On December 5th, the world marks International Volunteer Day. It serves as a reminder that volunteering is more than an act of kindness – it is a quiet yet powerful movement that strengthens communities and helps build a future where everyone matters.
The Vilnius University (VU) community is large – more than 30,000 people work and study here. Naturally, among them are many colleagues and students who find time to contribute to meaningful initiatives. We spoke with several community members and asked them to share where they volunteer and what volunteering means to them.
Kristina from the GMC does not limit herself to one volunteering activity – she finds time for the National Defence Volunteer Forces, for initiatives supporting Ukraine, and for helping through blood donation or at sports events.
“I am a member of the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union. I volunteer by collecting donations and delivering them to Ukraine. I also join the ‘Vilniaus vorai’ group to weave camouflage nets. Sometimes the Blood Bank calls me – I go there and donate blood. I used to actively, now more rarely, work as a judge at bouldering (a type of climbing) competitions. So when someone tells me they don’t have time and asks ‘how do you manage all that?,’ I say it’s just a matter of priorities. Either you care, or you don’t.”
Kristina encourages those who haven’t yet found their way of volunteering:
“Right now, there’s a lot to do in the Riflemen’s Union, so I’m fully immersed there. ‘Vilniaus vorai’ are on the 4th floor of CUP. They work every weekday from 18:00 to 21:00, no registration needed. You just come, stand, and start weaving. Everyone there is very friendly, and everyone is welcome!”
Volunteering brings together different experiences and professions. Stephenas Jonesas from the GMC also shares his story:
“This year (as well as last year) I volunteered with Caritas – I prepared and served dinner for those in need and for the homeless on Thanksgiving Day. I believe that one of the best ways to practise gratitude is to share with others.”
Every hour spent helping someone strengthens us and reminds us that even small actions can inspire others. Aurelija from KRS describes her volunteering this way:
“I’ve been volunteering at ‘Child Line’ for four years now, and every time I come and go with the feeling that the time I spend listening to children has deep meaning. This is time that not only helps children endure difficult moments but also helps me grow. I’m often asked how I can listen to children’s stories – which are often heavy, painful, filled with loneliness and sadness – and not absorb it all myself. What helps me is a very clear understanding of my mission as a volunteer – to listen to the child… Sometimes it seems to me that we all know how to talk, but listening is so difficult for us. And for children calling ‘Child Line,’ the most important thing is to be heard at the moment they need it the most… I believe that volunteering is an opportunity to share your time, which is the most precious thing we have, and at the same time an opportunity to become more open and empathetic.”
We remind you that help is especially important right now. The spiritual care team invites you to volunteer or contribute donations for those in need of warmth, food, or medical assistance – donations are accepted in the sacristy of St. John’s Church.
Animal welfare organisations also often face a shortage of volunteers before the winter holidays – many people travel to visit their families, so extra help is needed to walk the animals or carry out other daily tasks. Every small act of involvement becomes real help to those waiting for it.
In the VU community, volunteering means real people and their stories. These are choices that inspire and strengthen not only those who are helped but also the volunteers themselves.
Article by Sonata Kuncė