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Volunteerism Builds Communities! | Purpose in Action by Gilbert Miki (PhD)

Updated: Nov 17

Stronger communities thrive on the spirit of giving back. Whether it’s building a school in Bafut, improving water access in Konene, or supporting education in Sabongari, in Cameroon, your time and effort can transform lives. 💪❤️


Miki Gilbert (PhD) and Eng. Mikah Edwin


True work driven by empathy is born out of a genuine commitment to volunteer. Many accomplished individuals owe their success to the foundation of selfless service.


To volunteer is to accelerate one's journey toward prosperity, as it fosters personal growth while simultaneously addressing community needs. Communities lacking individuals with a volunteering spirit often struggle to progress. Bridging service gaps and meeting unmet needs—often left unfulfilled by the government—requires the dedication of selfless community members.


- Elvis Tatah, Ashley Poutom, and Dr. Noella Gwanyama. Volunteerism is the embodiment of our spirit of community engagement. Through it, we grow stronger and also cultivate a sense of communal belonging and shared responsibility.


As Martin Silver aptly noted, the contributions of volunteers create transformative and enduring impacts. Effective volunteerism demands wholehearted commitment, a love for community, and a passion for uplifting lives.


Open Dreams Team Buea on Aviva Week, the biggest community outreach program at Open Dreams. Volunteerism is vital for driving sustainable development, especially in under-resourced communities


Volunteering isn’t just about helping others—it’s a rewarding path to personal growth and community impact. No matter how small, your contribution matters. Let’s make a difference together! 🙌


🌍 Purpose in Action by Gilbert Miki (PhD) 🌟


Community development thrives on unity of purpose! 💪🏾 For any village to develop sustainably, EVERYONE—young, old, men, and women—must work together. Just like the human body, where every part plays a role to keep us alive, each of us has a role to play in our community's progress.


Relying on the generosity of a select few elites who contribute large sums for community development is unsustainable though commendable! Meaningful community development happens when EVERYONE contributes, whether in cash or kind. Be the "eyes 👀," "hands ✋🏾," or "legs 🦵🏾" of your community. 💧 Support that water project. 🏫 Help build the skills development center. 🏥 Contribute to equipping the health center in your village.


🌟 Be part of the change! Your community needs you! It’s our responsibility to work together for a better and transformed village. 💡 Let’s rise and build TOGETHER.




🚨 Purpose in Action by Gilbert Miki (PhD) 🚨


Effective community development goes beyond just money—it needs leadership, vision, and strategy. Many village development associations in Africa focus only on short-term goals, but what about the next 30 years?


Out of 100 associations, maybe just one has a long-term vision. Strategic planning is essential for meaningful, sustainable development. 🌍


The cities we live in today were once villages, and they were shaped by visionary leaders. Do you have a generational vision for your village? Imagine Awing 2050, Batibo 2040, Ntumbaw 2060—it's time to plan for the future!



Purpose in Action – By Gilbert Miki (PhD) 🌍


Communities in the global south struggle with persistent poverty, often because development efforts are focused on high-visibility projects that promise quick wins rather than lasting, transformative change. Community leaders and local political elites frequently prioritize what serves the next election campaign over what truly serves the people. We see campaign promises made in poetry, yet governance delivered in prose.


Local development associations, once grounded in the needs of the community, are increasingly swayed by the agendas of a select few political voices, steering decisions away from the realities of those most affected. This brings us back to Robert Chambers’ fundamental question in community development: “Whose reality counts?” Is it the perspective of the political elite or the genuine needs of the community?


True development action lies in refocusing efforts on what matters to the people—understanding and valuing their realities and creating change that resonates with their everyday lives. Real progress starts here. 🌱 #PurposeInAction

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