Volunteering in Qatar has evolved from activities largely centred on aid and organised visits into a broader culture of community participation, social responsibility and shared values, according to veteran volunteer and artist Mohammed Hassan al-Mohammadi.
Al-Mohammadi, ambassador for volunteer work with the “Gentle Touches” team at the Qatar Volunteer Centre, said that volunteering should not be viewed as a seasonal activity or something limited to specific events.
Rather, he considers it a form of “humanitarian and social behaviour and a daily practice” that has been part of his life for decades.
Al-Mohammadi began volunteering in 1976 and continues to participate in community activities, saying that sustained service is essential to meaningful engagement and lasting impact.
Among the activities closest to him are working with children and sharing folk tales and traditional stories.
He sees storytelling as an effective way to introduce younger generations to values, cultural traditions, and practical lessons in an engaging manner.
For al-Mohammadi, however, working with children goes beyond simply passing on information.
It should help identify their abilities, build their personalities, and give them the confidence to express their ideas.
Al-Mohammadi’s decades of volunteer work have also strengthened his ability to communicate with people from different age groups and backgrounds.
He believes volunteering benefits volunteers themselves, as helping others can create a sense of satisfaction, strengthen empathy, and deepen their connection with the wider community.
Al-Mohammadi stressed that meaningful volunteering requires continuity, preparation and respect for the people being served.
Volunteers should understand community needs, choose activities that match their skills, and approach each initiative with patience, responsibility, and commitment.
Such an approach, he said, can transform occasional participation into sustained civic engagement.
His experience also highlights the wider contribution volunteers can make to social cohesion in Qatar.
By sharing knowledge, engaging young people, and maintaining direct contact with communities, volunteers can complement institutional efforts and help foster a culture of mutual support.
For al-Mohammadi, the value of volunteering ultimately lies in making it a regular part of life rather than a temporary response to a particular occasion.
Through continued service, individuals can contribute to society while developing communication skills, confidence, and a stronger sense of belonging.