Volunteer work: a cornerstone of sustainable development and social cohesion
In the modern era, volunteer work is no longer merely individual initiatives or an emotional response to emergencies. It has transformed into organized, institutionalized work that represents one of the most important pillars of sustainable development in advanced societies. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the volunteer sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, aligned with the goals of Vision 2030, which aspires to reach one million volunteers. This reflects a radical shift in the concept of giving, moving from traditional practices to effective contributions to the GDP and an improved quality of life.
In this context, a group of experts confirmed to Al-Youm that volunteer work has become a strategic tool for strengthening social cohesion and creating a cohesive environment capable of facing challenges. They pointed out that volunteering opens up broad horizons for individuals and institutions to present impactful initiatives that leave a tangible difference and reinforce the values of shared national responsibility.
Building leadership capabilities and skills
Volunteerism expert Mubarak bin Awad Al-Dossari explained that the positive impact of volunteering extends beyond the service provided to include the development of the volunteer's own character. Al-Dossari stated that engaging in volunteer work equips individuals with vital skills such as leadership, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving abilities. These skills not only contribute to personal development but also enhance their job prospects. He emphasized that the success of initiatives depends on sound planning and effective partnerships to ensure the sustainability of their impact.
Supporting national development goals
For her part, Dr. Areej Ali Ba'ashan, supervisor of the Volunteer and Social Responsibility Department at Jeddah University, highlighted the complementary role of volunteering and education. She emphasized that volunteer work strengthens national belonging and motivates young people to actively participate. She added that educational and service institutions benefit from the energy of volunteers in implementing initiatives that support national development goals, while volunteers gain practical experience in communication and creative thinking, bridging the gap between theoretical education and professional reality.
Addressing social issues in depth
In a related context, Ghanem Abdullah Al Ghanem, the scouting supervisor in Riyadh Education, highlighted the social dimension of volunteering, emphasizing its fundamental role in addressing societal issues. He pointed out that integrating individual efforts with those of official institutions yields sustainable solutions to social problems. He added that volunteering teaches young people negotiation skills and the ability to work under pressure, and cultivates their sense of humanity. He recommended adopting a culture of specialization in volunteering to ensure the quality of its outcomes.
Strengthening trust and shared responsibility
Social worker Saleh Hleil concluded by emphasizing that volunteer work is a "safety valve" for society, contributing to strengthening social bonds and building mutual trust. He explained that successful volunteer initiatives are those built on clear objectives and precise impact measurement, transforming the effort into a lasting societal value. He noted that societies that celebrate giving back are best equipped to create a balanced and prosperous future.
