Research conducted among volunteers of the Dr. Clown Foundation, which has been setting standards for "laughter therapy" in Poland for 25 years, shows that for 70% of those helping others, the main motivation is the belief that their efforts are meaningful.
"Our volunteers use the beneficial effects of laughter to distract patients from the reality of hospital life," explains Agata Bednarek, President of the Dr. Clown Foundation.
The organization currently has the largest team of volunteers in Poland, who are involved in helping those in need throughout the year.
With 500 professionally trained individuals, the Dr. Clown Foundation brings laughter therapy to children, seniors, and people with disabilities in 150 hospitals and specialized centers across 80 locations in the country, reaching nearly 41,000 patients annually.
Volunteers not only uplift patients' spirits but also encourage everyone to engage in joint activities. The Nord Walkers Jaworzno group from southern Poland recently organized a charity event combined with fun and a promotion of Nordic walking.
The foundation is currently recruiting. Dr. Clown requires its volunteers to be at least 18 years old, have current health checks, and provide a certificate of no criminal record, and offers training to prepare them for working with patients.
Source: Dr. Clown Foundation
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