Over the past 18 years, Meng Fanduo of Changchun, Jilin province, spent most of his spare time volunteering — helping poverty-stricken families, caring for left-behind children and sending books to poor villages.

Meng, 40, started working for CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles Co in 2000 after completing a three-year military tour in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region.

"When I was in the military camp, my father mailed me the book Lei Feng's Diary and told me to be an upright man and always fulfill my duties and missions as a soldier," he said. "Deeply touched by the spirit of Lei Feng (1940-1962), a role model symbolizing selflessness, modesty and dedication, I keep the faith through volunteer service."

Since 2003, he has joined various volunteer associations in the city and actively participated in the activities they promote.

"I felt quite warm as I participated in the activities, especially when I saw the gratitude expressed in the eyes of those we helped," he said. "I will never stop helping others."

With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic at the beginning of 2020, Meng searched for protective equipment and disinfectant products and donated items valued at around 100,000 yuan ($15,540) to those who were working on the frontlines against virus, such as sanitation workers and police officers.

Meng also received great support from his family members.

"My wife is also a military officer, and she understands me," he said. "Sometimes when I volunteered I took my daughter and son with me, hoping that they would learn to help people through their own efforts.

"In the future, I will organize more forms of voluntary activities with other volunteers. I hope to encourage more people to participate in voluntary services, helping more people and families in need and passing on the spirit of dedication."