OVE '11: Anecdotes: Jess's story

The Overseas Volunteering Expedition 2011

Overseas Volunteering Expedition (OVE) is a committee under the special projects wing of NTU’s Welfare Services Club. OVE began its journey in 2003 when a group of NTU undergraduates came together to set up a committee to provide students with opportunities to see the world. However, in 2004, the Overseas Volunteering Expedition changed its focus to one of philanthropy. Since then, the OVE has brought NTU undergraduates to destinations like Taiwan, Philippines, Cambodia and Laos.

OVE'11 was initiated with the following three aims:
1. To keep the spirit of volunteerism alive in the hearts of WSC volunteers by working hand-in-hand with beneficiaries aboard.
2. To nurture the passion and advocate the cause and meaning of overseas volunteering.
3. To add value to the lives of the less privileged living abroad.

Bearing OVE’s missions in mind, OVE’11 will be commencing on an expedition trip to Laos with hopes that our project will improve the lives of the underprivileged beyond Singapore, reaching out to the community and enriching lives.

Anecdotes: Jess's story

It has been 3 years since my first overseas community project (OCP) and I still remember clearly how it felt like to do something meaningful for someone else’s lives. Yup, after the OCP in Cambodia with my poly-mates, I’ve came to realize that my life can never be complete if I just lived for myself. You know, whenever I recall those joyfully grateful smiles on the villagers’ faces, I just can’t help smiling to myself =)

It’s a kind of magical happiness that I’ve been feeling all the way and I have no idea how to describe it in words. All I know is, it feels so great that I got addicted to this feeling I get when I help others. And that’s why, here I am, joining OVE =D

Come come, let me show you my picture in Cambodia, 2008 ^^

If you wanna know more about our poly project at Cambodia, check this out! http://bmsocpoct2008.wetpaint.com/page/Blog+-+Jess+Vo

Alright, now let’s talk about the present, me and OVE!

First of all, I gotta admit that to me, being part of the OVE team is really an honor! ^^

Nothing could be cooler than starting a brand new project from A to Z! Deciding from where to go, what to do, how to raise funds, how to publicise the club and so on… You see, before I actually reached Laos in person to help the Laotians, I have already learnt so much for myself ^^v

A very simple and practical example of new skill I’ve learnt since joining OVE is………car washing/waxing/polishing! Lolz!

Picture taken during a carwash event to raise funds for OVE!

Okie! Even though I went for an OCP previously, I don’t consider myself as an experienced OVE team member because each and every OCP is different in its own way. And although I’m not sure of how capable I am of contributing to OVE, I do believe that I’ll play my part well because I know my passion is strong enough for me, together with my fellow OVEans, to overcome the challenges throughout this journey! =D

So…if you’ve ever wondered what you can get when you immerse yourself into volunteering work, all I can tell you is that, "Once you give, you already receive". And well, you only really know what that means if you are also a volunteer ‘_^