ESSAY FROM ESTONIA

Charity for our feelings of well being

Charity has always been there. The majority of people have helped someone out at least once in a lifetime. Each new generation is given more options and chances to change the world for the better. The question is: “Are we using all the chances that have been given to us or are we just doing the least? “One of the meaning of happiness lies within charity. Only the strong at mind and kind at heart can support the ones in need.

If we take a look at Estonian charity, we can see that it has transformed a lot in years of independence. Nowadays we can see a vast variety of charities, there are long term charities and just campaigns. Long term charities are the ones that have the most effect on those peoples’ lives who are not well off. One that gives constant support is called “Toidupank“(Food Bank). It supports individuals and families that cannot manage on their own. Other organisations that truly have an effect on the life of our people are “Lastefond“(Children’s’ Foundation), “Naerata Ometi MTÜ“(Keep Smiling), and “Heategevusfond Dharma“(Charity Foundation Dhrama). All of them have a positive effect on peoples’ lives.
One of Estonian famous seasonal campaigns is called “Jõulutunnel” (Christmas Tunnel). It is held once a year but still has effect on peoples’ minds, hearts and overall wellbeing.

Secondly, let us talk about our college and charity. Last May our College Student Council created an event for orphanage children and the task was to find the sponsors for the event. Last Christmas there was a project where books and toys were collected for donation to large families. In the end of the last year, there was a bakery sale and every team could decide the charity they donated the profits to.

Finally, the charity projects our team members have participated in. Riina, as a member of the College Student Council, was responsible for finding sponsors for the orphanage project. Raigo has never had enough money to make frequent donations, but he does have time. For example, last year, when he did not get accepted into the college, he started volunteering in a local shelter for children. It was the first time in his life that he felt that his contribution of time actually mattered. Martin participated in a popular charity project called Ice-Bucket Challenge.

In conclusion we can say that charity is all around us. To make people feel better you sometimes just need time and good will.