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SCMP Reporter

A twice-monthly column about learning on the job

IF YOU HAVE a few hours to spare every week, you may want to help an organisation that offers hands-on care to sick children.

One of 245 Ronald McDonald Houses worldwide, Hong Kong's Ronald McDonald House helps families whose children are in hospital with serious and long-term illnesses by offering them a temporary home close to the hospital and emotional support.

'The house allows families to maintain their original lifestyle and to care for their sick children,' said Iris Wong, assistant manager at Ronald McDonald House.

'Through support and encouragement [from] people facing the same difficulties, families can be relieved of some of their fears and worries.'

Since the house is largely supported by donations and operated by only five full-time staff,  volunteers are welcome.

Voluntary duties range from  providing administrative help, answering the telephone and basic computer work, to light housekeeping, tutoring and playing with sick children during two-hour weekly shifts for a minimum of three months.

Volunteers can also help with preparing group meals, gardening or spring cleaning, sponsoring and planning activities such as magic shows, or fund-raising with the home's manager and committee.

Volunteers are matched with a sick child and their family to provide regular visits and phone calls.

'Our in-house volunteers have the most interaction with the families, providing a listening ear and sharing a common bond of love for the house and the families,' Ms Wong said.

In addition to being offered a slew of volunteer service awards and certificates,   not to mention an annual appreciation party, volunteers are rewarded by being given an opportunity to experience personal growth.

According to Ms Wong, helping out at Ronald McDonald House teaches young people how to serve those in need in the community and to learn selflessness. 'They learn to give, love and [show] concern to the people in need through volunteering,' she said.

She warned, however,  that they do not want people who volunteer simply to achieve a certificate.

NAME: Ronald McDonald House

MISSION: To provide a temporary home for sick children and their families

WHERE? To Shek Village, Sha Tin

TIME REQUIRED: Two hours a week plus

HOW MANY PLACES? Varies

DO I HAVE TO PAY? No - in fact, you'll be rewarded

HOW CAN I APPLY? Tel: 2947 8778 or e-mail iris@rmh.org.hk



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