Supporting members during Ramadan
How to support members during the holy month of Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and a time of spiritual reflection, fasting, and charity for Muslims around the world. It is also a time for families to come together and celebrate their faith.
For girls and volunteers, Ramadan can be a time of both joy and challenges. On the one hand, they may enjoy the special activities and traditions that take place during this month. On the other hand, fasting for Ramadan needs preparation and understanding.
Read our tips to make guiding during Ramadan accessible to all.
Here are some tips on how to support girls at Ramadan:
Be patient and understanding. Remember that Ramadan is a time of spiritual growth, and it may take some time for girls to adjust to the fasting and other changes. Be patient with them and offer your support.
Meeting planning. During the month of Ramadan, if you have girls or volunteers who are fasting, try to avoid food or cooking based activities.
Encourage them to participate in the Ramadan activities. There are many special activities and traditions that take place during Ramadan. Encourage teenagers and children to participate in these activities, as they can help them feel connected to their faith. As a unit, you can learn about these traditions.
Help them to stay hydrated. Fasting can be dehydrating, so it is important for girls to drink plenty of fluids.
Make sure they get enough sleep. Fasting can be tiring, so it is important for girls to get enough sleep. If you have planned a residential event or camp, encourage them to go to bed early and wake up early for suhur (the pre-dawn meal).
Be mindful of their emotions. Ramadan can be an emotional time for girls, especially Guides and Rangers. Be mindful of their emotions and offer your support if they are feeling overwhelmed.
Communication is key Remember that parents and girls may not want to ask for changes in plans. Let parents know what you have planned for your meetings so that they can prepare for it.Here are some tips to support volunteers during Ramadan
Here are some tips to support volunteers during Ramadan
Be aware of the different ways that volunteers may observe Ramadan. Some volunteers may choose to fast from sunrise to sunset, while others may only fast during the day. Some volunteers may choose to pray five times a day, while others may only pray three times a day. Communicate with your volunteers about the different ways that they might choose to observe Ramadan.
Be flexible with meetings and activities. Volunteers may need to adjust their schedules during Ramadan to accommodate their religious observances. Be flexible and be willing to accommodate their needs.
Offer support and encouragement. Offer them your support and encouragement. Let them know that you are there for them and that you appreciate their hard work.
Energy levels. Ramadan can affect your energy in a few ways. Firstly, fasting during the day can lead to dehydration and fatigue. Second, the long hours of fasting can make it difficult to concentrate and focus. Third, the lack of food and water can also lead to headaches and dizziness. Look at your unit plans and chat to your volunteers about any activities that may not be suitable.
That 5 mile hike might need some extra thought!Celebrate Ramadan together. Ramadan is a time for Muslims to come together and celebrate their faith. Celebrate Ramadan with your volunteers by sharing food, stories, and traditions.
Growing guiding during Ramadan
Volunteering is important at Ramadan because it is a time of giving and charity.
Ramadan is good time to run a recruitment campaign in communities that may be observing Ramadan.
To join us please visit the Girlguiding website here
“Volunteering for Girlguiding Cymru at Ramadan is a great way to give back to your community and to help those who are celebrating Ramadan.
It is also a great way to engage with girls and to connect with other volunteers.”
