SOCIAL AND HUMAN ASPECT OF UVDA

UVDA services are based on the African tradition of sharing and being humane, where interests of others come first, before individual interests. UVDA members are thus encouraged to care for others. UVDA members (especially youth), focus on helping unfortunate and underprivileged people within society and also try to assist those affected to be fully involved in decision making.

Through these activities UVDA members remain attached to the local communities, especially at times when the gap between the rich and poor, the literate and illiterate widens.

The association’s experiences in inter-human relations teaches us that it is possible for people from different ethnic and educational backgrounds to live and work together as members of one family, using one communicable language, eating locally prepared food and sharing common accommodation.

The experiences and impressions acquired by the participants in these programmes have made them have a wider focus which is beyond where they come from and has made them appreciate other countries and other people’s perspectives.

SELF RELIANCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

UVDA encourages every citizen to get involved in its programmes in Uganda and through partner organizations in other countries. Since its inception, UVDA has worked in conjunction with government agencies in development initiatives in some parts of the country. It is envisaged that the association will extend its outreach programmes to the areas like West Nile, the Northern and some North Eastern districts of Uganda so as to expand its development initiatives country wide.

UVDA discourages one sided receipt of help i.e. from UVDA to project or community, rather there has to exist mutual help or assistance i.e. from UVDA to the project or community and back to UVDA. This is a two way partnership that preserves human dignity and self respect.

SERVICES AT THE PROJECTS

Our service is rendered alongside local members of the community. The nature of activities is that they are useful to the community, that society needs you as a volunteer and that you are accepted as a complete member of that community. Besides it enables you win friends while working and living with fellow participants from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds from all over the world.

During the work period, most participants feel satisfaction and appreciation from the fact that they have rendered help where it was most needed. This brings about a sense of social responsibility and care.

WHAT IS EXPECTED FROM A PARTICIPANT

A participant is expected to provide practical voluntary service to the needy community without expecting a reward or profit. A participant should also share communal life facilities with other participants and members of the local community, young and old, should take part fully and honestly in group activities and be frank in discussion.

A participant should also be willing to take responsibility and help in the organization and management of the project. A participant is also expected to exhibit mature behaviour during work and in the presence of local community members. Particularly, respect should be given to the camp leader since he/she knows well the community where the activity is being conducted.

A participant’s behaviour when it is good, responsible and mature will be an example to others which will encourage them to join in the activity.