Finding Joy and Connection Through Volunteering in Familia – My Volunteering Journey

Volunteering isn’t just something I do—it’s who I am. My journey began as a teenager, following my elder brother to volunteer events. What started as a fun activity quickly became a lifestyle, fulfilling me as I saw the joy it brought—not just to others, but to me as well.

I’ve been involved in many kinds of volunteer work: organizing sports events, helping at concerts, and supporting families. Since moving to Finland in 2017, my focus has shifted to working with families through Familia, an organization supporting multicultural families. As a father, I can relate to the struggles parents face, and this area of volunteering feels like a natural extension of my own life.

Parents often feel isolated in their challenges, wondering, ”Is it just my child?” Through Familia, I’ve organized family events where parents can connect and share experiences. We discuss relatable topics—like raising children and balancing parenting with self-care. These gatherings help parents realize they’re not alone and offer new perspectives on common challenges.

Recently, I’ve begun involving my 10-year-old son in these activities. Watching him help and start his own journey into volunteering has been one of the most rewarding experiences, much like when my brother introduced me years ago.

The most fulfilling part of volunteering is seeing the relief on parents’ faces after our events. They feel more connected and supported, better equipped to face what’s next. Volunteering with Familia has shown me that it’s not just about giving, but receiving. I leave each event with a full heart, knowing I’ve gained as much as I’ve given.

It’s in these small moments of connection and shared understanding that I find the true joy of volunteering.

Text: Ali Dadi