YWCA and DBS Bank (Hong Kong) have teamed up to launch a series of volunteer initiatives, weaving a mutual support network that connects corporate volunteers with diverse groups in society. These journeys of community care go far beyond one-off services, but form a complete cycle - from preparation to implementation, learning to teaching – cultivating a culture of compassion within the community.

The “Kindness Action” commenced with the “Handicraft Co-creation Workshop” in late May. Guided by YWCA’s young mothers, 100 DBS volunteers crafted water bottle pouches and plush toys, created videos and prepared “wish-fulfillment” blessing cards. This was more than just gift-making. It offered a window into the hearts of elders and children. From seniors yearning for health and gatherings to children dreaming of academic success and joy, volunteers gained insights into real community needs, laying the groundwork for future actions.

In June, DBS volunteers brought their work from the workshop to the Western District. They paired one-on-one with seniors to engage in smile-inducing games and compassion-themed art activities, spreading love and care to needy people. They later shifted roles to become mentors for the children, guiding them to explore the values of kindness. The shift from beneficiary to benefactor created a cycle of care and mutual support.

With the curtain closing on the June chapter, DBS volunteers continued spreading love to Sham Shui Po in July. Kicking things off was the “Vibrant Seniors Movie Day”, in which 124 DBS volunteers and 100 elderly met each other. After the warm-up exercises led by a fitness coach, anti-fraud workshops blended with “World Records” games merged education with fun. An afternoon screening of "The Dumpling Queen", a heartfelt movie based on a true story, deeply touched the audience. Looking ahead to August and September, volunteers will send out give packs to the community, emphasising regular companionship over one-time service.

At its core, DBS’s volunteer initiative is to build a sustainable community support network that every participant benefits. Young mothers showcased their potential as instructors, corporate volunteers grew through hands-on service and heartfelt interactions, and elders and children felt the warmth of genuine companionship. YWCA witnessed this ripple of compassion extend beyond the moment, planting seeds of lasting mutual aid through the community. This embodies the ethos of “Care transcends moments, goodwill flows perpetually”. YWCA believes these seeds of goodwill – nurtured with professionalism and genuine care - will sprout into new forms of mutual support, blossoming across communities in the future.