Giving Back

Pay it forward to your housing society

public domain image created by AI

When people think of giving back to society, they have grandiose ideas in their head. “I will solve all the problems of the city / local area!” is the general direction of thinking.

Being aware of general problems is a good thing. But thinking that you should make a huge difference only, is a trap that many folks fall into. 

Instead, just try to think at a modest level what change you can realistically bring about. It can start off with yourself (rather it should start off with yourself). Can you change one thing / habit that you do on a regular basis? It will have an impact on you (definitely), and maybe your family / friends / colleagues will benefit by it too. A tiny pebble can also cause ripples in still waters. That’s a good start, right?

Personally, I discovered an easy way to give back to society - our housing complex itself! (Coincidentally, we in India call that a society :-) ).

There is so much to do even in small societies, that you are almost sure to be able to contribute. And trust me, its a never-ending, thankless and character-building job :) I joined our Society Committee (not one of the top three posts, but as a regular member). I feel proud to have served in this capacity for a decade (two full terms)!

Because of this I was able to understand first-hand all the areas that needed improvement. The committee then lists all the “projects” that need to be implemented - in simple words, things that need doing. 

As a member, you can choose to volunteer in any area that interests you or sometimes you get saddled with something. In my case, it was ‘communication’ and lifts (elevators).

Communication entailed conveying the various decisions by the committee to the wider society audience. It also meant reiterating guidelines, deadlines, and dos and donts. This was especially vital during the COVID period, where it was imperative that folks follow certain things to avoid the disease from spreading amongst our members. I work in IT and have to communicate all the time. I like doing it as well. So the above fit me like a glove.

I also realized that communication issues form 80% of the issues. If one communicates in the right manner, in the correct tone, and at the appropriate time; it nips most problems in the bud. It is a learning I have carried in my other day-to-day dealings and have benefited tremendously.

The other area that I took up was elevators (maintenance). This was definitely not something I liked. But it was necessary, and also vital for the day to day running of the society. It took me into unchartered territory:

1. Working with vendors

2. Finding what makes the elevators run (and what the weak spots are)

3. Having parts ordered, waiting for them to be delivered and then installed

4. And above all, fending queries / complaints from residents at all times of the day / night :-)

My work was localized. It definitely was not noticed by anyone outside our housing complex. Even inside the complex, it is doubtful how many appreciated it. But that is not the point of giving back. The intention should always be to make a difference. Contribute with a sincere heart, and you will definitely do some good in the world. It may affect only one person. But do it - it’s worth it.