The Impact and Importance of Youth Volunteerism!

At 18, Kevonne is in the middle of an exciting yet challenging chapter in her life. She’s preparing for her O Levels, but alongside that, she’s been navigating her personal growth, discovering the value of community, and finding new ways to give back.

One of the most rewarding experiences for Kevonne has been volunteering at YGOS, which has become a big part of her life over the past few years.

It all started when a friend introduced her to YGOS. Initially, it was just a fun hangout spot that soon became a space where Kevonne felt truly at home. "I loved playing games with the staff and my friends," she says with a smile. "It was just a fun way to spend time, but it quickly became more than that." As she spent more time at YGOS, it became a place where she could share her thoughts—whether it was about school struggles or friendship challenges. The environment felt warm, welcoming, and full of people who cared.

It was also a space where she could express herself, clear her mind, and seek advice when she needed it. “There’s always something fun to do, and the staff are super supportive. They helped me a lot, especially when I had a tough day,” she recalls. It was this connection, both with the activities and the people around her, that kept her coming back. YGOS became a place of both relaxation and personal growth.

But what truly made YGOS special for Kevonne was the sense of community. "I started to feel like I belonged there," she says. The chance to meet new people, bond over shared experiences, and just relax in a safe space meant a lot to her during a time when life was full of pressure. And it was this feeling of connection that eventually inspired her to take the next step: volunteering.

“I wanted to give back to the place that had supported me so much,” Kevonne explains. Volunteering at YGOS became a way for her to contribute to the community that had played such a big role in her growth. She wanted to be there for other young people, just like the staff had been there for her. "It’s a place that’s always been there for me, and I wanted to help make it that same kind of space for others."

Volunteering has been a rewarding experience so far, being able to give back and also learn more about herself. "It’s been a great way to gain experience working with other youths," she shares. "It’s not just about giving back; it’s also about learning and growing along the way." Through volunteering, Kevonne has not only deepened her connection to the community but also built valuable skills that will help her in the future.

Kevonne’s journey has been inspired by others in the community, like Grace, Wilson Peh, and Jiamin. “They’ve shown me what it means to be truly committed to helping others,” she says. Their dedication to the community has motivated her to follow in their footsteps and make her impact.

For Kevonne, volunteering is about much more than just giving time—it’s about creating a ripple effect of kindness and support. “Volunteering is meaningful because it lets you contribute to something bigger than yourself,” she explains. “You make a real difference in someone’s life while also growing personally and gaining new perspectives. It’s a rewarding experience that shapes your future and the futures of those you help.”

Looking back, Kevonne believes that youth volunteerism is something everyone should experience. "It’s a great way to learn more about yourself and others," she says. "You get to give back, develop new skills, and build connections with people from all walks of life."

And even though taking the first step can feel intimidating, Kevonne has a simple message: “Start small. You’ll realize that every contribution, no matter how little, makes a difference. Plus, there are always supportive people around you who will guide you through the process.”

For Kevonne, volunteering has not only been a way to give back but also a way to grow, connect, and make a difference. It’s an experience that has shaped her path and will continue to guide her as she moves forward in life.