Today, I want to share a meaningful experience I had while volunteering at a construction site. It was a joyful and fulfilling day, surrounded by fellow volunteers from different places and of all ages — each one ready to lend a hand and help make a difference.
Here are some photos of the preparations done yesterday in preparation for the concrete pouring.
The main goal for the day was to pour concrete for the fence putting. Before the actual work started, we were gathered for a short orientation.
Safety was the top priority — we were reminded that the goal was "zero accidents," and that everyone must look out for each other. It was a great way to set the tone: serious about safety, but with a spirit of teamwork.
After the briefing, we were divided into groups and assigned specific tasks based on our strengths and capabilities. I was assigned to operate a wheelbarrow, transporting mixed cement to the areas where it was needed. It was tiring work, but there was a shared energy among us. The laughter, the teamwork, and the shared purpose made every trip worth it.
Volunteering like this reminds me that it’s not just about building structures — it’s also about building community. And today, I felt that deeply.
One sister here is sweeping off the excess concrete mix that spilled, to make sure no one slips and everyone stays safe. It may seem like a small task, but it's a crucial one.
And some of the other sisters were gathering sacks that would be used to carry gravel and sand. They were really enjoying it, too.
These brothers, on the other hand, were assigned to operate the mixer machines. Their work was quite heavy too. Two mixers were being used to keep the concrete flowing efficiently.
And here are some of the sisters shoveling sand and gravel, putting them into sacks and bringing them to those operating the mixers.
As for me, there were about six of us taking turns pushing the wheelbarrow filled with concrete mix to the fence putting area. There was even a time when we ran out of water, so we had to use bottled mineral water instead because it was hard to fetch water, and the work couldn’t be stopped. In the following photos, you’ll see how everyone was busy with their own tasks. Each person had something important to do.
Here you can see the sisters using a concrete vibrator to help settle the cement mix properly.
A total of 120 bags of cement were used, and there were over 60 volunteers who helped out.
And here it is — all done. Volunteering truly brings such a rewarding and fulfilling feeling.
After the work was done, everything had to be cleaned — especially the tools, planks, boots, and other equipment that were used. To make the cleaning faster, one of the brothers used a power sprayer.
