Venturing in the World of Volunteering - The Island Sanctuary

This is the first of a three part series of articles written by Lindsay Fenech following her experience in three different voluntary organisations. These articles serve to explain the details of her experience within The Fair Trade Shop (L-Arka), Funny Farm - Horse Rescue Association and The Island Sanctuary.

The Island Sanctuary

The Island Sanctuary is another NGO which is found in Dellimara (Marsaxlokk). The main objective of the Island Sanctuary is to cater for the needs of stray and abandoned dogs in Malta. This NGO gives home to over 150 dogs and unfortunately it is always over capacity.

Expenses must be the Sanctuary’s main obstacle. Much of the money is spent on food, treats for the dogs, medications, the vet’s visits and the electricity bills. It is really difficult to overcome all these payments. Although the government gives an amount of money to help out, the bills are never fully covered. Hence, donations made by people are vital for this NGO. People can adopt a dog but only after they fill up a form, so that the people of the Sanctuary can check on the dogs later on. This shows the dedication and responsibility of the people of the Island Sanctuary.

The Sanctuary opens both in the morning and the evening. A lot of work must be done in order to satisfy all the dogs’ needs. Apart from feeding the dogs, the volunteers must fill their bowls with water, give them their medication, take the dogs for long walks, play with these animals and clean the rooms in which the dogs stay.

Volunteering at the Island Sanctuary was a really life-changing experience. Also the volunteers were very kind and friendly. The dogs at this NGO are really cuddly and playful. Some of them are really energetic while others are calmer. I would highly recommend to anyone to spend some of their free time at the Sanctuary to help out. By doing this, one would be helping, who were neglected or abused, live a happier life, as they deserve.

Venturing in the World of Volunteering - The Funny Farm

This is the second of a three part series of articles written by Lindsay Fenech following her experience in three different voluntary organisations. These articles serve to explain the details of her experience within The Fair Trade Shop (L-Arka), Funny Farm - Horse Rescue Association and The Island Sanctuary.

Funny Farm - The Horse Rescue Association

Funny Farm is found in Bidnija, the outskirts of Mosta. This NGO’s main objective is to give shelter to neglected and ill-treated horses. Nearly all horses have been saved from; being sold for their meat, abandoned or put down. This NGO also gives home to other animals such as dogs and cats.

The owners of Funny Farm have a lot of expenses that need to be covered. Horses are big animals; hence they need more food than other ones. The concentrates and the hay given to the horses are quite expensive. They also need to buy some dog food and cat food and they have to pay the electricity bills. Even though the government gives them a sum of money, it is never enough to cover all the payment. Any medications given to the animals and the vets’ visits continue to increase the expenses.

Apart from that, a lot of work has to be done every day. Feeding all the horses is one tiring job. Not to mention cleaning the stables and the yard! In addition to, horses have to be washed and their hooves need to be cleaned or else the animals would get hurt.

The volunteers work both in the mornings and the evenings. These people are really dedicated and capable to handle such needy animals.

There are many reasons why someone should be involved in this organization. Firstly horses are really smart and adorable animals. At first, I must admit I was a bit frightened of such big animals, but by time I managed to overcome my fear. After a couple of hours, I was feeling very brave near the horses. Also, this experience helps you become more aware about the needs of animals and the animals’ rights. Many people consider animals as inferior organisms. Organisations like these reduce abuses on animals and create more awareness. It is also a nice way to make new friends.

There are many jobs that a volunteer could do on the farm, for instance washing the horses. All help is much appreciated.

I can personally say that my experience at the farm was wonderful. I’ve learned more about horses, which are such amazing animals. Also, I felt like I was making a difference in the world. 

Venturing in the World of Volunteering - Il-Hanut L-Arka

This is the first of a three part series of articles written by Lindsay Fenech following her experience in three different voluntary organisations. These articles serve to explain the details of her experience within The Fair Trade Shop (L-Arka), Funny Farm - Horse Rescue Association and The Island Sanctuary.

Il-Hanut L-Arka - Kooperativa Kummerc Gust.

Il-Hanut Arka, which is located in St. Paul’s Street, Valletta, is a shop run by Koperattiva Kummerc Gust, which its main goal is to promote fairness and equality between producers and consumers. The term ‘Equality’ defines a situation where everyone is treated the same and no preferences or exploitations are made. The producers of the items sold in the shop are offered better trading terms and conditions. These producers are found in various countries like Indonesia and India. These produce different kinds of commodities. In fact, in the shop one can find both food items and decorations.

The Fair Trade tries to reduce abuses made on these people by large firms, which their only concern is to make abnormal profits. The people who run the shop give a huge importance to human rights, which help poor people from being exploited. They keep track of different producers so that they won’t be taken advantage of. The Fair Trade works with various producers for example the EMA (Equitable Marketing Association) which is found in India. All the principles of a democratic society are valued in this shop.

Many volunteers help in the shop. The shop opens from 9.30 am to 1.00pm and from 4.30pm to 6.30 on the weekdays. However, on Saturday it only opens from 9.30 am till 1.00pm. The shop is always very busy especially in the mornings. Many people visit the shop because the goods sold are very original and unique. A lot of tourists visit the shop to buy gifts. Usually only one volunteer stays in the shop. Apart from selling things to the clients, the volunteer must also rearrange the items on the shelves and the shop window.

I personally suggest that volunteering with il-Hanut Arka is an amazing experience. I spent approximately 9 hours working with the shop and I really enjoyed it. I got to meet new people and the other volunteers were really friendly. Since I was working for a good cause, the experience was really satisfying. It also made feel really appreciated and help me widen my knowledge. I got to learn more about different cultures. I also realised that I should put more into consideration those who are ‘less fortunate’.