Where: G/F, Tai Wo Hau Estate Community Centre, 15 Tai Wo Hau Rd, Tsuen Wan What: Established in 1975 by a group of social workers, teachers and parents, the association provides recreational and educational activities for people with intellectual disabilities to help them enhance their self-confidence and social skills. How: Call 2428 6261 for more information. You can also apply online by filling in the registration form at lokchi.org.hk/aboutlokchi/volunteer.htm The association needs committed volunteers to help it run activities and hold community events. Volunteer: Kary Ling Sheung-kam, 24, has been working regularly as a volunteer for Lok Chi Association since August last year. 'Many people don't know how to get along with people who have intellectual disabilities, or they don't understand them. In fact, they like it when we show that we care for them, and this can be done by asking them about their daily life. They're very happy to talk. Some of them are very bright. They've taught me new songs while singing karaoke and also how to play video games. You must first respect them as adults. Only then will they open up to you. I share my happy and unhappy life experiences with them. They will let me know if they do not understand so that I can repeat what I've said. You should also set some behavioural guidelines for activities, because on the mental level, some of them are like children. Sometimes they will hug you or yell loudly when they feel excited or happy. You must then let them know that some intimate behaviour should be avoided and they must learn to control themselves in public. You cannot always treat them as children, as they have to learn how to deal with people appropriately. Patience is also very important. Sometimes they may not remember something that you've only taught them once, so you must keep reminding them. When I first started working at the centre, some of them couldn't remember my name and asked me who I was more than a dozen times a day. But I feel happy now, as some of them can recall my name instantly. It is also important to ask questions. They have different habits and if there are things you don't understand about them, you should ask their parents or social workers. Seeing them happy brings me great satisfaction and this makes me want to continue working for the association.'
