#HiddenHero: Over 3,400 community volunteers boost World Vision’s work for children amid COVID-19

Thursday, June 25, 2020

“This is the best time that our communities need us the most,” says Godfrey Okuye Ateib, a volunteer at World Vision’s Cash Assistance Program supported by the World Food Programme (WFP). He added that being one has been a great experience for him. He was able to help improve the lives of many people while understanding the extent of the need in the country.

Godfrey has been a volunteer with World Vision’s various programming work since 2016. For him, it gave a new meaning to his daily life. He says, “I have a tough childhood and my life is still full of challenges. But when I am at work and I see the women and children smile as I help serve them, I feel that my contribution matters a lot.”

Video: Serving others with love and courage during COVID-19

**Achol’s job is to make sure mothers receive their cash assistance. With the threat of COVID-19, she also make sure to sanitize on her arrival and before leaving the center.**

Ayuel Madut Aluk, World Vision’s People and Culture Manager said that volunteer engagement is integral to the organization’s operations. “Our workforce is strengthened by the participation of community members in the delivery of humanitarian assistance. They become part of the work and the solution.”

There is nothing better than reaching down and helping lift someone up. Contributing to nation-building has always been my dream. Helping communities is an achievement for me. I understand the risks I am exposing myself with COVID-19 but I cannot sit at home when a child needs me.

“There is nothing better than reaching down and helping lift someone up. Contributing to nation-building has always been my dream. Helping communities is an achievement for me. I understand the risks I am exposing myself with COVID-19 but I cannot sit at home when a child needs me”, 29-year-old Achol Akech, another volunteer, shares.

Video: Cooking nutritious food for South Sudan's children

**Godfrey Akech has been a committed World Vision volunteer for five years now. He said this time of the pandemic is the best time to serve his countrymen.**

She adds, “We were provided with protective equipment for protection. I make sure I wear my gloves and face mask not only to keep myself safe but also to the people I serve and interact with.”

World Vision’s 3,422 volunteers supporting its various programs are vital in ensuring that its life-saving programs in the communities continue despite the pandemic. Among these thousands, the health and nutrition program tops the list with 1,957 volunteers dedicated to helping eradicate malnutrition and promote good health for children.

Ayuel Madut adds, “Volunteers are community members who share their time, talent, and experience to contribute to improving child well-being. They are provided with an allowance for their efforts or non-cash incentives to facilitate their work but not as payment for their services. They are often managed directly by World Vision or its partners.

Video: Rhoda finds hope through the cash-based program

**Achol and Godfrey share their experience with Communications Manager Cecil Laguardia who said, "The deserve a salute for being selfless in their commitment."**

Story and photos by Scovia Faida Charles Duku, Communications Coordinator