Aire’s Journey: Volunteering with the Order of Malta in Estonia

Aire has become one of the key pillars among the volunteers of the Order of Malta in Estonia. As a dedicated and active woman, she stands out both by packing food parcels at the Food Bank and helping the elderly in care homes.

In this interview, she talks about why she volunteers and what she personally gains from participating in the Order’s projects.

What do you do in your daily life, and what is your background?

I work in an office on a daily basis. My field is finance and accounting. In addition to that, I make sure everything in the office is in order and that all necessary supplies are available.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of work?

I really enjoy travelling and organising events. I’m from Kehra, and we have a small theatre group there. We organise outdoor events and perform plays. I also enjoy dancing and cycling.

How did you first get involved with the Order of Malta?

I saw some posts on Facebook, which caught my interest, so I looked into it further. Then I registered as a volunteer. Someone got in touch with me, and my first project was with the Food Bank.

Did you have any previous experience in volunteering?

Yes, I’ve helped out at children’s Sunday school camps and worked as a volunteer in two different shops. In one of them for as long as eight years.

The Order of Malta is a charitable organisation with Christian roots, founded in the 11th century in Jerusalem. Did that raise any concerns for you?

Estonia is a secular society, and some people may have prejudices. Not at all. I’ve received a lot of help in my own life, and I try to give back and help others. I still have a lot to learn, of course. I was baptised as a child, but I don’t go to church.

You have quite a bit of volunteering experience. How would you rate the level of charitable work in Estonia?

I think charity work in Estonia is at a fairly good level. But there are still many people who don’t fully understand its meaning or who take advantage of others’ kindness. Some don’t realise that the joy of giving can be just as powerful as the joy of receiving.

I’ve noticed that some people believe that doing good must always bring some personal reward. But often it’s simply the smile or gratitude of the person you help that is the real reward — and that can be worth more than any material gift. None of us knows when we might need help ourselves.

What motivates you to volunteer? What has participating in Order of Malta projects given you in return?

I’ve had difficult times in life and received support from good people. Because of that, I understand the value of gratitude and joy from those you help.

For example, around Shrove Tuesday, I visited two care homes where we made traditional buns and crafted paper spinners. These are such simple things, yet it was amazing to see how excited and happy the elderly residents were to take part.

The Order of Malta has also given me many new friends and valuable contacts.

What kinds of projects would you like to take part in in the future?

I’d definitely like to get involved in projects related to children. For example, helping to organise childrens’ camps, dressing up in costume, and performing as a character in a play for them.

Interview by Lennart Käämer