On October 30, the University Abat Oliba CEU (UAO) in Barcelona held its volunteering fair in conclusion of Mission Month in Catholic Church. During this day of solidarity, non-profit organisations mobilise students to serve socially isolated communities together. Attendees explored a wide range of volunteering roles, from supporting cancer patients to helping flood victims. “We want students to see that they can make a difference right here, right now.”
The main hall of the university is full of purpose as adolescents roam around, eager to learn about ways they can make a difference. Enthusiastic representatives from various non-profit organisations fill the booths and share stories on how to impact their goals. Paloma Llado Garcia-lomas, Coordinator of Volunteering at the San Pablo CEU Foundation, strides between the several stands to acknowledge each organisation but also to encourage students to participate in these activities. “Volunteering allows us to practice humility and kindness, reminding us that we’re all part of one human family. As Catholics, our faith calls us to love our neighbour, and this event is an expression of that love in action.” By providing these opportunities, the CEU Foundation hopes to broaden their students’ personal interests and ambitions.
¿Hacer un #voluntariadosocial? ¡Es mucho más de lo que te imaginas!
Entra en la web de la #Universitat y encuentra el que más se adapte a tus gustos y disponibilidad. ¡Vive esta experiencia extraordinaria!🌏 pic.twitter.com/wuT0QHrOtq— UAO CEU (@UAOCEU) October 30, 2024
A Christian perspective
Christian volunteering has deep roots in faith-based service, from the early church’s emphasis on caring for the vulnerable in solidarity to today’s global networks of Christian charities. “Figures like the good Samaritan, St. Francis of Assisi and Mother Theresa set the foundation for the Christian volunteer tradition, inspired through teachings of compassion and modesty”, explains Paloma. Today, Christianity influences different organisations to continue this legacy, serving with a holistic approach that combines practical aid with spiritual care.
Through partnerships with local non-profits, the university provides a platform for these organisations to express the value of solidarity. This way, students learn the challenges their communities face and find organisations that align with their personal interests. However, international student Karolina Kwiecień points out that volunteering does not have to be religiously motivated: “I was not raised Catholic, so I am not here out of religious reasons. But I do think it’s important to help people out of your own humanity.”
Psyché at the volunteering fair
One of the standout organisations at the volunteering fair is Psyché. Their team focuses on supporting children’s mental and physical health, ensuring they feel strong both inside and out. With programs like homework assistance, recreational activities, and emotional support, Psyché aims to provide a balanced approach to children’s development, addressing both academic needs and personal well-being. Gloria Morello, a representative of Psyché, shares their mission: “We want children to feel confident and joyful, not only growing academically but thriving mentally and emotionally, while also having fun.” Although Gloria and her colleagues attract the attendees with homemade cupcakes, most of them are solely interested in the work of Psyché. “Knowing they focus on both the mental and physical sides of children’s well-being really resonated with me”, shares Karolina. “It’s inspiring to see an organisation that treasures both growth and happiness for kids.”
Looking forward
As UAO looks to the future, it aims to make volunteering an even more integral part of student life, encouraging long-term engagement that extends beyond this fair. The vision includes year-round partnerships with both local and international non-profits, giving students diverse ways to apply their talents and interests to impactful causes. By intensifying these collaborations, the university hopes to prepare graduates not only for professional success but for lives dedicated to compassion and social responsibility. Paloma emphasises, “We want our students to take what they learn here and become leaders in service, wherever they go.”