Youth Forum: Lessons from 'voluntours'

Recently, I got an opportunity to go on a "voluntour" near Mount Kelud, the volcano in East Java that erupted last month ("'Voluntours' growing in popularity in Singapore"; March 10).

It was an eye-opener for me as I got to know the plight of people who were struggling to get a proper education or jobs. It changed my perspective on life and I am now grateful for what I have.

Having a large pool of volunteers means more countries that need help can be covered.

"Voluntours" can help make a difference in people's lives. The lessons gleaned from such trips make volunteering outside of Singapore worthwhile.

Darren Chan Keng Leong, 21, full-time national serviceman

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