Promise for Equal Daily Life: Shincheonji Volunteer Group Supports People with Disabilities

Through the "Pinky Promise (Saekisongarak) Volunteer Initiative," Volunteers Provide Regular Companionship, Housing Restoration, and Sports Event Support—Receiving 53 Awards & Commendations Since 2014 💬 "They didn't just cut my hair—sitting warm by my side and reassuring my nervous heart before surgery gave me immense strength." — Kim Deok-bae (60s, pseudonym), Beneficiary of Gyeongju Branch Haircut Outreach Under the 2026 National Day of Persons with Disabilities slogan, "An Ordinary Daily Life for Everyone," institutional support must be paired with close, compassionate local action. While the Korean government expands daytime care and independent living policies, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group has been bridging emotional and practical gaps through its long-running "Pinky Promise (Saekisongarak) Volunteer Initiative" —promising continuous, regular companionship rather than one-time events. In the first half of 2026 alone, 498 volunt...
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Hands of Hope Across Oceans: Gwangju Citizens Raise Emergency Funds for Colombian Earthquake Victims

Shincheonji Volunteer Group Gwangju Branch Partnered with Environmental Federation to Host "Colombia Hope Sharing Flea Market"—Donating 100% of Sales Proceeds to Honor Korean War Ties

💬 "During the Korean War, Colombia sent soldiers to fight for our nation. Remembering the aid we received, it's now our turn to offer strength to the people of Colombia."

— Official from Shincheonji Volunteer Group Gwangju Branch

On August 10, a devastating magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia along the Pacific "Ring of Fire," claiming over 330 lives and affecting more than 466,000 residents as homes, schools, and infrastructure collapsed.

In response, on September 12, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Gwangju Branch joined hands with the Central Federation for Global Environmental Conservation at Shinyong Bitgoeul Park in Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju, hosting the "Colombia Hope Sharing Flea Market" to raise urgent relief funds and spread civic awareness.

Honoring Historic Bonds: A Tribute to War Veterans

This international outreach carries deep historical significance. Colombia was the only South American nation to send combat troops to defend South Korea during the Korean War (1950–1953), suffering 213 military deaths and 448 injuries.

Driven by historical gratitude, 20 teams of citizens and volunteers gathered to sell donated clothing, shoes, toys, plants, and household items. Attendees traded goods, practiced resource recirculation, and honored the legacy of Colombian war heroes.

A participating high school student noted: "I learned through this event that Colombia sent soldiers to help us during the Korean War. Remembering that support, I want to send our warm hearts back to the Colombian people today."


Creative Upcycling, Performances, and Heartfelt Messages

The flea market transformed into an interactive cultural hub for local families and students:

  • Interactive Workshops: Visitors created knot bracelets and purchased lucky turtle crafts to support the cause.

  • Awareness & Performances: Educational booths briefed visitors on the earthquake damage, accompanied by mini cultural performances.

  • Wall of Hope: Citizens wrote warm messages of encouragement, such as "Stay strong, people of Colombia," "Always cheering for you from across the ocean," and "Please remember people on the other side of the world are praying for your recovery."


Direct Impact: 4.6 Million KRW Transferred for Relief

At the conclusion of the flea market, all 20 seller teams donated 100% of their total sales proceeds, raising approximately 4.6 million KRW (KRW 4,600,000).

The total funds were officially handed over through the Gwangju Branch to local representatives for Colombia, earmarked directly for local emergency aid, medical support, and community restoration in the affected earthquake zones.


📋 Relief Outreach Overview

CategoryOn-Site Action & Historical FactsCommunity & Global Impact
Historical ContextHonored Colombia’s Korean War contribution (213 fallen, 448 wounded soldiers).Educated youth on historical gratitude while fostering international solidarity.
Flea Market OutreachMobilized 20 seller teams offering recycled household goods, clothing, & crafts.Promoted resource recirculation and civic engagement in climate/disaster response.
Relief Fund DonatedDonated 100% of sales proceeds, totaling approx. 4.6M KRW.Provided direct emergency assistance to Colombia's earthquake recovery zones.

A Continuous Mission of Global Compassion

The Gwangju Branch representative emphasized that this initiative represents a long-term commitment to international neighborly love:

"We hope the sincerity of our sellers, volunteers, and citizens brings warm comfort and real hope to the suffering people of Colombia. We will continue our outreach to support neighbors both at home and abroad who are struggling with disasters and environmental crises."

Source: https://vo.la/UsWfpTH

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