How Community Service Has Transformed in the Past 10 Years
General
Then vs. Now: A Decade of Change
10 Years Ago:
- Community projects were mostly run by churches or small volunteer groups.
- Awareness of social issues like poverty, youth programs, or mental health was more limited.
- There were fewer organized volunteer events and platforms.
- Most service efforts relied heavily on donations from abroad or NGOs.
Today:
- There’s an explosion of locally led foundations, like Fundacion pa Hende Muhe den Dificultad (supporting women in need) and Aruba Doet, the biggest volunteer event of the year.
- Schools are now deeply involved encouraging students to clock community service hours for graduation.
- Corporate volunteering has grown businesses like real estate agencies, banks, and even construction companies sponsor and participate in cleanup days, food drives, and youth mentorship.
- The government has become more active in supporting volunteerism with training, funding, and visibility for non-profits.
Why It Matters
Aruba may be small, but its heart is massive. The last 10 years have shown that when people come together whether it’s to paint a school, rescue street dogs, or build homes for struggling families the entire island gets stronger.
And the best part? Everyone’s invited to be part of it.
Whether you live here, invest here, or just love the island there’s a place for you in Aruba’s community story.
