Company Day with a Purpose
It’s Thursday morning, and instead of a normal workday, I’m heading to a housing unit for people with mental illnesses who need support with everyday tasks. To be honest, as I set out, I don’t know exactly what’s expected of me, nor am I sure if I can truly help the residents or their staff. Luckily, I have my colleague Emilia in the same situation, and together we welcome the day with excitement.
Very soon, we’re greeted by a friendly staff member who gives us a brief introduction to the day. Our role is to engage with the residents, socialise with them, play games, and host a music event for everyone. This is something we can do!
Company Days (or "virkistyspäivä", as we say in Finnish) are typically about bonding with colleagues through fun activities like mini-golf or museum visits. At ResQ Club, however, we like to add more meaning to what we do. Thanks to our team's collective wishes, we’ve participated in various volunteering activities over the years.
The day flies by, leaving a lasting impression on me. A simple game or a friendly chat can make a real difference in someone’s week. It’s also a refreshing change for the housing unit staff. Each resident is free to participate in the activities as they wish, and we meet individuals who are open to engaging with strangers. Not everyone is eager to talk, and that’s respected and appreciated, too. Fortunately, my colleague Emilia used to be a karaoke host, and music proves to be a powerful way to connect when words fail.
Meanwhile, another group from our team attended an event organised by Kehitysvammatuki 57 ry at Biitsi Pasila in Helsinki. They created a unique experience for participants, filled with games and sensory activities like never before.
Why do we choose to volunteer year after year? Because, in the end, we gain the most from it. Stepping outside our comfort zones to make a difference in someone else’s life isn’t about instant gratification, it’s about the deep sense of fulfilment that comes from giving. Ultimately, it’s about learning from others whose everyday experiences differ from our own.
Many incredible non-profits and organisations are looking for dedicated volunteers to support their work. If you have the chance, reach out and make a difference. As a helper, you might just find yourself the most grateful of all.
