Zhou Yi Tong tells us about her experience as a Big Sister, helping young, at-risk students make the transition to high school. Compassion for Migrant Children runs a number of volunteer programs for migrant kids, so check out the CMC website for more details on how you can help.

Is the situation for migrant children in China improving? I think their living conditions have improved in a way, with the help and support of some kind people and charity organizations. But it’s really difficult to make certain necessary fundamental changes, such as their parents’ economic status and education level. These parents can’t help their children in their studies, or help them create better lives. They often don’t even have enough time just to spend with their children.

So you decided to volunteer? Because I wanted to help them. It’s also a pleasure for me to help children who are in such a vulnerable group of society. I consider it my responsibility to society, to my nation, and as a university student to help. I also like children, and some of my relatives come from migrant families, so I feel a kinship with them. Although they don’t have many material things, they are very happy and optimistic, and their happiness warms my heart.

Tell us about Big Brother, Big Sister. Big Brother, Big Sister is a charity project organized by Compassion for Migrant Children. It started in 2010, and aims to help migrant children who are about to enter secondary school, and help them make this transition smoothly, keep their spirits up, and keep them involved [by pairing them with volunteers].

What are the kids most curious about? Each child is different. The child I’m helping now, who is going to enter middle school, is very curious and excited about what life will be like in high school. She’s also very interested in learning about dancing and singing.