Jemima Mohammed recounts her time as a volunteer at the MJF Foundation Centre West in Moratuwa…
“The Merrill J. Fernando (MJF) Charitable Foundation is more than just a charity – it is a home and a sanctuary for many including myself. As a student freshly out of school, it was my goal to work at a non-profit organisation. However, I did not anticipate harbouring such a deep connection to a place as I have with the MJF Foundation. The community is tight-knit, and the people here never fail to welcome you with open arms.
“After a customary round of introductions and a tour of the Moratuwa centre, my first day was filled with the contagious energy and laughter of the preschool students. The teachers were supportive and constantly willing to guide me on how to effectively cater to their students’ needs. A special shout out goes to all the teachers whose creativity and dedication transform delightful chaos into informative learning. Whilst being a non-profit school consisting of a preschool, primary and youth section, the Centre also offers a wide range of activities, many of which encourage the involvement of its volunteers.
“In the morning, it operates as a fully functioning school where you can assist the students with their daily learning. Later, you’re free to explore a variety of extracurricular activities. If you’re eager to try your hand at carpentry, dive into the art of soap making or even learn the process of assembling a wheelchair, MJF is the place to go. Those being only a few of many activities they present. It not only provides opportunities to learn new skills but also challenges the stigma surrounding disabilities. The atmosphere at the Foundation may be warm but it is the people that truly bring it to life. Between visits to Mrs. Rehana’s and Mr. Angelo’s offices (which always promises good conversation) to savouring a good cup of Sarath Uncle’s tea, my experience as a volunteer has been nothing short of fulfilling.”
If you’d like to volunteer at the MJF Charitable Foundation, which has Centres in Moratuwa, Rajagiriya, Weligama, Kalkudah and Jaffna, please complete this form: https://www.mjffoundation.org/volunteer.html or email: rehana.wettasinghe@mjffoundation.org
