The Founder of Encouragement Initiatives (EI), Dr. Rotimiolu Akinlesi, has called on volunteers of the Non Govermental Organisation (NGOs) to surround themselves with like-minded individuals and adopt structured approaches in their humanitarian services to ensure accountability.

Dr. Akinlesi made the call during the EI Abeokuta Annual Meet-Up held at Baptist Girls College, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, with the theme, “Givers Never Lack.”

He described volunteering as a demanding responsibility that involves selfless service and a commitment to improving the lives of the less privileged.

“Volunteering is about rendering selfless service, helping people, and giving to those in need. These are values we uphold in EI. Our goal as an NGO is to put smiles on the faces of the less privileged, and God has been helping us achieve this. I appreciate our volunteers for their unwavering support over the years and look forward to greater accomplishments this year. As I always say, if you focus only on your needs, you will not be able to help others,” he said.

Dr. Akinlesi explained that the purpose of the meet-up was to encourage volunteers to see humanitarian service as a pathway to fulfilling their purpose.,noting that the true measure of living lies in the number of lives positively impacted, while stressing that supporting the less privileged goes beyond charity and reflects genuine love that makes beneficiaries feel valued and included in society.

Also speaking at the event, the Co-Founder of EI, Dr. Bukunola Akinlesi, described volunteering as one of the most effective ways of bringing smiles to people’s faces while contributing to the development of a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Some participants, including Mrs. Abiodun Odukoya and Mrs. Oyin Oyenuga, said the meet-up had deepened their understanding of the organisation’s mission. They expressed their commitment to expanding their own humanitarian efforts and making meaningful impacts in their communities.

Highlights of the event included games, dancing, networking, bonding, and other social activities aimed at strengthening relationships among volunteers.