Introduction
In the bustling campus of MIT Bengaluru, the National Service Scheme (NSS) stands as a beacon of community engagement and social responsibility. I, SARTHAK JARYAL, the head of the NSS Unit for 2023-24 want to share my experience on the Old Age Home Visit that we planned. During my tenure as the head of the NSS unit, one of the most impactful experiences we undertook was our visit to the local old age home on 19th September, 2023. This endeavour was not just about checking a box on our community service checklist; it was about creating connections, fostering empathy, and making a meaningful impact.
Background
In the bustling campus of MIT Bengaluru, the National Service Scheme (NSS) stands as a beacon of community engagement and social responsibility. I, SARTHAK JARYAL, the head of the NSS Unit for 2023-24 want to share my experience on the Old Age Home Visit that we planned. During my tenure as the head of the NSS unit, one of the most impactful experiences we undertook was our visit to the local old age home on 19th September, 2023. This endeavour was not just about checking a box on our community service checklist; it was about creating connections, fostering empathy, and making a meaningful impact.
Planning and Preparation
Organizing the visit required meticulous planning. Coordinating with the old age home, mobilizing volunteers, and ensuring we were equipped to provide support were crucial steps. Our team understood the importance of approaching the visit with sensitivity and respect, recognizing that each resident had a unique story to tell. I along with my team-mates(T Pranav and Harsh) coordinated with “Little Sisters of the Poor” , a local old age home, and told them about our visit. They were happy to welcome us. My Team was glad to visit the old age home and were excited to interact with the people. A team of 30 members were ready to visit the place.
The Visit
As we stepped into the old age home, a myriad of emotions enveloped us. The warmth of the staff and the curiosity of the residents created an atmosphere that was both humbling and inspiring. Sister Josephine, the caretaker of the old age home, welcomed us and told about the history of the old age home. Our planned activities, ranging from interactive games to storytelling sessions, aimed not only to entertain but also to forge connections between the generations. Our Team also donated by providing them basic food rations.
Impact on the Residents
The impact on the residents was palpable. The people were very happy seeing us and they took part in our activities. They shared a lot of stories that not only entertained us but also motivated us to become a successful individual. Loneliness was replaced with laughter, and the stories shared illuminated the rich tapestry of their lives. For many, our visit became a highlight, a moment of joy amid the routine of their daily lives. The bonds formed during those few hours were a testament to the power of human connection.
Team Motivation
Witnessing the positive effect our visit had on the elderly motivated our NSS team profoundly. The experience went beyond fulfilling volunteer hours; it ignited a sense of purpose and a realization that small acts of kindness could ripple into significant positive change. The bonds formed during the visit strengthened our team, fostering a spirit of unity and compassion. My Team was happy on our visit and felt motivated after listening to the people living there.
Reflection
Personally, the visit to the old age home was a transformative experience. It taught me the importance of empathy and reinforced the belief that service is not just about giving; it's about receiving and learning from the stories and experiences of others. It left an indelible mark on my leadership journey and shaped my understanding of the role NSS plays in shaping compassionate individuals.
Conclusion
Our visit to the old age home was more than a community service initiative; it was a bridge between generations, a reminder that regardless of age, each individual holds a wealth of experiences and wisdom. I am confident that the spirit of compassion and service of NSS Unit will continue to thrive, creating a positive impact not only within the campus but in the broader community.
Call to Action:
To the readers, I urge you to seek out opportunities for community engagement. Whether big or small, each act of service has the power to create lasting change. Consider volunteering at a local elderly care facility or exploring other avenues where you can make a difference. Together, we can build a community that values and nurtures the well-being of every individual. We all are Leaders and Life gives us a lot of opportunities to prove ourselves.
Acknowledgements:
I extend my gratitude to the NSS team, the staff at the old age home, and everyone who contributed to the success of this initiative. Your dedication and compassion have made a lasting impact on the lives of those we served.