A Sunday Park Became a Starting Point for Many First Steps
In Sanpada, Navi Mumbai, a community of Goonj volunteers has quietly been building a culture of contribution, organising regular material collection camps every quarter. But in April this year, they chose to step out of the routine.
Instead of waiting for contributors to come to the drop-off point, they went out to walk, to talk, to listen.
Turning a Park into a Platform for Dignified Giving
On a warm Sunday, this group of spirited volunteers gathered in a public park with a straightforward goal: to engage their neighbours in a meaningful conversation about material giving and mindful contribution.
Armed with handmade posters and pamphlets, they moved through the park, speaking to morning walkers, families, and residents of nearby buildings.
Many had never heard of the Goonj camp happening just around the corner.
So they shared, not just logistics, but intent. Why giving matters. What material dignity looks like. How every old shirt or utensil could serve as a bridge of care for someone else.
The Response , More Than What Was Expected
Residents engaging with volunteers during the Sanpada awareness drive
What began as a walk of awareness soon turned into a movement of participation.
The impact was visible almost immediately, increased footfall at the collection camp, calls from nearby societies, and fresh interest from people who wanted to host or volunteer in future camps.
In a world where digital noise often drowns intent, this walk reminded everyone that direct dialogue still works. It builds trust. It builds community.
Quiet Acts, Powerful Ripples
This wasn’t a celebrity campaign or a viral video. It was a people-led act of connection, built on the belief that change often begins with conversations.
These volunteers showed that awareness isn’t always about amplification; sometimes, it’s about presence, patience, and persistence.
And in doing so, they reminded everyone around them: when you give your time and voice, you give much more than material.
Be a Part of Change
Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
