By ExCultiva Team
"The best way to cheer yourself is to try to cheer somebody else up." – Mark Twain
Some experiences stay with you long after they're over not because of what was given, but because of how they made you feel. Our recent CSR initiative, Compassion Circle, organised by the ExCultiva Team at Exel BPO, at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Angoda, was one of those experiences.
With a team of 15 volunteers, we set out with a simple purpose: to support the hospital while spending meaningful time with its patients. As part of the initiative, we donated a hospital bed and essential dry rations to the hospital's Vocational Training Unit. The unit plays an important role in rehabilitation by helping patients develop practical skills such as cooking, sewing, arts and crafts, and other vocational activities. These programmes help build confidence and encourage greater independence as they prepare to return to their families and communities.
While the donations were important, it was the time we spent together that made the biggest impact. It didn't take long for the room to fill with laughter, music, and conversation. What started as a casual sing-along soon became an unforgettable display of talent. One by one, patients stepped forward to sing, each bringing their own confidence and enthusiasm. Some danced, others clapped along, and before long the whole room was sharing in the moment. Their energy was infectious, and their joy reminded us how powerful simple moments of togetherness can be.
The fun continued with games of carrom and badminton. We expected a few friendly matches, but many of the patients amazed us with their skill and competitive spirit. Whether it was a carefully judged carrom shot or an exciting badminton rally, their focus and ability were impossible to miss. Every game was played with enthusiasm, making it a joy to take part in.
As the day went on, it became clear that Compassion Circle was about much more than making a donation. It was about being present. The conversations, shared laughter, and time spent together created a sense of connection that went beyond the roles of volunteer and patient. For a few hours, we were simply people enjoying each other's company.
The experience gave many of us a fresh perspective. Despite the challenges they face, the patients showed remarkable resilience, warmth, and an ability to find joy in everyday moments. Their positivity encouraged us to pause, reflect, and appreciate the things we often take for granted.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the day was that kindness doesn't always have to come in the form of grand gestures. Sometimes it's found in listening, sharing a laugh, playing a game, singing a song, or simply making someone feel seen and valued. Imagine the impact if each of us made a conscious effort to show a little kindness every day. Small acts have the power to strengthen communities, bring people closer together, and remind us of the importance of compassion. We arrived hoping to make a difference in their lives, but we left realizing they had made a difference in ours. Sometimes, the greatest impact isn't measured by what we give, but by what we take away from the experience.
Join us in creating meaningful change. To learn more about our CSR initiatives or support us on this journey, get in touch with the ExCultiva Team at Exel BPO.
Email: hr@exelsolutions.com | Website: www.exelbpo.com
Written by Sandali Abeygunawardena
