Small repairs can make a meaningful difference in daily life - especially for seniors living alone.

In Gwangju, South Korea, a local volunteer initiative is focusing on exactly that.

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Gwangju Branch recently completed its 40th “DERAM” home repair volunteer activity, providing practical household support for vulnerable residents, including seniors living alone and families of national merit.

The “DERAM” home repair service was launched in August 2025 and has since supported 40 households across the Gwangju area. Rather than large-scale renovations, the programme focuses on small but essential repairs that improve safety and comfort in daily living.

During the most recent activity, volunteers assisted households by:

󠁯•󠁏󠁏 Replacing lighting fixtures

󠁯•󠁏󠁏 Repairing worn door handles

󠁯•󠁏󠁏 Inspecting plumbing systems

󠁯•󠁏󠁏 Installing safety handrails

These services were provided to help reduce everyday inconvenience and improve household safety, particularly for elderly residents.

In addition to technical assistance, volunteers spent time talking with residents, checking on their well-being, and sharing everyday conversations. According to the Gwangju Branch, emotional connection and presence are considered an important part of the service, especially for seniors who live alone.

One volunteer shared that although the repairs were small, being able to contribute to safety and comfort made the experience meaningful. Another student volunteer explained that while he initially joined to learn technical skills, interacting with elderly residents helped him better understand the true value of volunteering.

A resident who received assistance commented that seeing neighbours come directly to help made them feel the warmth of the community.

Now reaching its 40th household, the DERAM home repair service demonstrates how consistent, field-based volunteering can create lasting impact without large-scale events or visibility.