Shincheonji Volunteer Group Masan Branch (Director Chang-ho Seong) successfully held the 'Visiting Health Doctor, Five Senses Tour' activity for 20 people with disabilities (Korea Transportation Association of Persons with Disabilities, International Association for Cultural Exchange of Persons with Disabilities) in Changwon City on the 1st April.

As the first outdoor activity held after the pandemic, this event at Upo Wetland in Changnyeong was followed by a visit to the Ecology Centre, and activities such as a Taekwondo sports programme, calligraphy, aromatherapy, health check, visit to Yeonji Pond, and more.

The Masan branch carefully selected a location with convenient facilities and placed volunteers according to the characteristics of people with physical and mental disabilities resulting from road accidents and those who want cultural exchange. Through this and similar events, Shincheonji Volunteer Group is striving to promote unity in a divided society.

A representative of the Transportation Association of Persons with Disabilities said, “I was really frustrated that I couldn’t go outdoors during the coronavirus pandemic, because there were a lot of restrictions on volunteer activities. Even when I tried to use the disability transport service, there were many people waiting and it took a long time.”

Mr. A, who has a road accident disability, said, “I got to see Changnyeong Upo Wetland for the first time in my life. Before COVID-19, I used to go out now and again, but this was my first time at an indoor ecology centre, so there was a lot to see and a lot of reminiscing about the old days. Thank you so much for creating great memories for us.”

An official from the Masan branch said, “Today's weather was hotter than expected, so there were concerns about the physical endurance and health of the elderly. The roughly 3-month preparation period hasn't been an easy one, but it felt very worthwhile today seeing the beneficiaries in joyful and positive spirits. I hope there will be more events like this in the future so that we can continue to gather and unite.”

Meanwhile, Shincheonji Volunteer Group Masan Branch continues to conduct activities for the betterment of the local community through volunteer activities including, among others, the making of EM (Effective Micro-organism) Earthballs; river cleanup campaigns; 'More the Better' programme to promote emotional wellbeing through the donation of companion plants; Hair & Beauty Care for people with disabilities; blood donations, 'Wall Story' programme for the rejuvenation of dilapidated murals; and 'Visiting Health Doctor' programme, which provides free medical services to foreign workers, who are often caught in the medical blind spot, the elderly living alone, and the underprivileged.