From Environmental Cleanups to Senior Care: Shincheonji Volunteer Group's Sustainable Acts of Kindness

From Environmental Cleanups to Senior Care: 

Shincheonji Volunteer Group's Sustainable Acts of Kindness

In the first half of 2025, the Volunteer Group of 12 Tribes’ Shincheonji Church of Jesus actively carried out volunteer work tailored to local needs across the country, proving itself as a faith-based community deeply embedded in society. From wildfire recovery and senior care to environmental cleanups and blood donation campaigns, their efforts were wide-ranging and ongoing.

◆Environmental Campaigns Rooted in Daily Life

To mark Earth Day in April, 23 domestic and 32 overseas branches joined the “Climate Change Week” campaign. The results were tangible: 121 kilometers of cleaned areas and 13,000 liters of waste collected. Activities like upcycling experiences for children, stream cleanups, and tree planting attracted wide civic participation.

Branches in the Seoul metropolitan area, including Ansan, Seongnam, and Suwon, regularly organized plogging events, engaging local residents in environmental awareness. Meanwhile, the Andre Church in Busan has been hosting weekly plogging sessions since last year, receiving warm praise from nearby business owners for their consistent, cheerful contributions.

◆Restoration Work in Wildfire-Affected Areas

In Andong, Gyeongbuk, volunteers helped restore areas damaged by wildfires and ran awareness campaigns with local residents to prevent future fires. At Jirie Art Village, volunteers meticulously cleaned debris and soot with their bare hands, leaving a touching impression on the community.

Volunteer Lee Kyung-mi expressed her sincere hope for the area’s recovery, while village chief Kim Won-gil thanked the team, saying, “This isn’t just a building—it holds dreams and memories for many.”

◆Emotional and Practical Care for the Elderly

Cheongju branch runs the “Beautiful Seniors” project, offering companionship and daily support to elderly individuals living alone. The team also partners with disability and veterans’ organizations to implement the “Pinky Promise” campaign, bridging welfare gaps for vulnerable groups.

Yeosu branch launched the “Clean & Bright” initiative, focusing on elderly war veterans. After organizing and cleaning neglected households, they offered therapeutic activities like gardening and dreamcatcher-making, fostering emotional connection and sharing personal stories.

◆Pre-Monsoon Flood Prevention Efforts

Uijeongbu and Namyangju branches carried out environmental maintenance work in preparation for the rainy season. Volunteers cleaned drainage systems and removed aquatic weeds from streams despite the scorching 30°C heat, earning heartfelt thanks from appreciative residents who commented, “The neighborhood feels alive again.”

At Yongamcheon in Byeollae-dong, the efforts went beyond aesthetics. By clearing water pathways, the volunteers improved safety and walkability. One resident noted, “The smell is gone, and the area looks much better—thank you for your hard work.”

Through these sustainable efforts, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group is evolving from a service provider into a “trusted neighbor” embedded in local communities.

Reference : https://vo.la/KjPxTPV