You don’t need the perfect moment to volunteer. You don’t need special skills or big speeches. You just need to show up. And when you do, real conversations happen, small moments of connection, and the kind of experiences that stay with you long after the day is over.
This year, staff from the Institute for Youth Development KULT once again took part in corporate volunteering activities, giving their time and energy to organisations working with older people, people with developmental disabilities, and families facing difficult circumstances.
Volunteering took place at the Healthy Ageing Centres in Novo Sarajevo and Ilidža, the Merhamet public kitchen in Sarajevo, the association Dajte nam šansu, the “Denis” Day Centre in Grbavica, Pomozi.ba, and a supported housing unit for three young women in Vogošća.
At the Healthy Ageing Centre in Novo Sarajevo, staff helped out at the “Sustainable Bazaar”, receiving and sorting donations, packing items, and pitching in wherever needed. They described the experience as especially positive thanks to the welcoming atmosphere and the strong sense of teamwork among volunteers and staff.
Others volunteered at the Healthy Ageing Centre in Ilidža, where they made waffles for pensioners and discussed everyday interests, daily routines, young people, intergenerational relationships, and changes in society.
Afterwards, staff reflected on how essential these centres are. For some users, they are the only opportunity for social interaction, a reason to leave the house, stay active, and feel connected to the community.
Part of the team volunteered with the association Dajte nam šansu, which supports families of children and people with developmental disabilities. They returned with strong impressions. “Volunteering doesn’t bring a pay bonus, but it nourishes the soul,” they shared. “That’s why the number of days spent volunteering matters less than what stays with you afterwards. Sometimes it’s tears you try to hide, sometimes it’s laughter and new friendships, and sometimes it’s simply a deeper awareness you carry with you,” they said.
They spoke about being greeted with a hug by Luka, a boy who loves singing and dancing and instantly makes everyone feel like a friend. They met Arnes, who was attending physical therapy and confidently recited a monologue from the iconic Death and the Dervish. Arnes also writes poetry about his mom, who welcomed them with coffee and a warmth that filled the room.
They realised that while they came to help others, they left feeling that Luka, Arnes, and their family had given them far more through conversation, warmth, and quiet strength. Volunteering isn’t an obligation but a simple life lesson: give a little, gain so much, and become a better version of yourself.
The team that volunteered at the Pomozi.ba association described it as one of their most meaningful experiences. They spent time sorting and organising donated clothing and shoes, and every moment of that work reminded them how much even small acts of service can matter to people in need.
“While volunteering, we met dedicated people who come in every day to carefully sort everything that arrives. Their commitment and desire to help others were inspiring and motivated us to contribute ourselves. This experience reminded us how powerful collective solidarity and volunteering can be, and how important it is to actively take part in initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives,” they said.
Corporate volunteering plays a key role in strengthening social responsibility within institutions and companies. It allows employees to dedicate their time to the community while also building teamwork, collaboration, and a positive workplace culture. Volunteering brings many benefits – from developing personal skills to fostering a sense of satisfaction and purpose through contributing to the community.
The experiences of staff at the Institute for Youth Development KULT show that volunteering isn’t just about helping others. It’s also an opportunity to grow as a person, appreciate the small things, and develop a deeper understanding and empathy for people of all ages.
