What made you sign up for this volunteer activity?
It reminded me of my grandmother, so I decided to join.

Ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival, iST (Integrated Service Technology Inc.) once again partnered with the Old Five Old Foundation, inviting employees to volunteer and accompany elderly people living alone on a shopping trip for daily necessities.
 

From transportation and selecting items to keeping track of shopping expenses, iST volunteers provided one-on-one assistance throughout the outing. More importantly, they were there to walk alongside the seniors, listen to their stories, and simply spend time together.
 

Before the activity, many volunteers thought their role would mainly involve helping seniors shop and carry items. But once they stepped into the store together, they soon realized that what stayed with them most was not what they bought, but the conversations and moments shared along the way.
 

Some volunteers helped compare products and prices, while others chatted with the seniors about everyday life as they moved through the aisles. One colleague described the experience with a smile:

“It felt like I was choosing the best things for someone in my own family.”

That simple comment captured the spirit of the afternoon.
 

During the outing, some seniors also opened up about their lives and the family members who once helped them with everyday errands but were no longer by their side. As these personal stories unfolded, the volunteers found themselves deeply moved. What began as a volunteer activity gradually became an opportunity to listen, connect, and share meaningful moments with one another.
 

For us, it may have been just an ordinary afternoon. For some elderly people living alone, however, it was a rare opportunity to go out with someone by their side.
 

At the end of the activity, we asked our volunteers to describe the experience in one sentence:

“Even a small effort can bring so many smiles.”

“Give back to the society that has given to us.”

From charitable donations and material support to employees taking part in hands-on volunteer service, iST continues to engage with communities in different ways. We believe corporate social responsibility is not only about providing resources, but also about being present—turning care into meaningful action through genuine human connection.
 

Looking ahead, iST will continue working alongside our nonprofit partners and encouraging employees to participate in volunteer initiatives. Through every act of service, we hope to put our belief in giving back to society into practice and extend the impact of kindness to more people and communities.