Blood donors are our Little Red Dot’s lifeline. With an ever-increasing demand for blood in our ageing society, Singapore relies on blood donation drives to maintain a steady supply. What we don’t want is to face an emergency and not have enough blood to go around to those who need it.

If you’ve never donated blood before and felt unsure about the process, we break it down for you, while also sharing unexpected things about blood donation in Singapore you may not know.

Where can I donate blood in Singapore?

There are 4 blood banks you can donate at: the Health Sciences Authority near Outram Park, Dhoby Ghaut, Woodlands, Westgate Tower, and One Punggol. There are also frequent community donation blood drives, which you can find more info about on the Red Cross website..

If you plan on visiting a blood bank, speed up the process by booking an appointment via the DonateBlood mobile app (App Store | Google Play). Do note that you’ll need to login using your Singpass.

What is the process of donating blood in Singapore?

Once you’ve arrived at any blood bank or community drive, register yourself with your IC, then fill in the questionnaire that goes through your medical, travel, and lifestyle history. Do note that you must be truthful in answering the questions, and knowingly providing false or misleading information is a serious offence. The penalty for lying on the questionnaire is up to 2 years of jail, up to $20,000 in fines, or both.

The blood bank needs to make sure that you’re of the right weight – 45kg and above – and your haemoglobin levels are high enough to donate blood. You’ll get a pin prick on your finger for this test, and you must score a minimum of 13.0g/dl for males and 12.5g/dl for females in order to proceed.

There’s one more screening with a medical professional to discuss your answers in the questionnaire. This isn’t just to ensure it’s safe for you to donate blood, but that your blood is safe for use for whoever might need it. You’ll get a final check on your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature then you’re ready to donate blood.

Get comfy in the chair then the nurse of medical aid will swab your arm to clean it and apply a local anaesthetic, so you’ll feel minimal discomfort while your blood is drawn. We’ll be honest – there’s a bit of a pinch when the needle is first inserted, but otherwise, it’s quite a painless process. You’ll sit for about 5-10 minutes to collect a pint of blood. If you’re making an apheresis donation, be prepared to sit for about 45 minutes.

When it’s over, you’ll be bandaged then moved over to a rest area where you’ll get snacks and drinks to bring back your energy levels. You should feel alright after 10 minutes, but alert someone if you still feel dizzy or lightheaded. You’ll be ready to donate again 12 weeks later for a blood donation or after 4 weeks for an apheresis donation.

What milestone awards are there for regular blood donors in Singapore?

Regular blood donors are recognised for their dedicated service to keeping blood banks constantly supplied. The first milestone award happens at your 5th and 10th donation, where you’ll be awarded with a medallion at any of the blood banks. Thereafter, the blood donation milestones are as follows:

These medals are given out to milestone winners at the annual Champion Blood Donor Recognition Ceremony on World Blood Donor Day, organised by the Red Cross.

If you plan on donating during your birth month, you’ll also be qualified for the Birthday Programme or HOPE Programme, where you’ll get a token of appreciation from the blood bank.

Am I eligible to donate blood?

To be a donor, you must be at least 16 years old and weigh at least 45 kg. Just note that if you’re below 18, you are still a minor and will need to seek your parent’s permission before you’re allowed to donate. On the flip side, the maximum age for first-time whole blood donors is 60, and you’re allowed to donate until you’re 65.

Before donating, ensure that you haven’t had a fever over the past 4 weeks and any infectious symptoms a week prior. If you do, sit it out and wait for the next one.

You can’t donate if you have cancer involving blood cells like leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Other ineligible conditions include severe heart disease, HIV, and severe asthma. For the full laundry list of requirements, check out the Health Sciences Authority website.

What are the different kinds of blood donations?

There are 2 main types of blood donations:

Are there any side effects when I donate blood?

Side effects are rare, but when it happens, it’s usually mild. Lightheadedness, slight nausea and bruising, as well as feeling faint are some examples. If this happens, seek medical attention at the blood bank immediately.

– Things you might not know about blood donations –

1. One blood donation can save up to 3 lives

Screenshot from: udconcepts via Youtube

If you thought one blood donation doesn’t contribute much, think again. Every time you donate, you’re giving away 1 unit of blood, which is then separated into 3 components: red blood cells, platelets, and plasma – all used for various treatments ranging from surgical operations to leukaemia. Ultimately, it goes on to save up to 3 lives, multiplying the impact of your donation.

While 1 donation is no doubt exponentially helpful, Singapore’s blood needs are much higher than you think. On average, 14 units of blood are needed every hour, of which roughly 85% is used for general surgeries and medicine. In fact, 1 unit of blood will be needed after the 6 minutes it takes for you to read this article!

2. Only 1.9% of the population are blood donors

Image credit: @sgredcross via Instagram

According to the Health Sciences Authority, only 1.9% of the population, or roughly 77,000 people, are blood donors as of 2023. And among the 1.9%? Only 39% are regular donors. Yikes. 

But numbers aside, it’s not all grim. After all, Singaporeans are known to rally behind every donation call by the Red Cross when stocks are low. The next time you are on the fence about donating, don’t assume that someone else will take the responsibility and instead, consider stepping up to donate.

3. You shouldn’t have caffeine before donating blood

Although a morning cup of coffee is routine for many people, it’s advised to stay away from caffeine on donation day. Caffeine has a mild diuretic effect, meaning that it’ll increase fluid loss and cause slight dehydration. And since blood donation already takes fluids away from your body, caffeine might contribute to dizziness and fatigue.

Caffeine also reportedly blocks iron formation, and you won’t be able to donate if your iron levels are too low.

4. Donating blood burns calories

While donating blood shouldn’t be your go-to method for losing weight, you’ll be happy to know that 1 donation burns about 650 calories. That’s the equivalent of a 30-minute, full-body HIIT workout. So you can skip the daily home workouts and just relax on the day of the donation.

*Note that this may not be scientifically proven and is not information that SRC or HSA typically shares with the public.

5. It can reduce the risk of heart disease & cancer

Screenshot from: The Smart Local via YouTube

Excess iron in the body can lead to a multitude of heart and liver diseases, cause premature ageing and increase the risk of cancer. Donating blood reduces these harmful iron stores and keeps your body less prone to such harmful diseases.

A study has also found that those who donated blood at least once a year had a 88% less risk of heart attacks. So on top of saving someone else’s life, you’d be helping your own too.

*Note that this may not be scientifically proven and is not information that SRC or HSA typically shares with the public.

6. It can reveal any hidden diseases you might have

Screenshot from: udconcepts via YouTube

The blood donation process also does a check on your health. Your blood will be tested for at least 5 diseases including syphilis, hepatitis, and Zika, and if found to be positive, you’ll be contacted by the blood bank. In the event you test positive for any one of the diseases, you can check on the Health Sciences Authority website to see whether you’ll still be eligible to donate after you’ve recovered.

Do note that a declaration process is conducted before each donation to weed out those that are only intending to use it as a “free” health checkup – which is never encouraged.

7. You can donate even if you’ve had a tattoo or body piercing

It’s a common myth that those with tattoos or body piercings are barred from blood donations, but that’s not true. As long as it was done with sterile or single-use needles, you’ll still be eligible. However, if it wasn’t or if you’re not sure, you’ll be asked to wait 12 months from the latest tattoo or body piercing procedure before donation – same goes for those that do acupuncture.

8. You can donate blood to yourself

Image credit: @sgredcross via Instagram

As strange as it may sound, you can actually donate blood to yourself in an “autologous donation”. If you’re scheduled for a surgery that requires a blood transfusion, you can book an appointment beforehand to donate blood for future-you. It’s usually recommended for patients with rare blood groups like AB-, and it’ll reduce the strain on the community supply.

9. Regular blood donors are recognised at a ceremony

Image credit: Singapore Red Cross via Facebook

The Singapore Red Cross and Health Sciences Authority host an annual ceremony near World Blood Donor Day in June to recognise the efforts of champion donors. For those aiming to become regular donors, the first milestone is 25 donations where you’ll receive a bronze medal.

The “Medal for Life” is the highest milestone you can reach, a special honour given to those who have donated over 200 times. Fun fact: as it stands, the record for most donations by a single person in Singapore is 345.

Bonus: You will be rewarded with snacks & refreshments afterwards

Image for illustration only.
Image credit: r/Blooddonors via Reddit

Medical procedures tend to leave us all feeling peckish, and blood donations are no exception. Luckily, there are stations loaded with snacks and refreshments after your appointment. You can look forward to treats like cookies, biscuits, sandwiches, and even pastries if you’re lucky. A hot cup of tea or Milo is usually served to get energy levels back up.

What should I do before & after donating blood?

Before the blood donation, drink plenty of water. Being well rested and avoiding any kind of junk food helps too. Avoid taking any aspirin or medication at least 48 hours before your appointment, especially for platelet donations. You can still donate even if you smoke and/or drink. Just make sure you’re not inebriated at the time of donation, and you’ll be fine.

Afterwards, drink plenty of water and refrain from drinking any alcohol over the next 24 hours. Consume iron-rich foods like tofu, red meat, and leafy veggies to ensure your body is in tip-top condition.

Donate blood in Singapore

Be it the declining number of donors or the fact that you can skip a day’s workout, there are many reasons why everyone in Singapore should do their part through blood donation. The process itself is a simple one and usually won’t require more than an hour of your time.

Before you go, take a quick 1-minute eligibility test to see if you’re cleared to donate. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions you’re concerned about, have travelled overseas recently or have any other enquiries, either check on the HSA website for more information or call 6220 0183.

Check out these other articles for volunteering opportunities:

• 35 places to volunteer in Singapore
• Beach cleanup groups in Singapore
• Volunteering date ideas in Singapore

Cover image adapted from: @sgredcross via Instagram, Samsung
Originally published on 2nd July 2020. Last updated by Syahiran Sean on 17th July 2024.

The post Guide To Blood Donation In SG: Where To Go, How To Check Eligibility & Why You Should Donate appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

How many of us volunteered in schools just to fulfil the minimum CIP requirements? Even though volunteering is no longer compulsory for some of us, here’s the catch: happy people give and gain more with volunteer work! Having volunteered with numerous beneficiaries, I’ve never regretted it – it is the simple knowledge that I’d made a difference which continues to motivate me.

Being pragmatic Singaporeans, we think that volunteering involves losing time and money, or that our schedules are too tight. But what about the intangible benefits? Depending on our commitment levels, skills, and interest, there is always a cause and an organisation we can help out at. 

To make volunteering as convenient as possible for you, here is a complete list of 35 places where you can make a difference, ordered by location.

– East –

1. Bethel Community Services – Lead fun activities for kids

Baking classes with kids.
Image credit: Bethel Community Services via Facebook

Bethel Community Services offers an array of schemes and assistance programmes for the alleviation of poverty, suffering, ignorance or ill health. Anyone in need of counselling can seek help at the services available, such as the Bethel Legal Clinic, Bethel Social Services, Bethel Student Care Centre etc. 

Are you a baker, artist, or singer? Volunteering can be fun if you do what you enjoy – conduct a baking workshop, mentor a younger one, organise art and craft classes, and even teach the students basic jewellery creation.

Address: Block 114, Aljunied Avenue 2, #03-75, Singapore 380114
Contact: 6744 7422

2. Singapore Anti Narcotics Association – Help former drug addicts

Image credit: SANA via Facebook

Singapore Anti Narcotics Association (SANA) was set up to prevent drug abuse in Singapore. Helping to remove tattoos and enrich families, SANA provides assistance through their anti-drug and rehabilitation programmes.

Innocent-looking yet deadly, we’ll never know if the people around us have fallen prey to it. Join in the fight against drugs – become a service facilitator, para counsellor, outreach ambassador, photographer or videographer!

Address: 2 Sengkang Square, #05-01 Sengkang Community Hub, Singapore 545025
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 67321122

3. Willing Hearts – Prep food for the needy

Help out in a soup kitchen.
Image credit: Willing Hearts Singapore via Facebook

Willing Hearts is a 100% volunteer-run soup kitchen which cooks and distributes about 3,000 meals to the needy every day. With the vision of improving the lives of the underprivileged through the provision of their ‘daily bread’, Willing Hearts guides them through rehabilitation and integration into society.

There are various roles: the preparation, collection or delivery of food. As we look forward to our next meal, there are others who rely on Willing Hearts for their basic staple food.

Address: 1 Lorong J Telok Kurau, Singapore 425792
Opening hours: 5am-5pm, Daily
Contact: 6476 5822

4. Institute of Mental Health – Encourage patients with fun activities

Image credit: Matchsticks of IMH via Facebook

Singapore’s psychiatric hospital, the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) offers a range of psychiatric, counselling and rehabilitative services for its patients. Unfortunately, there is a negative stigma attached to the name ‘IMH’, with many false misconceptions and generalisations about people with mental illnesses.

The only people that many patients see are their therapists, and undergoing treatment can be lonely without encouragement and motivation. Through your efforts, you can make them feel remembered and cared for, and build long-lasting relationships with them.

Be it conducting social and recreational activities such as outings and karaoke, or simply spending time with the patients, a simple gesture of kindness will go a long way in bringing joy. 

Address: Buangkok Green Medical Park, 10 Buangkok View, Singapore 539747
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily
Contact: 6389 2000

5. Singapore Association for the Deaf – Engage with deaf community

Image credit: Singapore Association for the Deaf via Facebook

We tend to take our 5 senses for granted, but can you imagine a world without music, let alone sound? The Singapore Association for the Deaf aims to help the deaf achieve a better quality of life, enabling them to integrate and contribute to society.

Through programmes such as financial assistance, counselling, and employment services, the deaf are empowered to lead independent lives.

Being blessed with the gift of hearing, put yourself in the shoes of your fellow counterparts – by learning sign language, building up their self-confidence, and raising awareness of the vibrancy of the deaf community. 

Address: 227 Mountbatten Road, Singapore 397998
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am-1pm, 2pm-5.30pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 6344 8274

6. Animal Shelters – Volunteer with furry & scaly friends

Image credit: @pawfect.woofoutloud via Instagram 

If you love furry creatures and don’t run away from them, volunteering at animal shelters would be just for you. Animal Lovers League and Oasis Second Chance Animal Shelter are 3 animal shelters located in the East. These shelters are home for abandoned animals, providing a safe haven to protect them from further trauma. 

Although you can’t get a pet due to mummy’s orders, channel your love by caring for the animals’ welfare, such as bathing and walking the dogs, or help out in fundraising and outreach. 

Oasis Second Chance Animal Shelter
Address: 59 Sungei Tengah Road, Block R, #01 33 The Animal Lodge, Singapore 699014

Animal Lovers League
Address: 59 Sungei Tengah Road, Block Q 01-29, Singapore 699014
Opening hours: 9am-6pm, Daily
Contact: 6755 1424

7. Yayasan Mendaki – Volunteer with SG’s oldest self-help groups

Image credit: Mendaki via Facebook

Yayasan Mendaki is one of Singapore’s pioneer self-help groups in Singapore, with subsidised schemes targeting the bottom 30% of the Malay population. Providing preventive and developmental programmes, Mendaki works closely with schools, mosques and organisations to empower the Malay community. 

When you volunteer, not only will you have the chance to mentor children and befriend them, you’ll even get to grow and maximise your potential through training and development programmes! Now, that’s killing two birds with one stone.

Address: 51 Kee Sun Avenue Singapore 457056
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm | Sat 8.30am-1pm (Closed on Sundays)
Contact: 6245 5710

8. St. Hilda’s Community Services – Caring for elderly’s needs

Image credit: St Hilda’s Community Services via Facebook

Door to door visits have highlighted the plight of the elderly, some of whom are bedridden, uninformed to the services available, or unable to monitor their chronic conditions. The volunteers at St Hilda’s Community Services Centre aim to link the residents up with the relevant services and allow volunteer doctors to attend to them. 

By volunteering to work with the elderly, you can provide handyman and cleaning services or work with the centre on special projects.

Address: Block 10 Jalan Batu #01-06, Singapore 431010
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm | Sat 9am-1pm (Closed on Sundays)
Contact: 6345 0054

– North –

9. Ang Mo Kio – Thye Hua Kwan Hospital – Accompany patients

Image credit: Ang Mo Kio – Thye Hua Kuan Hospital via Facebook

The Ang Mo Kio – Thye Hua Kwan Hospital is one of Singapore’s leading rehabilitation centres, with facilities such as in-patient care and a day rehabilitation centre. Patients undergo therapy, or harness the power of Traditional Chinese Medicine to hasten the healing process and regain their function.

As these patients undergo painful treatment, they’ll greatly appreciate your company and listening ear – build relationships with them by playing bingo, chatting with them and befriending them!

Address: 17 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 9, Singapore 569766
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily
Contact: 6450 6194

10. Bright Vision Hospital – Celebrate birthdays of elderly patients

Image credit: Bright Vision Hospital via Facebook

Bright Vision Hospital provides a variety of key services to its patients, including rehabilitative and palliative care. With a focus on the needy, sick and the elderly, patients require immediate to long-term care, recuperating from illnesses such as a stroke or fracture.

There are a myriad number of ways to spread cheer to the patients as they undergo treatment, such as being a befriender, celebrating birthdays, assisting in hair cutting and bringing them on sponsored trips around Singapore. Your presence will be their greatest present!

Address: 5 Lorong Napiri, Singapore 547530
Opening hours: 12pm-2pm, 5pm-8.30pm, Daily
Contact: 6248 5755

11. Tan Tock Seng Hospital – Befriend & assist patients at night

Image credit: Tan Tock Seng Hospital 

Unless you’re sick, a hospital is probably the last place you’d visit on a normal day, and patients feel the same way too. Staying overnight (or for several nights) in a clean, sterile environment away from family, they certainly won’t be feeling too happy – and that’s where volunteers like you come in.

Volunteers like you are invaluable in spreading joy and cheer around the ward, distracting the patients from their illnesses and pain. By being a befriender, night sitter, manning the hospital’s mobile library, and even running support groups – a small effort could make a patient’s hospital stay much happier.

Address: 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily
Contact: 6256 6011

12. ACRES – Rescue wild animals & advocate wildlife protection

Image credit: ACRES via Facebook

Driven by the belief that animals have feelings, the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES) advocates for animal rights. spearheading an animal protection movement in Asia and educating people on lifestyle choices which do not harm animals. 

Many exciting opportunities are available when you become a volunteer at ACRES: save wild animals, assist in animal care efforts, raise awareness on wildlife protection and even educate the public on everything about monkeys! It’s the opportunity to bring out the pet lover in us. 

Address: ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC), 91 Jalan Lekar, Singapore 698917
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily
Contact: 6581 2488

– South –

13. MINDS – Conduct fun activities for the intellectually disabled

Image credit: giving.sg

MINDS has grown to become one of Singapore’s largest non-governmental organisations for the intellectually disabled.

With special education schools and training centres to cater to their educational, vocational, social and welfare needs, MINDS aims to help them lead independent lives. MINDS has even started running a social enterprise, with the intellectually disabled learning how to bake, make handicraft and man a shop.

You have the power to change their lives – spend a day with them and teach them life skills, or bring them around Singapore! Regular volunteers can help out as assistant teachers or assistant training officers, while ad-hoc volunteers can organise outings.

Address: 800 Margaret Drive, MINDS Headquarters, Singapore 149310
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 6479 5655

14. Babes – Reach out to teen mums

Image credit: Babes Pregnancy Crisis Support Ltd via Facebook

With a focus on teenage pregnancy, Babes provides counselling and support to teenagers with unplanned pregnancies. Through a 24-hour hotline, teenagers can receive guidance in a friendly and non-threatening way, ensuring that they do not resort to drastic measures out of desperation. 

Address: 328 Sembawang Crescent, #01-02, Singapore 750328
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 6206 6641

15. Beyond Social Services – Help out less privileged kids

Image credit: EMRS

‘It takes a whole village to raise a child’. At Beyond Social Services, they do the hefty work of an entire village by implementing programmes to curb teenage delinquency, transforming them into responsible youths with respect for the law. With social, educational and community support programmes in place such as family strengthening and community integration, the teenagers are able to integrate back into society.

Utilise your special skills by taking up a variety of direct and indirect service opportunities:  be an adventure trainer, event organiser or pre-school teacher, or if you have the skills, an artist or a photographer.

Address: 26 Jalan Klinik, #01-42/52, Singapore 160026
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays
Contact: 6375 2940

16. TWC2 – Help migrant workers feel at home in Singapore

Image credit: Transient Workers Count Too

Migrant workers may make up 1/5 of our population, yet their presence is often shunned by us. One of the most vulnerable in society, migrant workers are easily exploited, with their circumstances beyond their control. 

Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2) advocates for the rights of these workers, promoting fair treatment and an improved policy framework through engagement with policymakers. TWC2 also provides assistance to workers, giving access to medical care and fair resolution of dispute cases. 

These are the very people who build our homes and keep them clean. With your help in outreach programmes or in the gathering of background information, one small effort can mean everything to a migrant worker.

Address: 180B Bencoolen Street, #09-01 The Bencoolen, Singapore 189648
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 6247 7001

– West –

17. Grace Orchard School – Volunteer to teach valuable skills

Image credit: Grace Orchard School via Facebook

Grace Orchard School is a voluntary welfare organisation which caters to children aged 7-18 years old. These children are diagnosed with Mild Intellectual Disability and Mild Autism Spectrum Disorders, with an IQ of 50-70.

Aiming to shape special lives for significance, the school offers educational pathways which lead to mainstream and vocational training schools, or open employment.

Here’s your chance to live out your ambition as a teacher – accompany the children on excursions, help out with co-curricular activities, or even initiate your own service-learning project.

Address: 170 West Coast Road, Singapore 127443
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 6561 9128

18. Touch Community Services – Serve all segments of the needy

Image credit: Run Society

Touch Community Services serves people of all ages in society, from children, youths, family, and elderly to people with special needs. Under each group, there are services catering specifically to them – for instance, cyber wellness workshops for youths, a day activity centre to help the intellectually disabled lead independent lives, and home services for the elderly. 

Volunteer at Touch Community Services to touch the lives of people. If you have a car, volunteer for their meal delivery programme ‘Meals on Wheels’; if not, befriend the elderly or mentor students. 

Address: Block 162 Bukit Merah Central, #05-3545, Singapore 150162
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm (Closed on Saturday and Sunday)
Contact:  6377 0122

19. Lions Befrienders – Spread cheer to seniors who live alone

Image credit: Lions Befrienders via Facebook

Lions Befrienders is one of Singapore’s largest direct service organisations, where befrienders conduct weekly home visits for elderly who have little or no family support.  Even though befriending alone seems insignificant, it helps to alleviate the loneliness and isolation of the seniors, providing emotional support to ensure that they age gracefully. 

Make friends with the elderly – one simple act can make a world of a difference. Regardless of whether you’re a social butterfly or an introvert, you can provide the much needed emotional support which they lack. After all, your weekly visits could be what they look forward to the most each week!

There are a myriad of volunteering opportunities at Lions Befrienders – choose from a selection of skill-based volunteering opportunities, accompany seniors to and fro their medical appointments, volunteer at centers and many more. 

Address: Block 130 Bukit Merah View, #01-358, Singapore 150130
Contact: 6375 8600

– Central –

20. Youth Corps Singapore – Volunteer to serve the community

Image credit: Youth Corps via Facebook

If you’re more comfortable volunteering with people your age, Youth Corps Singapore is the perfect opportunity for you to meet like-minded peers who are passionate about community service! Youth Corps gives you the training and mentorship to create a positive change in society, through the development of sustainable community projects.

Whether you’re looking to be a befriender to youths at risk or those with special needs, there are many varied and enriching volunteering experiences for you. As long as you’re between the ages of 16 to 35, you’re welcome to be part of the Youth Corps team.

Alternatively, head over to the Youth Corps Singapore’s Do Good Fest website where there’s something for everyone – be it tutoring kids, befriending the elderly, or cleaning up the beach. They have over 3,000 volunteering opportunities for you to pick and choose from, don’t say don’t have. 

Address: 113 Somerset Road, Singapore 238165
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, Daily
Contact: 6908 2500

21. Dover Park Hospice – Brighten the last years of terminal patients

Image credit: Dover Park Hospice via Facebook

As a non-profit organisation, Dover Park Hospice seeks to meet the needs – be it physical, emotional or spiritual – of patients who are going through their last phase in life. Their programmes of active and compassionate service have brought comfort and closure to terminally-ill patients and their families. 

As the patients live out their final moments in life, your simple presence and company will help to bring them immense comfort. Volunteer to help out in befriending, giving massages, going on outings and entertainment etc – because every moment matters.

Address: 10 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308436
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily
Contact: 6500 7272

22. KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital – Bring joy to children

Image credit: KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital via Facebook

Hospital stays are always dreary, but why not liven up the kids’ moods by volunteering and spreading some cheer in the ward at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital? You can assist in photography, teach skills such as balloon sculpting and magic tricks, or even become event assistants. 

If you’re able to commit as a regular volunteer, you can run clinic play sessions with the children at Specialist Outpatient Clinics, or even bring a mobile library through the hospital and engage the patients with storybooks!

Address: 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 229899
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily
Contact: 6225 5554

23. Singapore Children’s Society – Support vulnerable children

Image credit: OCBC Cycle

Singapore Children’s Society protects and nurtures children and youth of all races and religions. Established in 1952, its services have evolved to meet the changing needs of children. They also run Tinkle Friend – a national toll-free helpline (1800 2744 788) and chatline for all primary school-aged children in Singapore.

If you like listening to others voice their problems, you can even man the Tinkle Friend helpline. Depending on which centre you choose to volunteer at, the types of opportunities will differ – expect to be camp facilitators and tuition teachers.

Address: 210 Middle Road, #05-03, Singapore 188994
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm (Closed on Saturday and Sunday)
Contact: 6273 2010

24. YMCA – Serve partner welfare organisations

Image credit: YMCA Singapore via Facebook

A movement started in 1844 in London, Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) is a volunteer-based Christian organisation that serves all members of society through programmes to nurture their body, spirit, and mind. 

Whether you’re interested in going for outings, reading to others, movies, photography, or outdoor activities, there’ll definitely be an opportunity to pursue your interest and volunteer for a good cause.

Address: 1 Orchard Road, Singapore 238824
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 6336 6000

25. Singapore After-Care Association – Support ex-offenders

Image credit: Singapore After-Care Association via Facebook

The Singapore After-Care Association (SACA) is an after-care agency for discharged offenders and their families. With the stigma and challenges faced by ex-offenders in gaining employment, as well as emotional and financial challenges families face, SACA provides welfare and rehabilitation services to reintegrate ex-offenders into society.

Just like the theme of redemption in Les Miserables, help ex-offenders reintegrate into society by listening to their problems. If you’re at least 23 years old, have a good listening ear, and want to help ex-offenders move forward in life, this is for you.

Address: 81 Dunlop Street, Singapore 209408
Opening hours: Mon-Thu 8.30am-6pm | Fri 8.30am-5.30am (Closed Saturday and Sunday)
Contact: 6294 2350

26. RDA – Work with horses to rehab those with disabilities

Image credit: RDA Singapore via Facebook

Many have heard of art therapy, but horse-riding therapy? At Riding for the Disabled Association of Singapore (RDA), free horse-riding therapy is provided for disabled children and adults. 

The benefits of horse-riding therapy are actually numerous: besides physical therapy and cognitive improvement, the special bond formed with the horse can have an uplifting effect on the person’s life. RDA works with people of all disabilities – physical, learning etc – increasing their confidence, balance, respiration and motor skills. 

If you’re never sat on a horse before, don’t worry – no prior experience with horses is required. As a sidewalker, you’ll get to walk beside the horse and guide the rider to complete certain tasks, all determined by the instructor.

Address: 5 Jalan Mashhor, Singapore 299174
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 8am-6.30pm (Closed on Sundays)
Contact: 6250 0176

27. SAVH – Help the visually handicapped

Image credit: Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped via Facebook

The Singapore Association for the Visually Handicapped (SAVH) is an association for the visually handicapped, helping them to gain new skills and independence to integrate into society. 

Blessed with the gift of sight, you can do so much to help the visually handicapped – assist in SAVH’s programmes, teach computer skills, be a volunteer van driver, or utilise your skills to organise your own activities. 

Address: 47 Toa Payoh Rise, Singapore 298104
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 6251 4331

28. HOME – Support vulnerable migrant workers suffering from abuse

Image credit: HOME via Facebook

Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics HOME runs a shelter for migrant workers who seek to escape from their abusive employers, and the statistics are shocking – of the 60 domestic workers staying with them, a third have been physically or sexually abused. 

Providing humanitarian services, financial services, legal clinics and a women’s shelter etc, HOME aims to bring justice to migrant workers, empower them and enable them to escape from their plight. 

At HOME, you can be more than a volunteer, but a defender of human rights for the marginalised. Volunteer as English teachers, befrienders, fundraisers and writers etc!

Address: 304 Orchard Road, #06-22 Lucky Plaza, Singapore 238863
Contact: 6341 5525

29. Hope Centre – Provide meals & tuition to less-privileged

Image credit: Hope Centre via Facebook

Hope Centre is a non-profit voluntary welfare organisation which aims to improve the wellbeing of all people. Hope Centre also offers tuition classes for underprivileged children.

You can give these people hope as well – volunteer to befriend the elderly though morning exercise, personal interaction and games, or tutor primary school students with their homework. It is only through the efforts of volunteers like you that Hope Centre can live up to its name!

Address: 806 King George’s Avenue, #03-222, Singapore 200806
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am-5.30pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 6909 5244

30. SINDA – Volunteer to help the Indian community

Image credit: Rafflesian Times

Aimed to uplift the Indian community, Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA) is a self-help group with its key thrusts in 3 main areas: education, family services and active collaboration.

Originally formed to provide academic assistance to Indian students, besides tuition alone, SINDA also reaches out to families in need of assistance and helps to develop leadership skills in youth. 

With before and after school care, numeracy and literacy programmes, and mentorship services, SINDA aims to strengthen families and build a resilient Indian community. You can choose between children, youths or adults – give tuition, participate in reading programmes, mentor youths, befriend families or even conduct ad-hoc projects.

Address: 1 Beatty Road, Singapore 209943
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 1800 295 3333

– Others –

31. Blood Drives – Save lives by donating blood

Image credit: Singapore Red Cross

Many of us grapple with our fear of blood and needles, but with the vast benefits of blood donation, those fears deserve to be confronted. For every blood donation, you get to save up to three lives, receive a free health checkup, reduce your risk of heart disease and burn calories. Those few minutes of your time could add a lifetime of minutes to others!

The Singapore Red Cross Society has permanent blood banks at HSA, Dhoby Ghaut, Woodlands and Westgate, for those who live further afield, there are Bloodmobiles travelling around Singapore too. 

Address: 15 Penang Lane, Red Cross House, Singapore 238486
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 6664 0500

32. Giving.sg – Discover volunteering opportunities

Image credit: giving.sg via Facebook

Giving.sg is a handy web portal that lists ongoing and future opportunities to volunteer Singapore. If you’re busy and prefer volunteering on an ad-hoc basis, or if you’re unsure of which organisation you’d like to fully commit to, the Giving.sg platform is a great way to get started and find the opportunity that perfectly fits you. 

Using the calendar function, you can find upcoming opportunities like karaoke sessions at Bright Vision Hospital or door-knocking with Beyond Social Services. With many different events at different timings, there’ll surely be one which fits your needs and schedule.

33. National Library Board – Spread the love of reading to kids

Image credit: kidsREAD via Facebook

We know that the library is more than a place for reading – many of us would have seen exhibitions, competitions or activities going on. But who are the people behind each event? If you love the library, volunteer at your favourite place: help out with workshops, be event assistants, or simply aid in decoration and housekeeping.

The library also runs its kidsREAD programme, where for an hour each week, volunteers can read books to underprivileged children. As you read aloud and watch as the children hunger for every word, you’ll know that you’ve made a difference. 

34. Make-A-Wish Foundation – Fulfill dreams of sick kids

Image credit: Make-A-Wish Foundation via Facebook

Make-A-Wish Foundation grants the wishes of children with life-threatening conditions, giving them memories to cherish for life. Since 2003, the Singapore affiliate has granted over 900 wishes. 

If you’d like to play a part in granting wishes, you can either sign up as a general volunteer or a wish granter. General volunteers use their skills and expertise to help in the office, while wish granters are involved in the wish-granting journey of a child.

Besides that, other alternatives include holding fundraising events, in-kind donations that grant the child’s wishes, and monetary donations. 

Address: 1 Coleman Street, #04-18 The Adelphi, Singapore 179803
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Contact: 6334 9474

35. ONE Singapore – Conquer UN development goals together

Image credit: Global Call Against Poverty

ONE Singapore aims to eradicate poverty through the raising of awareness and taking concrete actions. In support of the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals, such as the promotion of gender equality and reduction of child mortality, ONE Singapore also partners corporate and non-profit organisations in a variety of projects.

Change the world one small step at a time, develop your skills and meet new people when you volunteer with ONE Singapore. Help out in promotion, be a volunteer coordinator, a writer, or even in admin and technical support!

Address: 218 Pandan Loop, Singapore 128408

Tips on volunteering in Singapore

Useful sites & apps to discover volunteering opportunities in Singapore

Finding a meaningful volunteer opportunity that is something you’re passionate about is hard enough – let alone finding one that is close by and helps you grow. 

With platforms like giving.sg and volunteer.sg, it’s now much easier to discover more areas of service. You can sort volunteer activities by distance from your house by keying in your postal code on giving.sg, or search for activities on specific dates on volunteer.sg.

For those on the go, the SG Cares app also allows you to quickly view nearby volunteer opportunities, and narrow them down according to your interest.

The SG Cares mobile app allows you to conveniently explore opportunities by interest and by area to volunteer in Singapore.
Image adapted from: SG Cares 

Learn new skills while volunteering

A sign language course conducted by Touch Community Services.
Image credit: Touch Community Services

Volunteering is even more meaningful when you find ways to grow your skills. Not only would you be able to better contribute to society – you’ll also be able to put those event management skills to good use at your company’s next D&D!

If you’re keen on learning languages, Viriya Community Services has free Hokkien and Cantonese courses that will help you better engage senior citizens. Touch Community Services also offers a free basic sign language course that would be a great gateway into volunteering with the deaf. 

For valuable interpersonal skills, the Social Service Institute provides courses to help volunteers better serve youth, seniors, and the disabled, while the Samaritans of Singapore and AWARE offer counselling courses.

Places to volunteer in Singapore

As able-bodied individuals, we can do our part for society by gathering our friends and volunteering together. Not only are we reaching out to our fellow Singaporeans, but we are also spending quality time wisely with our friends. If the above places aren’t what you’re looking for, you can visit the nearest community centre, or even your school, church, or temple. 

Volunteering is more fun when you’re bonding, learning, and growing with people you know, so if you’re hesitant about volunteering alone, call a friend along. 

For more on volunteering in Singapore:

• Unconventional volunteering activities in Singapore
• Kid-friendly places to volunteer at in Singapore
• Ex-banker left his job to help out in a youth volunteer organisation

Cover image adapted from: Lions Befrienders via Facebook, @pawfect.woofoutloud via Instagram, Youth Corps via Facebook, HOME via Facebook.
Original article published by Yau Ya Kei on 1st Mar 2014. Last updated by Gracelyn Lim on 15th May 2023.

The post 35 Places To Volunteer In Singapore & Give Back To Society, Sorted By Region appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

With Valentine’s day just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about date activities for you and bae or you and the besties. Even better if it’s an activity that’s memorable and will make you feel good – like helping those who are less fortunate. Well, Giving.sg has 5 great volunteering date ideas for you that’ll not only make your Vday but also others’ as well. 

As if that wasn’t great enough, you even stand a chance to win a limited edition set of adorable Singa the Kindness Lion plushies just by posting about your volunteering date activities on either Instagram or TikTok. Here are some of the volunteering opportunities available this Valentine’s Day. 

1. Promote Assistance Dogs for the Disabled

Image credit: K9 Assistance Ltd Singapore

K9Assistance helps to partner disabled individuals with assistance dogs. Assistance dogs provide help for people with disabilities like those who are hard of hearing and seeing, people who are handicapped, and even those with autism. A furry little helper can go a long way in relieving the effort these individuals need for daily tasks.

Image credit: K9 Assistance Ltd Singapore

There are many ways you can help give visibility to these assistance dogs – aspiring influencers can create social media content such as videos which K9 Assistance can then use to promote their worthy cause and educate others on the purpose of assistance dogs. 

Image credit: K9 Assistance Ltd Singapore

Another way in which you can help is to volunteer your time in K9Assistance’s outreach events. These events help to educate organisations and the general public about how useful assistance dogs are.

If you don’t, however, have the time or artistic skills to volunteer, you can also create a fundraiser or make a donation to help K9Assistance in their efforts.

Volunteer to promote assistance dogs for K9Assistance.

2. Create infographics for HealthServe

Image credit: HealthServe

Let’s get digital. For all the creative couples out there, this one’s for you. HealthServe is a charity that functions to help migrant workers in Singapore with their mental and physical health. If you have an expertise in digital design and production in infographics, put those skills to noble use with this virtual volunteering opportunity. 

Image adapted from: HealthServe 

Get those creative juices flowing to produce at least 4-6 infographics a month about HealthServe’s services based on the information they will provide to you. You will also work with volunteer facilitators to guide you through the process and help you meet deadlines. 

Volunteer as an infographic designer for HealthServe.

3. Instil the joy of learning in young children

Image credit: New Life Stories 

If you love spending time with children, you’ll want to check out becoming a Learning Friend with New Life Stories. This entails teaching young children aged 3-12 years old how to read in English. You’ll also get the opportunity to make learning a fun experience for them through conversations, storytelling, games, and activities. 

Image credit: New Life Stories 

The aim is not only to help to improve their English language and literacy skills, but also improve their confidence and prepare them for interactions once they head off for school. Here’s your chance to make an impact on a child’s development and develop a meaningful bond with them this Valentine’s day.

Volunteer as a Learning Friend for New Life Stories.

4. Encourage senior citizens to be active through games

Image credit: Project Kalon

This isn’t like your regular under-the-block Tai Chi. Project Kalon encourages senior citizens to be active and interact with their peers through fun games such as Petanque. Petanque is a team game where players form a large circle and take turns throwing mini metal balls towards a wooden ball in the middle. The player that throws the ball closest to the wooden ball wins. 

Image credit: Project Kalon

With this volunteering opportunity, all you have to do is take the time out to befriend senior citizens in senior centres and community clubs and play a friendly game of Petanque with them. Nothing like some junior-senior bonding through sports to bring out their youthful side.  

Volunteer to help senior citizens be active with Project Kalon.

5. Provide guidance to senior citizens learning digital mobile skills

Image credit: Sathya Sai Social Service

If you’ve ever had to help your parents or grandparents with their smartphones, you’ll definitely know how to be a Digital Clinic Ambassador for Sathya Sai Social Service.

These digital Clinics are in place to help teach senior citizens how to use their mobile phones. This includes navigating apps that facilitate cashless payments as well as exploring social media apps such as Facebook – things that we do daily without batting an eyelid.

Image credit: Sathya Sai Social Service – 4S

Volunteer your time and become a Digital Clinic Ambassador to help facilitate the learning process for the elderly for whom smartphones can be tough to understand and use. Apart from befriending them, you’ll also be tasked with providing one-to-one assistance and answering their questions whenever necessary. 

Volunteer to be a Digital Clinic Ambassador for Sathya Sai Social Service.

Volunteer with your loved ones as a date idea this Valentine’s Day

These are just a few of the many ways you can contribute your time and skills to helping others in our community. The possibilities are endless.

Designed in collaboration with Singapore Kindness Movement.
Image credit: National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre

While you and bae are on your volunteering date, share your experience on your social media for a chance to win a limited edition set of Singa the Kindness Lion plushies as an extra keepsake of your volunteering adventure. These plushies are one of a kind, designed exclusively for Valentine’s Day to promote kindness and volunteerism.

The contest runs from 14th February to 14th March 2023 on Instagram and TikTok. Simply be one of the first 100 to share with others on stories, reels or posts how you’ve been helping to uplift those in our community this Valentine’s Day. Be sure to use the hashtag #begreaterinthecityofgood and tag @cityofgoodsg as well as @kindnesssg.

So, make a date with a loved one, friends, family or even colleagues and classmates by volunteering through Giving.sg.

Sign up to volunteer at Giving.sg 

This post was brought to you by the National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre.
Cover image adapted from: Sathya Sai Social Service, K9 Assistance Ltd Singapore

The post 5 Wholesome Date Ideas In Singapore For Couples Who Wanna Give Back Together In 2023 appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

You may not believe in Santa anymore but you do have the power to fulfil the Xmas wishes of others. This festive season, your gift giving could make a difference for the underprivileged patients at Home Nursing Foundation (HNF).

HNF provides medical and care services to patients in the comfort of their home, tending to those with disabilities and chronic illnesses such as cancer and stroke. As part of the annual Grant a Wish campaign, this year the beneficiaries have wished for nothing fancy – just the basics to keep them going. Here’s how you can help.

Donate “wishes” like daily necessities & vouchers

Image credit: Home Nursing Foundation

While we worry about inflation increasing the cost of our bubble teas and chicken rice, there are those who worry if they can afford daily essentials such as clothes, shoes or a new mattress. Spare some cash to help each other out through these trying times. 

Some of the gifts from last year’s Grant a Wish included water heaters, medical supplies, and supermarket vouchers. It might be something we glaze over but it means a lot to the beneficiaries.

Grocery runs are a monthly chore for us but to some, it is a privilege. Gift vouchers, though a piece of paper, help alleviate financial burdens so they can get sufficient necessities like food and household items.

Image credit: Home Nursing Foundation

Besides gifts, your donations also go into helping patients offset their medical bills. Around 90% of HNF’s homecare patients receive financial aid yet some still face difficulties paying for long-term medical homecare. With your donation, you can help lighten this financial burden.

HNF aids patients with relieving cost pressures thanks to charity donations. They also bring in social workers to provide practical help and emotional support to further care for them.

Image credit: Home Nursing Foundation

You can contribute to this cause by donating securely via Giving.sg. Just $50 can cover the cost of 2 hours worth of home personal care sessions. They include helping with daily chores and maintaining personal hygiene for homebound patients.

Larger amounts go into providing therapy and medical visits for the patients. Every dollar counts so you can input any amount of donation to support the cause.

Sign up as a volunteer over the holiday season

Image credit: Home Nursing Foundation

If you have some time to spare or want to spend your AL meaningfully, you can also volunteer to distribute the gifts to the beneficiaries. There is no need to hop down chimneys like Santa to deliver presents. 

Go door to door and interact with the recipients who look forward to your presence and spending some time together during this festive season. To participate, indicate your interest in the HNF Grant a Wish gift distribution volunteer form.

Grant a Wish this Xmas with the Home Nursing Foundation

Image credit: Home Nursing Foundation

Make this festive season more meaningful and put yourself on Santa’s good list. Whether you donate money or time, it will make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate. The online donation drive is ongoing until 31st December 2022 with the aim of raising $60,000 worth of funds.

Proceeds will go to granting the wishes of underprivileged patients under HNF. With your donation, they can receive a much-needed gift that brings a smile to their faces and a boost to their morale. Eligible donations will receive a 250% tax deduction too.

Donate to Grant a Wish 2022 or find out more

This post was brought to you by the Home Nursing Foundation.
Cover image adapted from: Home Nursing Foundation

The post How You Can Help Underprivileged Patients This Xmas, With Gifts As Basic As Radios & Clothes appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

We’re now knee deep into the year end festivities, with frosty decorations everywhere and Christmas carols on blast. As we spread the festive cheer, it’s also the perfect time to celebrate the joys of giving. 

From sustainable gifting to helping animals in need, here are 7 ways you can do good this Christmas time. You can bet that they’re just as satisfying as receiving presents that you’ve wished hard for.

1. Support local & home bakeries

Image credit: @tiposhomebakes

Food is the heart of every party, and hosts can switch things up by getting desserts from local shops that donate to charity – such as Flor Patisserie who work with Chen Su Lan Methodist Children’s Home to sponsor birthday cakes to the underprivileged children. You can also support small home bakeries like @tiposhomebakes for trendy mini bento cakes. 

Image credit: @galangalkitchen

Those looking for more substantial options can go for local home kitchens to supply the grub for your gatherings. For example, you can get traditional dishes such as kueh pie tee or dry laksa from @galangalkitchen that’ll leave your guests happy with a satisfied belly. 

2. Reuse old materials for present wrapping

Image credit: Freepik

Gift giving is no doubt a huge part of the festive season. Before you head out to the nearby crafts store to get gift wrapping supplies, look into your cupboards for items that can be reused. Trust me, you don’t need to be Einstein to come up with easy upcycling ideas.  

One easy way would be upcycling paper bags as wrapping paper. These bags typically come with unprinted insides, so all you have to do is cut the sides of the bag to get a flat piece of paper. Lay your gift in the middle and fold the corners of the bag so it completely covers your gift. If you have any old hair ties lying around, reuse them as ribbons to seal your present. 

3. Thrift a sustainable Christmas wardrobe

Let’s be real – parties are an excuse to shop for new ‘fits. Instead of hitting up your usual fast fashion stores, get your “new” clothes from thrift stores such as Cherry Thrift Shop and Ashitagaaru instead. And yes, these are both conveniently located in Peninsula Plaza. Not only will you get a totes unique outfit, but you’ll also save tonnes of money. 

4. Be a personal shopper for beneficiaries

If shopping is your cardio, you’ll want to check out SAFRA’s Let’s Gift For A Reason 2022, one of the SG Cares Giving Week’s Giving Hubs. Choose from the wishes of less privileged children displayed at any SAFRA club, and purchase the respective gifts. Then wrap them up, and submit the gifts to the same SAFRA club by 12th December. 

Busy bees who don’t have the time to shop can show support to low-income families and elderly by purchasing a care bag at $20 too. The contents of the bag include daily essentials such as rice and vermicelli. 

NTUC FairPrice is a member of the Company of Good.
Image credit: NVPC

Or, check out the Boys’ Brigade Share-A-Gift Donation Booths from now till 31st December. Physical donation booths will be set up at AMK and Jurong Point’s FairPrice, and Bedok Mall and Thomson Plaza’s FairPrice Finest. Simply scan the QR codes available to make cash donations, or purchase food hampers that will be gifted to select beneficiaries. 

5. Shop for presents from fundraising brands

Image credit: GRAIN

From 1st-7th December, there will be various activities happening as part of SG Cares Giving Week’s Everyday Giving which you can take part in and give back to society. You can also shop from these brands that are members of the Company of Good, who will be portioning their profits to help those in need. 

Help GRAIN in providing meals to underprivileged children and seniors by donating to the Give Store. You’ll get a small token of appreciation in return – think a hole puncher or a spatula. 

2019’s Giving Tree filled with wishes from the beneficiaries.
Image credit: Motherswork Baby & Kids

There’s also Motherswork’s Giving Tree initiative where your purchased shopping mall or Motherswork vouchers will go to the beneficiaries from HCSA Community Services, Babes Pregnancy Crisis Support and the Down Syndrome Association (Singapore).

The silicone catch-bib from hello little chompers (left) and desk calendar from The Commandment Co. (right).
Image adapted from: hello little chompers, The Commandment Co.

Prep for 2023 by getting a desk calendar from The Commandment Co. as they’ll be donating 10% of their profit from the Thrive and Flourish calendars to Homeless Hearts of Singapore. Or, get your baby essentials from hello little chompers, who are pledging a dollar to the School Goodie Bag programme by Food from the Heart for every piece of baby mealware sold. 

6. Be an animal benefactor

For those looking for a furbaby to call your own, consider adopting instead of shopping from breeders. Places such as Cat Welfare Society have a slew of cats waiting to go to their forever homes. But of course, with every pet comes a lifetime of responsibility – so only commit to this if you’re able to. 

Even if you don’t have the capacity to house a pet, you can also contribute by donating instead. Some animal welfare groups include ACRES that helps local wildlife, and Animal Lovers League that takes in both cats and dogs. 

7. Donate blood at a blood donation drive

Image credit: The Smart Local

This one might make some queasy. But if you’re looking for something different to do this Christmas, give the gift of life and donate your blood. 

There are upcoming blood donation drives happening at Community Centres (CC) such as Senja-Cashew CC, or you can catch the Bloodmobile drive by the Singapore Red Cross. All you have to do is ensure that you’re a valid donor, head down to your preferred site and sign up. 

Do good this Christmas 2022

Good deeds often come with the connotation of having to go the extra mile. But with ongoing events such as SG Cares Giving Week, held in support of Forward SG and jointly organised by National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre, National Council of Social Service, and SG Cares Office, it’s plenty easy to inject a lil’ altruism into our Christmas celebrations. 

And if you still need some motivation, you can also snag exclusive SG Cares Giving Week x Sharity Plushies. Simply complete all 3 activities listed on the SG Cares Giving Week website from now till 18th December to redeem. You can follow their Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates too.

Learn more about SG Cares Giving Week

This post was brought to you by SG Cares Giving Week.
Cover image adapted from: Flor Patisserie, Freepik

The post 7 Easy Ways To Score Brownie Points With Santa This Christmas Season So You’ll Be On The Nice List appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

One of Singapore’s most iconic animals is the orangutan Ah Meng. While she has since crossed the rainbow road, her status as Singapore Zoo’s poster girl and all-round loveable nature made us all understand how important it is to preserve the natural habitat of orangutans. 

Come 2022, you can do your part for these wholesome primates by adopting an orangutan from Sarawak from now till 31st March 2022. On top of supporting rehabilitation and conservation efforts by the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, you’ll also get exclusive gifts as a thank you.

Adopt an orangutan at just $55

Baby Ooooha
Image credit: Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

All it’d cost you to adopt an orangutan from the Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is just a one-time fee of $55. That’s it. There are no hidden subscription fees that you’ll have to fork out months down the road. You can even use PayNow to make your adoption payment. We stan 2022 digital efficiency!

In return for your kindness, you’ll receive a gift pack with a thank you letter from the 2-year-old Ooooha plus a limited-edition lanyard and button.

All you have to do is go to the adoption page and fill in your name, contact number, email address, and mailing address. All of the proceeds will also go towards the Sarawak Forestry Corporation to aid in their conservation and rehabilitation efforts.

How the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre cares for orangutans in Sarawak

Image credit: Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

The Semenggoh Wildlife Centre was first established back in 1975 as a safe haven for injured, orphaned, and captive orangutans. Today, it is a sanctuary that cares for over 25 orangutans, not just Ooooha. But make no mistake, the orangutans in their care are all free to roam the forests, and they only return to the centre during their feeding times. 

While the Semenggoh Nature Reserve has over 653 hectares of forest, that’s still not enough wild food for all the orangutans who call the reserve home. That’s why the Wildlife Centre needs all the help it can get to supplement the diet of the endangered species and their large appetites.

Food supply for the resident orangutans
Image credit: Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

They’re fed twice every day – at 9AM and 3PM – and while their diet consists primarily of fruits, orangutans are also known to eat insects, small vertebrae, and sometimes even bird eggs.

Adopt an orangutan and save their natural habitat

Image credit: Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

Adopting a pet is a novel act, but you can go the extra mile by adopting an orangutan like Ooooha to help the endangered animals in need. Not only would you be playing a part to conserve their natural habitat in Sarawak, but you’ll be helping to preserve a species that is still being threatened by logging and hunting.

The work that the Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre does will ensure that the orangutans in Sarawak have a safe space within the nature reserve to live out their lives as they were meant to. Albeit with a little help from donors like you to keep their bellies full with fruits. 

Find out more about adopting an orangutan here

This post was brought to you by Sarawak Trade & Tourism Co. Pte. Ltd. (STATOS).
Cover image adapted from: Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

The post You Can Now Adopt An Orangutan & Do Your Bit To Save Wildlife This New Year appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

After last year’s Christmas lowkey celebrations during the pandemic, many of us have been hoping for something more spirited this festive season. While this year’s revelry won’t be very different, we can still look forward to ringing in merriment with heaps of indoor and virtual festive activities.

Whether you’re planning to spend the holidays with your loved ones or indulge in one-on-one activities, here are six creative ways to celebrate Christmas without gathering in big groups:

1. Pack Christmas goodie bags for neighbours and loved ones

Image credit: Aliexpress

Feasting and gift shopping are synonymous with Christmas. But ‘tis the season to also share our blessings with those less fortunate than us. If you’re looking to gain good karma points, take on a family project together by packing Christmas goodie bags.

It’s a simple enough activity that even young ones can get involved in. Choose a bunch of snacks and treats, like chocolates and holiday crackers then get your kids to pack them into bags.

Gift something meaningful by adding soaps from Soapsdaily to the packs too. Any soaps bought from their website from now till 31st December 2021 will help to raise funds for the Singapore Hospice Council (SHC). 

Image credit: Soapsdaily

If you’re hoping to spread a little more joy this holiday season, purchase and directly donate a Christmas Hamper from Soapsdaily to patients under palliative care and their caregivers from SHC. 

Then for a personal touch, write a note of well wishes before you drop your gifts off to your neighbours. With these goodie bags, you’ll also be able to minimise the need to mingle in large groups, while letting the ones that matter know you’re still thinking about them.

Singapore Hospice Council x Soapsdaily
Date: Now till 31st December 2021

Buy Christmas hampers for hospices at Soapsdaily

2. Make Gingerbread cookies or cocktails on your own

While festive treats are aplenty, nothing beats an annual Christmas tradition like baking good ol’ gingerbread cookies. But if you want to skip fiddling with exact measurements and go straight to assembling, frosting and decorating, pick up a gingerbread house kit instead at Spotlight for $31.50.

If you’re running around the clock and have no time to bake from scratch, Wishes Cookies is selling a selection of burnt cheesecakes for the holiday season. From now till 24th December 2021, treat yourself to a 12-piece box of Original or Oreo Mini Burnt Cheesecake ($30) or a 6-Inch Burnt Cheesecake ($25).

Although considerably indulgent, you’ll easily earn karma points with each purchase, as 50% of the proceeds from the sale of these bites will go towards the Rainbow Centre.

Besides tucking into delicious holiday goodies, some of us look forward to unwinding from the year’s hustle with a strong drink. Have a go at shaking up your own Christmas cocktail with an alcoholic bubble tea and cocktail making class ($68/pax).

You’ll get to work hand-in-hand with a top mixologist and learn to make your bubble tea with an adult twist with the addition of Whiskey or Baileys. On top of this, you’ll also get to make three other cocktails during the 1.5-hour workshop.

Rainbow Centre x Wishes Cookies
Date: Now till 24th December 2021

Buy desserts to make a donation at Wishes Cookies

3. Create your own holiday scented candle

Now that we’ve reached December, it’s time to swap out your favourite autumn cinnamon-spiced pumpkin candles for ones with a hot chocolate scent. But unless you’ve already stocked up on candles from your favourite store, you can add your own personal touch by making your own scented candle.  

Newbies can sign up for a basic candle making workshop where you’ll get to work with an experienced instructor for $89.90/pax. You’ll get to bring home two soy candles from the workshop, and the first 100 attendees get to take home a candle-making kit worth $29.90.

If you’re on a tighter budget, you can pick up a beginner candle-making kit at Spotlight for $21. With simple instructions to guide you through, you’ll be able to make up to three candles from a selection of scents, such as ocean rose, white tea and jasmine.

4. Go all out with a DIY Xmas photoshoot

With fluctuating regulations, it’s hard trying to remember the last time hanging out in groups was a thing. This Christmas, commemorate spending time with loved ones with a DIY festive photoshoot. You’ll have fun spending time together doing creative poses, and you’ll get photo keepsakes to boot.

There’s no need to visit a studio just for this. A phone camera and a few inexpensive tools like a cloth backdrop and ring light are enough to transform your home into a makeshift photo studio. As for getting into a Christmassy mood, add trees, tinsel, presents and festive decors like inflatable candy canes and holiday bunting.

You can even have a go at making your own Christmas decorations like a Christmas elf or reindeer from a sock crafting workshop. With complimentary materials available, you’ll be able to DIY your own doll with the fam bam at the sock babies edition session for kids ($39) and Mr/Miss Freckled edition session for adults ($58). 

5. Bond with your friends by playing a Xmas themed board game

Christmas may be a season of altruism, but a little competition never hurt anyone. Take turns contending with loved ones and your little ones with Christmas-themed board games as a way to bond with them. 

You can get hands-on with family-friendly games, like Christmas-opoly ($76) and Christmas Carols & Songs ($85) on desertcart.sg for rounds of cordial competition. For the tots and kiddos in your fam, keep things educational with Santa’s Sleigh Ride ($77) to learn more about geography by delivering presents for Santa.

Game nights in December don’t all have to be related to Santa, of course. Check out these other unique board and card games to spice up competition within your family. 

And if all that competitiveness gets you hungry, fuel up on sustenance at Shake Shack at Jewel Changi with their concretes ($7.50 single, $9.50 double) from now till 31st December 2021. You won’t just get a satisfied belly, you’ll be doing some good too, as 5% of the sales will be donated to Club Rainbow Singapore. 

Club Rainbow x Shake Shack
Date: Now till 31st December 2021
Address: 78 Airport Boulevard #02-256, Jewel Changi, Singapore 819666
Opening hours: 10.30AM-10PM, Daily

6. Learn to knit a cosy or “ugly” Christmas sweater

When it comes to being jolly at Christmas, nothing beats busting out festive “ugly” sweaters to put everyone in a good mood. And if you don’t have one, you can always knit your own sweaters at home.

Knitting equipment is affordable and can be found in most craft shops. With different coloured yarns and embellishments like pom poms available, making a sweater that shouts your personality is definitely possible.

No skills, no problem either, as you can easily pick up knitting at Wish I Were Stitching. Grab a friend for a knitting party with their personable 2-pax workshops (from $55) at their store. The lessons will get you acquainted with the basics so that you can make your sweater in time for Christmas.

Spread the joy this Christmas during SG Cares Giving Week

Despite another year of mellow Christmas celebrations, we can still end 2021 on a high note without having to gather in big groups. Apart from just soaking up the merrymaking and splurging on gifts, come together as a community to celebrate the spirit of giving with SG Cares Giving Week. 

From now till 31st December 2021, volunteer or donate to a cause of your choice by participating in The Great Singapore Give campaign.

It is not just the less fortunate that could use our time and money. Communities and causes supporting arts and culture, education, sports, animal welfare and the environment could do with our help too. Check out various causes under People, Passion and Nature causes for meaningful ways to give back.

On the flip side, you’ll also be able to participate in heaps of micro-giving activities, under the Everyday Giving Initiative, where you can Eat, Play and Shop while giving back to the community, just by donating a small sum while doing your daily activities. Here are three other ways to do good:

Get around and do good at the same time

For those who regularly use car rental services, use these opportunities to make a charitable donation when you download the Tribecar app for $1.90 from 14th December 2021 onwards. They will match every download and donate $3.80 to the Singapore Red Cross to support Community Health on Wheels, and Medical Chaperone and Transportation.

On top of that, as part of Gojek’s Go the Extra Mile week campaign, you’ll also be able to show your appreciation to underappreciated drivers and donate $1 back to them when you take a ride from now till 5th December 2021. 

Do your Xmas shopping on eCapitaMall

​​

While you’re getting your fill of retail therapy for the holidays, you can channel shopping into doing some good on eCapitaMall. From 11th November – 31st December 2021, shoppers can purchase items like books and handicrafts from charities listed under CapitaLand’s #iShop4Good.

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or getting stocking stuffers for your loved ones, CapitaLand Hope Foundation (CHF) will donate $5 for every item purchased.

Burn calories after feasting

Image credit: Discovery Loyalty 

With the year coming to a close, don’t let unused and expiring credits on your ClassPass go to waste. From now till 7th December 2021, ClassPass users can pay it forward by purchasing a 30-minute foot massage treatment at St Gregory Spa for 18 credits. The treatment will be given to caregivers of those with disabilities at ExtraOrdinary People as a treat.

You can also head on over to SG Giving Week to find other opportunities to help those in need. For example, Technolite S’pore is running a fundraising campaign that aims to support the operational cost of St John’s Home for the Elderly. 

It goes without saying that giving back to our communities shouldn’t be confined to just a week a year, and you can start your giving journey with SG Cares Giving Week. There are plenty of other ways to make donating and volunteering a part of our daily lives that you can find on Giving.sg. Or to access giving opportunities right at your fingertips, download the SG Cares app.

As the saying goes, small ripples make big waves. Any contribution, great or small, will help grow our community to one that cares.

Note: Tune in on 5th December 2021 at 2.30PM to Channel 5 (repeat telecast) on how you can play a part in SG Cares Giving Week this year.

Find out more about SG Cares Giving Week

This post was brought to you by SG Cares Giving Week.
SG Cares Giving Week is jointly organised by the National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre, the National Council of Social Service, and the SG Cares Office.
Photography by Huiwen Chen.

The post 6 Creative Ways To Celebrate Xmas Even Without Gathering In Big Groups For Friends & Family appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Singaporeans, we’ve been in this pandemic for a while. As we navigate the ever-changing situation, some of us might be facing difficulties in attaining personal milestones like weddings, graduation and jobs, coping with WFH, or keeping our businesses afloat. 

Seeing how many of us are in “survival mode”, sparing a thought for others might be the least of our priorities. 

But don’t let doing good take a backseat – it can be simple to help someone who has it a little tougher in these trying times. If you’re keen and unsure on where to start, here are some ideas. 

1. Local hawkers and F&B businesses

When the Phase 2 Heightened Alert kicked in with the verdict “no dine-in”, there must have been a collective groan from F&B establishments and hawkers island-wide. 

If they didn’t have the means or savvy to jump onto the online delivery train, they risked getting left behind. Even in the current P3HA, the 2-pax dine-in rule has put a dent in businesses who traditionally host big groups or special occasions. 

Old-school hawker stalls need our help to stay in business
Image credit: @wheretodabao

Thankfully, some groups have sprouted up to help these food businesses to garner more eyeballs – and hence business. 

Image credit: @wheretodabao, Carousell

For instance, #HawkersUnited Dabao on Facebook is a bustling group that features local hawkers and F&B that you can visit next. On Carousell, you can help food businesses place a listing to publicise business. And on Instagram, check out wheretodabao and savetheelderlyhawkers.

Full-fledged directories on The Smart Local and Save Our Nomnoms also let you order food from vendors directly instead of “adding to cart” the same ol’ mains on your delivery apps. Psst...doing good might just garner you savings!

Specialised food channels have also sprouted up, like Tekka Online Market and Ray Of Hope, a wet market live stream and home baker fundraising channel respectively. 

2. Migrant Workers

 Another group that was in the news regularly last year were migrant workers, who were one of the groups most affected by the pandemic outbreak. 

Volunteers with migrant workers
Image credit: Migrant Workers’ Centre

Today, you can still help them out by offering items like dry food, sanitary supplies or phone cards at the Covid Migrant Support Coalition or Hope Initiative Alliance, or donate from as low as $15 to give them a welfare package instead. You can also donate meals at Giving.sg.

You can even put your skillz to good use, like signing up to teach them English virtually at Mad Wish, all in the comfort of your home.

3. Low income families

For those of us upset over not being able to hang out with friends, or lack of travel to exotic locales, put this in perspective – many others are just trying to make ends meet in this pandemic. 

Lower-income families are especially hard hit, so you can do your bit by helping out by donating what you can afford to the Covid-19 Response Family Assistance fund via their Giving page. 

Image credit: Children’s Wishing Well

Also consider that not all youths or children from low-income families can afford luxuries like laptops or tutoring support – ever more crucial since Home-Based Learning is now a thing. You can lend your assistance by being a tutor or donating an old laptop or computer parts at Children’s Wishing Well.

4. People who have been retrenched

 The Singapore economy has gone on a wild roller coaster ride since the pandemic, and not all of us are lucky enough to retain our jobs in the uncertain landscape.

If you’re a creative who has lost their job or know someone who has, check out postings at ilostmygig. Conversely, you can also post gigs to lend a helping hand. Else, if you belong to one of the harder-hit industries such as travel or tourism, you can get a boost too simply by listing your availability in this spreadsheet.

If you’re looking for jobs, you can also check out MyCareersFuture virtual career fair for leads or these flexi-jobs for immediate income. 

Help these hard hit communities affected by Covid-19 in Singapore

As we go into the second quarter of 2021, and watch the economy slowly recover, we might be tempted to think the “worst is over” and continue our lives as per usual. 

However, even as we pick ourselves up, and enjoy dine-out and loosened measures, let’s not forget the less privileged in our midst who need help to recover from the whirlwind that is Covid-19 in Singapore.

If you’re looking for more opportunities to help out, here are some ideas:

• Flexible volunteer opportunities in Singapore
• Places to volunteer in Singapore
• Salvation Army guide
• Blood donation in Singapore

Cover image adapted from: @wheretodabao, Children’s Wishing Well, Migrant Workers’ Centre

The post 4 Hardest Hit Communities Affected By Covid-19 In Singapore, & How You Can Help Them Out appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

The past year has been unforgettable, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As a result, many Singaporeans from different walks of life have been affected by economic effects and lifestyle changes. Since then, many have banded together to create volunteer opportunities and make sure that no one’s left behind. 

Even as we continue to work towards greater recovery, issues that these groups face like unemployment or lack of support will continue to exist for the foreseeable future.

If you’re inspired to give back to society, here are seven volunteer opportunities in Singapore. Not only will you be assisting the community, but you’ll also provide help for specific groups that have been impacted in various ways such as job-seekers dealing with the recession, or students without access to laptops.

1. Healthserve – assist migrant workers with dental services

Image credit: Healthserve

When the Covid-19 pandemic first hit the migrant worker community in Singapore, many of us were made aware of the differences in living standards that Singaporeans had compared to them. Fortunately, there have been volunteer groups looking out for them since way before the pandemic.

One of them is Healthserve that provides assistance through healthcare and social services, with people like housewives and lawyers stepping up to volunteer. Activities you can get involved in include volunteering as a dental assistant, a physiotherapy assistant or a nurse.

Image credit: Healthserve

During the Covid-19 pandemic, they’ve also been working closely on the ground with migrant communities. This includes dorm management, and keeping migrant workers up-to-date with government policies and laws, to ensure new laws aren’t accidentally broken.

If you have a passion to help the migrant worker community, you can choose to volunteer with them regularly with a minimum of once per month, on an ad-hoc basis or on casework projects that may require a commitment of at least nine months. All you need to do is to submit a volunteer application form on their website for the role that you are interested in applying for.

Find out more information on Healthserve.

2. AWWA – online activities with seniors like Bingo & exercise

Image credit: AWWA

It’s a known fact that Singapore has a large community of elderly folk, many of whom live alone. At AWWA’s Health and Senior Care Services, you’ll be able to engage and befriend seniors virtually through activities such as online Bingo and Zumba. It doesn’t stop at virtual sessions; volunteers also send gifts like e-cards and snacks to let the beneficiaries know they were thinking of them.

“Sometimes when they donate ice-cream or snacks for our clients, they also get some for us (the staff) to thank us for working so hard to help these people”, Wen Min, an executive at AWWA shared, when asked about some of the small gestures people did throughout 202’s Circuit Breaker to keep their spirits high.

Wen Min also shared that although Zumba sessions over Zoom were initially hard to for the elderly to adapt to, they soon got used to it. In fact, they enjoyed  having these virtual sessions with the help of volunteers. If you want to engage meaningfully with seniors, and perhaps make their day, all you’ll need to do is sign up on AWWA’s portal.

Aside from Health and Senior Care Services, AWWA also serves vulnerable families as well as children and youths with additional needs.

Find out more information on AWWA. 

3. Engineering Good – donate & deliver laptops for students

Image credit: @engineeringgood 

When home-based learning started, Engineering Good started Computers against Covid, an initiative to provide tech access to students from lower income families. Since then, they have been collecting and repairing old laptops to be given to students who did not have access to do their work at home and attend virtual classes.

In response to Engineering Good’s call to action, Shirley, their communications volunteer shared just how heartwarming it was to see the kampung spirit come alive when all their volunteers and partners came together to make the initiative happen and succeed during the Circuit Breaker.

“For the 160 – 200 of us volunteers, most of us were strangers but through the period of the Circuit Breaker, we managed to adapt and develop a distributed model of working to get this operation going. That is truly amazing because if you think about it, none of us knew what to expect, it was entirely new. And we made it work.” 

Other than donating your old laptop, you can also volunteer to be part of the team that repairs and delivers these laptops. For tech geeks out there especially, this is a good way for you to put your skills into practice and give back to society at the same time.

Find out more information about Engineering Good.

4. GoodHood SG – connect with neighbours & deliver groceries

Image credit: GoodHood

If you have been one of the unlucky ones who have had to serve a stay-home-notice, you would understand the pain of being confined – like getting meals delivered to you and fighting increasing cabin fever. 

GoodHoodSG was started by a group of friends during the 2019 December holidays as a platform for individuals to help others around their neighbourhood. From free tuition services to delivering groceries, the platform allows beneficiaries to place their requests for help on the Goodhood iOS app or Goodhood Android app and volunteers in the neighbourhood would be notified.

Image credit: Appadvice

Perfect for those who may not have the time to commit to long-term volunteering initiatives, this app allows you to do good for others even with small pockets of time. 

Find out more information on GoodHoodSG.

5. Silver Ribbon Singapore – undergo training to be a mental health advocate

There has been increased discussion about mental health in recent times, especially when we were all confined at home during the Circuit Breaker, as many mental health organisations and agencies saw a spike in calls and the number of people seeking help.

But gradual reopening doesn’t mean mental health awareness should stop, and Silver Ribbon Singapore aims to continuously change the stigma surrounding related illnesses and encourages positive attitudes instead. Through seminars, mental health events and complimentary counselling services, they provide a safe space for anyone affected while also promoting greater awareness of mental health in our communities.

During the course of the ongoing pandemic, they have been conducting regular talks online about various topics such as dealing with isolation and loneliness to cater to different groups. Volunteers can sign up to assist in organising such programmes, or in other ways such as lending design skills for their marketing collaterals and as an ad-hoc photographer for their events. 

If you want to be more heavily involved, they also conduct training sessions to learn more about mental health and the steps to take in becoming advocates for their cause. If you have personal experiences with mental health issues yourself, you can also volunteer to share them with those in need to provide some hope and inspiration. 

Find out more information about Silver Ribbon Singapore.

6. Halogen Foundation – mentorship programmes for underprivileged youths

Image credit: Halogen Foundation

It’s no secret that the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in a global recession, which has resulted in retrenchments and a more challenging job market for fresh graduates. But with the number of home businesses that have started during this time frame, it could be an alternative for many to turn to.

Halogen Foundation provides a platform for youths to learn more about the economy and entrepreneurship. Focused on building up and inspiring the younger generation and the lesser-privileged, the initiative achieves this by engaging volunteers to provide mentorship talks, workshops and programmes. 

This way, volunteers get to share their experiences and stories with youths to build up their confidence for the working world. They also hold regular Q&A sessions for the youths to gather better knowledge about any industry or skill set they’re interested in. 

Linda, a volunteer manager at Halogen Foundation, shared a particular incident with a student that touched her. “He shared with me ‘I didn’t know I had this determination in me.’ I realised it wasn’t so much about him wanting to become an entrepreneur, but more of him discovering his inner potential and realising that people actually believe in him.” 

Students like these served as reminders for volunteers such as Linda to persist through the challenges faced during the pandemic when in-person sessions couldn’t take place. Volunteers had to learn new ways to engage their beneficiaries through virtual activities through Zoom calls and virtual workshops, which in turn also helped fuel their passion for their causes.

Linda also shared that it was always heartwarming to see their volunteers become ambassadors and advocates for their cause and in turn recommend their friends to join their initiatives. 

Besides helping out as a facilitator to organise the programmes, volunteers are also encouraged to  share and plan workshop ideas regarding any industry or field, to help broaden the minds of Halogen’s pool of youth beneficiaries. 

Find out more information about Halogen Foundation.

7. Covid-19 Tutoring Support (CTSS) – volunteer tutoring online

During the Circuit Breaker, home-based learning wasn’t a concept familiar to both students and parents alike.
Image credit: Ace Tutors

Besides having access to a laptop, another problem that comes with not having face-to-face lessons is the unavailability of proper academic help. In light of this, Quek Hui Ying started the Covid-19 Tutoring Support (CTSS) with five other friends.

With free tuition provided to primary, secondary and junior college students, this initiative aims to level out the playing field as not everyone may have equal access to educational support. This programme is not exclusive to students who are from lower-income families as Hui Ying and her friends recognise that the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in a lot of instability across the board. “It doesn’t only affect the people that we would normally classify as underprivileged. These are unique times and anybody could just suddenly lose their job.” 

“Sometimes I think that I’m serving the community, but the community is actually supporting me,” Hui Ying said, after she shared how parents showed concern about her own life and studies overseas, knowing that her education abroad was also affected.

This initiative has since ended as of November 2020, but you can follow CTSS on Instagram for updates.

Alternatively, check out their list of organisations you can volunteer at. 

Volunteer opportunities to join in Singapore

Image credit: Giving.sg

Although the pandemic has put a strain on us, it has also shown us that despite it all, we are still able to come together as a community to lend a helping hand to those in need. 

If you’ve never tried volunteering or never knew where to start, it’s never too late – you never know how you will benefit from it yourself. As Shirley from Engineering Good succinctly put it, “Volunteering teaches you empathy, compassion and it gives you the biggest gift of all – hope.” 

With SG Passion Made Possible, discover your passions and use them to give back to the community around you. From entertainment to healthcare, there will be many avenues for you to contribute to Singapore’s less-privileged. 

Even as the pandemic continues across our city and the world, keep the positivity and continue to pursue helping others. From the conversations with the volunteers from some of these volunteer initiatives, you could even discover a new passion that you never realised before.

As Hui Ying from CTSS says, “It’s always nice to see people willing to learn and go through this experience in such trying times. Even as we go through the challenges in our current situation, we should use our passions to push ourselves and help the people around us.” 

This list features just some of the many volunteer initiatives out there. If you have been volunteering, you can also share your experiences on social media with the hashtag #ThisisSG and continue to spread positivity with others!

Find out more about #ThisIsSG here

This post was brought to you by the Singapore Brand Office (SGBO). Responses have been edited for grammar and clarity.
Originally published on 1st September 2020. Updated on 15th June 2021.
Cover image adapted from (clockwise from top-left): AWWA, Ace Tutors, Healthserve.

The post 7 Flexible Volunteer Opportunities In Singapore To Help Others Affected By Covid-19 & The Recession appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

We’re almost at the finish line of the unexpected year 2020 has been, and with the festive season coming up, we now have a reason to relax and enjoy our celebrations. But as we stuff our faces with decadent meals and treat ourselves to nice gifts, we should also give some thought to those who are less fortunate. 

Good news is, you can easily offer a helping hand with SG Cares Giving Week 2020 from 1st – 7th December 2020. This event is jointly organised by SG Cares, NVPC (National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre) and NCSS (National Council of Social Service), and is partnering with many prominent names like UNIQLO and Shopee to help us reap some karma points. 

From customising T-shirts to online shopping, here are six unique ways you can give back this festive season.

1. Shop on Lazada to support non-profit organisations

Image credit: Club Rainbow

We usually log on to Lazada to get everything from the latest tech gadgets to affordable fashion accessories from big-name brands. But during SG Cares Giving Week 2020, we can also help out a couple of non-profit organisations who are selling their merchandise on the shopping platform.

Simply head on over to the Lazada stores of these charities: 

• Abilities Beyond Limitations & Expectations (ABLE)
• Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore (CPAS)
• Club Rainbow
• National Kidney Foundation (NKF)
• Presbyterian Community Services (PCS)

When you buy a product, the funds will go directly to these beneficiaries. Think beautiful tote bags, batik pouches, calendars and an assortment of arts and crafts created by those in their care. P.S. These make great Christmas gifts too.

When: Till 12th December 2020
Visit the Lazada SG Cares Giving Week website.

2. Harvest trees on Shopee Farm to donate $1

Image adapted from: Shopee

This festive season, you’ll be able to reap an extra abundant harvest on Shopee Farm, a popular Shopee game where you earn vouchers simply by “watering” your plant regularly. 

As part of the “Shopee Giving Tree” campaign, you’ll earn attractive vouchers from brands like foodpanda, Häagen-Dazs and UOB. Shopee will also donate $1 to the SG Cares Giving Week Fund for every successful tree harvested. 

This is a win-win situation for everyone here, as all you have to do is care for your virtual farm to give back to society. And if you want to go the extra mile, you can give back easily anytime from now till Christmas day – just purchase a care pack for those in need or donate via the Shopee Digital Donation drive.

When: 1st – 7th December, 15th -19th December.
Download the Shopee mobile app

3.  Customise UNIQLO T-shirts with exclusive customised stickers

Image adapted from: UNIQLO

UNIQLO T-shirts are a wardrobe staple and one way to level up your shirts is by personalising them with the UTme! service – a T-shirt customisation service available only at their Orchard Central flagship store. 

UNIQLO has also partnered with Community Chest to launch eight unique stickers designed by creative individuals with special needs, each design being inspired by the artist’s perspective and the challenges they face daily. 

70% of the total sales from the campaign will also go back to the Community Chest and the charity causes they support.

When: Till 31st December 2020
Visit the UNIQLO website.

4. Donate to a children’s home while getting deals on Fave

Image adapted from: Fave

Fave’s deals have come in handy whenever we want to save some cash on that spa treatment or Subway meal. During SG Cares Giving Week 2020, they’re giving us an easy way to spread some cheer with their Season of Giving Christmas campaign.

On top of snapping up your usual staycay or beauty deals, you can also make a donation. When you donate $10, you’ll be buying a hot, piping meal for a child at the Chen Su Lan Methodist Children’s Home. Similarly, a donation of $30 will help them with school supplies, and $50 will provide them with grocery vouchers for the home.

When: Till 31st December 2020
Visit the Fave website

5. Watch short films on social causes at Viddsee

While you’re clearing your leaves this year-end, swap out your usual Netflix shows to get some insight into social causes in Singapore. Viddsee will be screening short films and series that cover topics like mental health awareness and caring for vulnerable seniors. 

Each video is about 20 minutes or less, so you can easily watch them all in one evening. Viddsee is also raising funds for the Community Chest through Giving.sg, and all donations will go towards empowering the lives of the more vulnerable members of our community.

When: Till 31st December 2020
Visit the Viddsee website

6. Get active in a virtual run to support people with disabilities

Image credit: SPD

Just because we can’t do group cardio activities outdoors today doesn’t mean we can’t clock in some running together virtually. Besides, you can run at your own pace and do good at the same time with SPD’s Ability Walk & Run, a virtual race on platform 42Race.

Held in conjunction with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3rd December 2020, there are three accumulative race categories you can sign up in to show support and raise funds for those with disabilities. 

So whether you’re running a leisurely 2km, a modest 10km, or a hardcore 30km race, you can do each distance at your own time and comfort; you just have to cross the finish line anytime from 1st to 14th December. You can also jio your running kakis and form a team of four to challenge other teams for the TechnipFMC Longest Distance Award.

When: Till 14th December 2020
Visit the SPD Ability Walk & Run Website

Support the needy during SG Cares Giving Week 2020

Besides these unique ways to give back to charity, there are many ways you can do good in this year’s event.

For instance, grant a child’s wish during this festive season by giving them a gift they’ve requested for on the Motherworks Giving Tree. Whether it’s building blocks, new toys or simply a new carrier to help a struggling mum. 

Image credit: Motherworks

It’ll warm your heart to know your funds are going to beneficiaries like the Babes Pregnancy Crisis, Down Syndrome Association Singapore and HCSA Community Services.

While SG Cares Giving Week 2020 might only last for a week, contributing to the SG Cares Giving Week Fund will last throughout the entire month of December so you have a lot of time to help fellow Singaporeans in need. The proceeds from this fund will be evenly distributed to at least 30 smaller charities who might not be able to make big fundraising efforts – your little acts could go a long way! Donate to the SG Cares Giving Week fund.

Find out more about SG Cares Giving Week 2020 and how to take part 

This post was brought to you by the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC) – Towards a City of Good.
Cover image adapted from: Shopee.

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