On 11 January 2025, the Diploma in Psychology students from IJN College participated in a heartfelt volunteer activity at Sincerecare Home, a shelter dedicated to caring for the homeless and mentally ill. This initiative highlights the college’s commitment to fostering human values and empathy in future healthcare and psychology professionals.
Sincerecare Home: A Place of Hope and Care
Located in the heart of the community, Sincerecare Home serves as a sanctuary for individuals struggling with homelessness and mental health challenges. The home provides essential support, including shelter, food, and emotional care, for residents who are often marginalized by society. This visit gave IJN College students a firsthand experience of the realities faced by vulnerable communities and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to their wellbeing.
The Role of Volunteerism in Shaping Future Professionals
At IJN College, education goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. The institution places a strong emphasis on developing well-rounded professionals who are not only skilled in their fields but also possess high emotional intelligence and empathy. Volunteer activities, such as the visit to Sincerecare Home, are integral to the curriculum for Diploma in Psychology students, enabling them to understand the importance of compassion and care in their future careers.
During the visit, the students engaged with residents through conversations, activities, and games. These interactions provided the residents with much-needed social engagement and created a positive atmosphere within the home. The students also gained valuable insights into the psychological aspects of mental health care, enhancing their practical understanding of how empathy can make a significant difference in patients’ lives.
Nurturing Human Values at IJN College
The mission of IJN College extends beyond producing highly qualified graduates. The institution aims to shape professionals with a strong sense of social responsibility and compassion. The focus on human values and empathy is woven into every academic program, ensuring that graduates leave with not just technical expertise but also the ability to connect deeply with the people they serve.
According to Prof. Emerita Dr. Durrishah Idrus, Chief Executive of IJN College:
“At IJN College, we believe that healthcare and psychology professionals must possess more than just knowledge and skills. They must have empathy and a heart for humanity. This is what we strive to instill in our students through community engagement and volunteer work.”
The Impact of Volunteer Work on Students
Volunteer activities like this provide students with an opportunity to experience real-life scenarios that will prepare them for their future roles in healthcare and psychology. These experiences teach valuable lessons that cannot be learned in a classroom, such as:
- Developing Empathy: By interacting with individuals who face unique challenges, students build emotional awareness and learn to approach situations with compassion.
- Understanding Mental Health Issues: Volunteering at a shelter like Sincerecare Home helps students better understand the complexities of mental health conditions and the importance of holistic care.
- Building Communication Skills: Engaging with residents from different backgrounds enhances students’ communication abilities, a vital skill in any healthcare or counseling profession.
- Fostering Social Responsibility: Community service reinforces the importance of giving back to society and supporting vulnerable populations.
Creating a Lasting Impact in the Community
The visit to Sincerecare Home is part of IJN College’s ongoing efforts to contribute positively to the community. These volunteer programs are designed to leave a lasting impact, both on the students and the communities they serve. Through these initiatives, IJN College hopes to inspire more individuals to engage in community service and support causes that promote social wellbeing.
The activity also aligns with the college’s core values of empathy, integrity, and excellence. By taking part in meaningful volunteer work, students learn that healthcare is not just about treating illnesses but also about caring for people’s mental and emotional wellbeing.
Shaping Future Professionals with Empathy and Compassion
As IJN College continues to nurture the next generation of healthcare and psychology professionals, activities like the volunteer visit to Sincerecare Home serve as a reminder of the importance of human values in professional practice. These experiences help students realize that true success lies not only in their academic achievements but also in their ability to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
By fostering empathy and compassion, IJN College ensures that its graduates are more than just professionals — they are professionals with heart.
