The Global Shapers Community of Chennai, an international youth-led organisation, launched an upgraded version of its Volunteer Guide platform at IIT Madras Research Park on Nov.16. Originally introduced in May 2023, the enhanced platform provides a comprehensive resource for students, professionals, and residents to discover and engage with volunteering opportunities across Chennai.
The revamped website, www.volunteerguide.in, now features detailed profiles of over 100 NGOs, including their missions, contact details, and volunteering needs. Designed to streamline Chennai’s fragmented volunteering ecosystem, the platform has already connected over 3,000 users and garnered 35,000 views. Plans for expansion to Pondicherry, Coimbatore, and Bangalore are underway, with efforts to connect with NGOs in these cities.
The Global Shapers Chennai Community also showcased initiatives like a paper bag project empowering women from Chintadripet, a peer mentorship program for first-generation female earners, and an envelope-making initiative with the Lions Club supporting individuals with visual impairments. Additionally, a bilingual Tamil-English picture book developed in partnership with Yein Udaan, aims to enhance financial literacy in underserved communities.
The zero-waste event drew over 100 attendees, including representatives from prominent organisations like Bhumi, Siragu, Ability Foundation, and Goonj. Through projects like the Volunteer Guide and other community-driven efforts, the Global Shapers Community continues to champion volunteerism, education, and empowerment as catalysts for social change.
