Shincheonji Volunteer Group Andong Branch Wins Chairman’s Award at the Andong Volunteer Convention

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Andong Branch received the Chairman’s Award at the Andong Volunteer Convention for its continued community service and active participation in wildfire recovery efforts in Andong.


Shincheonji Volunteer Group Andong Branch receiving the Chairman’s Award at the 2025 Andong Volunteer Convention


Some acts of service are quiet, steady, and unseen—yet their impact lingers long after the work is done. At the 2025 Andong Volunteer Convention, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Andong Branch was formally recognized for precisely this kind of dedication.


Held annually, the Andong Volunteer Convention honors outstanding individuals and organizations that have contributed meaningfully to local development. This year, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Andong Branch was selected as a recipient of the Chairman’s Award from the Korea Association of Volunteer Centers, acknowledging its sustained commitment to community service and its remarkable efforts in wildfire recovery across the Andong region.


Recognition at the Andong Volunteer Convention

The Andong Volunteer Convention is a significant local event that selects around 20 exemplary volunteers and organizations each year. These honorees represent consistency, responsibility, and genuine care for the community.

In 2025, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Andong Branch stood out among many candidates due to its year-round volunteer activities and its proactive response to crisis situations—particularly during the large-scale wildfires that struck Andong earlier in the year.


Chairman’s Award from the Korea Association of Volunteer Centers

The Chairman’s Award is presented to groups that demonstrate measurable impact, organizational commitment, and public responsibility. The award recognizes not just one-time participation, but sustained efforts that contribute to long-term recovery and resilience.

For the Andong Branch, this award reflects years of consistent volunteer work rooted in the belief that local communities thrive when people step forward together.


Active Participation in 2025 Andong Wildfire Recovery

In March 2025, massive wildfires caused severe damage across Andong and surrounding areas. Homes, farmland, and cultural assets were affected, leaving many residents displaced and in urgent need of support.


45 Days of Continuous On-Site Support

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Andong Branch, together with approximately 400 volunteers from the Daegu–Gyeongbuk Union, took part in 45 consecutive days of recovery activities. Their work included:


Assisting displaced residents

Cleaning and restoring damaged residential areas

Supporting logistical operations at recovery sites


This sustained presence helped stabilize affected communities during a critical recovery period.


Protecting Cultural Heritage: Andong Jirye Arts Village

Beyond residential recovery, volunteers also contributed to restoring the nationally recognized cultural site Andong Jirye Arts Village, which had suffered damage during the wildfires.


Restoring More Than Buildings

Participation in restoration efforts highlighted a broader understanding of recovery—one that includes protecting cultural heritage and preserving shared history. Volunteers assisted with cleanup and restoration tasks to support the preservation of this important cultural space.


Ongoing Community Care Beyond Emergencies

While emergency recovery efforts drew attention, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Andong Branch is equally known for its consistent everyday service.


Regular Meal-Sharing for Vulnerable Neighbors

The branch continues to operate regular meal-sharing activities for socially vulnerable residents, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most—not only during crises, but throughout the year.

These initiatives contribute to improving local welfare and strengthening social connections within the community.


A Collective Achievement Built on Individual Dedication

Following the award ceremony, the branch leader emphasized that the recognition belongs to every volunteer who participated with sincerity and perseverance.


“This award is the result of each volunteer’s effort and dedication. We will continue working closely with the Andong Volunteer Center to provide practical help to our community.”


This message reflects the core philosophy of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group—that meaningful change is built through steady, collective action.


The Chairman’s Award presented to the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Andong Branch is more than a formal honor. It is recognition of long-term commitment, quiet resilience, and a shared belief in serving the community through action.


From wildfire recovery to cultural heritage protection and everyday support for vulnerable neighbors, the Andong Branch continues to show what responsible, consistent volunteering looks like in practice.


📎 Related News Article: Read more about the volunteer project here.


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