Numerous third sector organizations have volunteering as a strategy of action. According to a survey conducted by the Institute for Developing Social Investment – IDIS and the Datafolha Research Institute, published in 2022, approximately 57 million Brazilians volunteer in some form of activity or organization. These are people who, spontaneously, donate their time and energy to social causes that mobilize them, in order to establish a relationship based on solidarity and, in so doing, exercise their citizenship rights. Volunteering requires commitment, responsibility, reflection, and critical awareness, and contributes to the expansion of consciousness and an understanding of different realities.
Volunteering at the Dara Institute
According to Dr. Vera Cordeiro, founder and president of the Institute, “Volunteers are the soul of Dara.” The organization believes that volunteering is a way to apply human and social potential in building teamwork aimed at transforming the lives of the families they serve. Due to the institution’s maturity and history, volunteers come to Dara spontaneously. However, to become part of the institution’s volunteer team, candidates must be at least 18 years old for activities directly involved in assisting families or children and a minimum of 16 for other activities. The selection and admission process includes interviews and signing a Commitment Agreement. There is then orientation and training about the institution’s rules and regulations, as well as the activities specific to each area. Coordination in each area is responsible for overseeing and supporting the volunteers.
Corporate Volunteering at the Dara Institute
Dara also conducts corporate volunteering activities such as collective efforts and special actions for companies as a way to engage them in social causes. Companies like Prudential and Veirano Advogados (a firm of lawyers) have already participated in events organized by Dara. Both companies and all other third sector organizations that draw inspiration from the pioneering methodology of the Family Action Plan – PAF, as well as organizations licensed by the institute, all work from the perspective of participation\ as citizens.
Corporate Volunteering
The Dara Institute also supports corporate volunteering, such as collective efforts and special actions for companies, as a way to engage in social causes. Companies such as Prudential and Veirano Advogados (a firm of lawyers) have already participated in events organized by Dara. Both companies and all third-sector organizations that were inspired by the pioneering methodology of the Family Action Plan – PAF, as well as organizations licensed by the institute, all work within the framework of participating as citizens. Every cultural change, no matter how widespread, must begin with a few individuals.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
Volunteering in family support at the Dara Institute.
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