Over the last month, Reach Out To Asia (Rota), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), has been hosting its annual Ramadan 2016 project – ‘10 Years of Service’. The initiative, which featured activities such as Iftars and distribution of groceries, aims to support construction workers, the elderly, and other local groups in Qatar.
Rota’s Ramadan campaign is part of a multifaceted programme, which strives to promote a spirit of volunteerism and foster responsible global citizens within Qatar. Rota not only endeavours to help those in need locally, its impact can be felt on the international stage too. The organisation regularly organises trips to poverty-stricken countries, or areas affected by war or natural disasters, and offers support to local communities, placing emphasis on providing quality education.
Ahmed Allenjawi, who took part in this year’s Ramadan project said, “My day as a volunteer starts around 5pm and ends around 10pm. I was greatly moved after taking part in the food distribution activities; the sense of achievement was extraordinary. Around 30 volunteers gathered and packed different food items into boxes. During one of the Ramadan activities, we met around 4pm and took a bus to Al Shamal, where we were briefed. After that, we prepared tables, prayed, ate, and then played football and volleyball. We hugely appreciate the efforts of the workers; it’s because of them that we are where we are as a country.”
“It’s very important to help the community; it reminds us we are human and that we need to help and support one another,” Allenjawi added. “I always think, ‘try and put yourself in someone else’s position’. As a Muslim, volunteering in Ramadan is especially important to me. Helping others and helping my community, especially those in need, is very satisfying. You forget all your own problems when you see others struggling to make a living.”
Hamad Saad Abu Jbara, another local volunteer, also took part in this year’s Ramadan project said, “My day during Ramadan started after Asr prayer, when I went to Msheireb Mosque to register the volunteers and assign them their daily tasks.”
Volunteering does not only help to strengthen communities, the rewards are manifold. By making a difference in someone’s life, volunteering promotes personal and professional development, offers the opportunity to learn or develop new skills, helps to connect individuals, and affords the chance to try new and exciting experiences.  
Volunteers give freely of their time and expertise in order to make a difference. Discussing the kind of men and women who make good volunteers, Jbara said: “They are people who take the initiative, who like to meet likeminded individuals, and who are keen on giving others a chance to develop and to improve their living standards.”