Volunteer

Today is my first day volunteering at riding for the disabled.

When it first get introduced a few years ago, i wanted to sign up. The programme do not need long time commitment (only 10 weeks with rotations), get to do some voluntary work plus i really like horses so the programme is very attractive.

However, i only sign up for the programme now. Main reason being, previously we have to arrange the rotation and make sure at least 2 person from the team turn up each week. It won't be a problem if everyone stick to the schedule that was planned. But there is always some big shots who thinks they are busier, their time is more precious and will always change their schedule esp last min. This is such a nuisance. People who are sincere in doing volunteering should not even be reminded. If they cannot stick to the timing they should not even volunteer and create more inconvenience. By not volunteering they are already helping. I do not want to be upset over such things when i am actually doing something good. It just makes the whole experience a nightmare rather than a pleasant one.

Well, this time my team is all in the same department as me. Coordination is much simpler and less of a headache. At least i know i will have a great time.

I was assigned to 2 autistic children. As most volunteers are Caucasians, being the minority Chinese there, the children seems to cling to me more. They are all very well-behaved and really enjoyed the horse-riding. Frankly, it is quite tiring. I cannot remember how many times i walk round the arena. It was quite a good 2 hrs workout. Cannot imagine in the next few lesson the horses will have to start trotting and we have to run together with it to ensure the safety of the children. Hopefully, i will have stamina to catch up.

Cannot wait till the next rotation to see the children and the horses.