Toybank is an NGO based in Mumbai which has a unique ideology , emphasizing on the power of play for underprivileged children from various backgrounds.I went to Mumbai and had a training workshop with the NGO and did various charitable activities during my stay there.After coming home , I realized that something similar can be started out here in Surat , so I decided on organizing toy collection drives for Toybank to make sure all children can experience the “Power of Play”.
LO1- Identify own strengths and develop areas for growthÂ
Before going to the Toybank headquarters , I was least interested in such charitable activities but when I visited, I realized the massive importance of NGOs.I identified that my negotiation and marketing skills could be used in organizing toy collection drives and therefore decided to develop my own skills through organizing various drives.
LO2- Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process.
As Toybank had a new and different ideology , it was very difficult to explain people about it and that the ability to play is an important factor in a child’s development.Through Toybank, I improved my public speaking skills and communication skills as I had to coordinate and communicate with various donors all across the city on my own.
LO4- Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences
My experience with Toybank began around two years ago and still I continue doing monthly donation drives and contribute my share to the NGO’s goal.
LO-5- Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively.
A NGO as big as Toybank cannot function without the involvement of various volunteers and stakeholders.As Surat drive in-charge, I had to regularly communicate and collaborate with my superiors in Mumbai for things like deciding marketing strategy in Surat.
LO-7- Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions.
As the volume of donations increased, I needed to give some proof to the donors that their money and valuable resources were put to use and not wasted.I understood that I as an Organizer have to be ethical in doing my work.I had to make clear that I was ethically using their donations and not using them for my own benefit.
