Welcome to another “face of ACS”, an interview series starring ACS Volunteers and their journey in serving the non-profit community.
Lilian began her ACS journey in May 2019 when she returned to Hong Kong after decades of working overseas. She stepped down from a full-time corporate role to pursue a few interests she had always wanted to do in life, including volunteering. Taking on some volunteer work is one of them and she is glad to have found the opportunity at ACS.
What 3 words would your friends use to describe you?
Detail-oriented, conscientious and empathetic.
You have been a passionate, enthusiastic volunteer on a number of ACS programs, as well as leading our Community Outreach Team – could you share your volunteering journey so far and your motivation for volunteering with ACS?
I was referred to ACS by Elaine, another dedicated volunteer. The first program I volunteered at was SPRINT : even though it was a full day program, I didn’t feel that it was packed at all as there was so much to learn and put in practice.
I have now participated in all the programs offered by ACS and what I love most besides contributing as a volunteer consultant, is that I am also always learning new things from the speakers and, even more, from the participating NGOs. Earlier this year I took on an additional role as a co-lead of the Community Outreach Team, which allows me to learn more about the NGO landscape in Hong Kong. The Mission of ACS to empower small and medium NGOs resonates with my passion to contribute and grow with those in need.
From your volunteering experience with ACS so far, what would be your 3 top tips to those who have just joined the ACS Volunteer Community?
1) Be prepared, review all the materials beforehand and do some research on your assigned NGO teams to know them better;
2) Be empathetic, put yourself into the shoes of the NGO and take on their perspective;
3) Be open-minded and also learn during the workshops
Thank you Lilian for your time in this interview, and for sharing your journey story with us. We look forward to seeing you at our next ACS activity. All the best!
