visually impaired students. This time, I joined the “Cultural and Farm-to-Table Hands-on Experience in Tongluo, Miaoli”, accompanying the students as they explored local culture, agriculture, and hands-on activities.

The morning activities included exploring a vegetable garden and woodland area, as well as making herbal relaxation balls. While walking through the garden, we needed to pay close attention to the path ahead and remind the children of steps, stairs, and slopes, while guiding them safely along the way. Although these may seem like simple reminders, they helped the children feel more secure and confident as they explored their surroundings.

While making the herbal balls, I was surprised by how skillful and strong the children’s hands were. They were able to shape the herbs into beautifully rounded balls, and some even did a better job than the adults! Completing the handmade pieces together gave us a wonderful sense of accomplishment.

The most memorable activity for me in the afternoon was ceramic painting. Since I am a big fan of McDonald’s French fries, I chose a ceramic piece shaped like a large box of fries and brought it back to our table. To my surprise, the student I was accompanying became very excited when she saw it because she loves French fries too! We painted the ceramic piece together, and she took it home to share with her mother. Seeing her holding our finished creation with such a big smile made all the effort throughout the day worthwhile.

Every time I participate in volunteer service, the children remind me of the resilience of life. The optimism and courage they demonstrate in facing everyday challenges also encourage me to reflect on the difficulties I encounter in my own work and life. Perhaps some of the obstacles we face are not as daunting as they may initially seem. I have also come to realize that even a little companionship and support can make a meaningful difference in someone else’s life. At the same time, volunteering gives me a renewed sense of purpose and becomes another source of motivation for facing challenges in both work and life.

I still remember my first volunteer experience, when I saw how devoted Teacher Lee from Huei-Ming School for the Blind was to caring for every child. The genuine care and dedication shown to each student touched me deeply, and that feeling has stayed with me ever since.

I hope to have more opportunities to participate in volunteer activities in the future, continuing to pass on this spirit of warmth, care, and companionship.