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Disney tickets for volunteers

The Agency for Volunteer Service (AVS) has teamed up with Hong Kong Disneyland for the first time to provide an opportunity for Hongkongers to lend a helping hand to the community.

'Give a Day. Get a Disney Day' is a voluntary programme which continues until December 31.

It has been divided into three categories - social service; environmental conservation; and creative art, culture and sport.

Anyone who is willing to spare eight hours to do voluntary work will receive a free, one-day ticket to Hong Kong Disneyland. 'Young people can benefit greatly from exposure to different sectors. Volunteering helps them to develop a sense of social responsibility,' said AVS chief executive officer, Flora Chung Woon-fan.

AVS is the only non-government organisation in Hong Kong which promotes volunteer services and has 40 years' experience in the field. It also offers volunteer referral programmes to corporate and community organisations.

So far, AVS has helped more than 30,000 people to receive training in volunteering and related skills.

'Volunteering is a good, inspirational learning process to learn to live life not just for yourself but also for others, and that's satisfying,' Chung said.

Being a volunteer requires skills just like anybody working for a company, she said.

'You need to learn about the objectives of the organisation that you are serving, how to communicate with others and sometimes specific skills depending on the group you are serving,' she added.

As for personal qualities, Chung thinks it is especially important for volunteers to treat people fairly, and respect individuality.

'You will come across people with a different living condition, physical appearance or ability. You need to understand that everyone has their pride. The fact that you help others doesn't make you superior. You are being helped when you offer help to others,' she said.

'The other important thing is a sense of responsibility. You must be punctual and do as you promise. Volunteering is a serious commitment.'

A total of 500 free Disney tickets have been reserved for Young Post readers who take part in the voluntary programme.

There will also be a video competition for registered Young Post readers, with exciting prizes - including a night's stay at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel - on offer.

To register, visit www.yp.scmp.com/giveandget

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