Events

CFS participates in OCBC Sustainability Day

Events

Home Resources Events CFS participates in OCBC Sustainability Day

Events

CFS participates in OCBC Sustainability Day

John Doe

CFS is honoured to be part of the inaugural OCBC Sustainability Day! Our thanks to the Bank of Singapore for the invitation to co-host a booth at the employee-driven event themed ‘Sustainability – it’s all in our hands!‘. This initiative was created by a group of passionate and dedicated OCBC Bank Group employees known as SING (Sustainability Interest Networking Group), which aims to encourage every individual to make more sustainable choices.

The event was a tremendous success with hundreds of employees and partners who attended a mixture of virtual sessions, and a Bazaar showcasing OCBC Group’s sustainability achievements as well as companies showcasing green products and innovations.

Join CFS as we do our part for SG Giving Week 2021

A diverse group of individuals standing united in front of a sign displaying the empowering message "Together We Can.". (From left) James Tan, Tan-Wu Mei Ling, Justina Tan, Joyce Teo, Dr Ang Kiam Wee, Pang Sze Khai and Jacky Ang.

Singapore Youth Impact Collective helps youths progress from classroom to working life

picture of poon yu hui, lydia lim yong yee, betty chum, nur ashikin bte rahim, lim pei shan, joyce than jia yi, and laurina tay kai yee

International Women’s Forum Singapore: Empowering young women for a better future

Learn more about our sustainability efforts at https://www.cf.org.sg/corporate-sustainability/ and the Legacy Giving Initiative at https://legacygiving.sg/.

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Events

Inspiring thoughts from our anniversary speeches

John Doe

At CFS’s 10th anniversary event, it was the perfect moment to reflect on the sea of change in the philanthropy landscape over the past decade. But what lies ahead? Our three distinguished speakers – Grace Fu, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Catherine Loh, CEO of CFS, and Laurence Lien, Chairman of CFS – all struck home the point on philanthropy’s potential for growth in Singapore – through driving impact via new giving channels, collaboration and innovative approaches.

Here are three inspiring thoughts from the evening’s speeches:

Giving back to society without fuss, the Singaporean way

Group of elderly sitting around a round table

Family of Wisdom – Caring for persons with dementia and their caregivers

Three young men playing soccer on a field, displaying teamwork, agility, and passion for the sport.

Changi Foundation – Helping youths to realise their dreams

Working together to build a caring Singapore.
“The work at CFS contributes to SG Cares, because an impactful philanthropy landscape is a hallmark of a caring society, where those with resources give back effectively to help those in need. Collaboration is the way to go, and donors today are taking more initiative, and seeking more meaningful engagement opportunities. CFS is well positioned to seize these opportunities and provide the platforms.”
Grace Fu, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth
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Philanthropy will need to continue to evolve.
“While Singapore has progressed rapidly, the social challenges we face, from an ageing population to social inequality, have become more complex and interconnected. While the government tackles social issues on a large scale, there are always gaps that are in need of more support. It’s crucial for philanthropy to evolve to tackle these diverse issues within our community innovatively.”
Catherine Loh, CEO, CFS
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There’s room to dream bigger and beyond.
“I hope that in 2028, we will see mini community foundations in our neighbourhoods, in places like Toa Payoh, Queenstown and Punggol. (I hope) that we have democratised giving. Giving is not only for the rich; everyone should and can give. I hope to see young adults start donor advised funds with us, at smaller amounts of commitment, and our collective funds grow with widespread contributions. I hope to see CFS raise $1 billion in donor funds, maybe not in 10 years’ time, but at some point in the future.”
Laurence Lien, Chairman, CFS
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John Doe

The competition was organised by City Harvest Community Services Association and received support from FUN! Fund, a Community Impact Fund jointly established by the Community Foundation of Singapore and the Agency for Integrated Care, with the aim of addressing social isolation among the elderly.

Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Communications and Information & Ministry of National Development Mr Tan Kiat How attended the event. He encouraged the elderly to stay physically and mentally well, as well as urging them to participate in community activities and enjoy their golden years together.

Learn more about FUN! Fund at https://www.cf.org.sg/fun-fund/.

The programme provides the children with a non-threatening platform to connect with peers and have positive conversations. In addition, it exposes them to different people who can assist to broaden their perspectives.
L.S., a volunteer with the Reading Odyssey programme @ Spooner Road

中心“常胜将军”胡锦盛：比赛限时反应要快

现年92岁的胡锦盛是最年长的参赛者。自2017年退休后，他几乎每天都到活跃乐龄中心报到，从此爱上了玩拉密，每次可玩上三个小时，在中心是“常胜将军”。

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Events

Improving Employability: Creating Opportunities for All

October 30, 2024

In Singapore’s vibrant economy, employment is a key driver of social mobility and well-being. However, some groups face unique challenges in securing and maintaining meaningful work. At the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS), we recognise the importance of creating pathways to employment for all members of our community. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programmes, CFS is working to enhance employability and open doors of opportunity for those who need it most.

Group photo: The team behind Bettr Academy and Assumption Pathway School, empowering individuals through skills training and support

Celebrating 15 Years of Impact: CFS Annual Report 2024

Secure And Impactful Philanthropy: CFS Clinches Cyber Essentials Mark

Set up during the covid-19 pandemic, Sayang Sayang Fund raised $9.7m over three years, supporting over 400,000 lives
应疫情设立 Sayang Sayang基金三年筹970万元惠及40万人

We invited donors to Bettr Group’s new space to learn more about three impactful initiatives offered by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), Bettr Group, and Assumption Pathway School (APS). These initiatives are making a positive impact on the lives of Singapore citizens and residents by promoting skills development, workplace inclusion, and supportive environments.

Uplifting Lower-Income Families: The ComLink+ Progress Package on Employment by MSF

The Collective for a Stronger Society seeks to empower lower-income families living in rental flats through multiple domains of support

The ComLink+ Progress Package on Employment by MSF is designed to help lower-income families in Singapore achieve financial stability and social mobility. Through financial support and dedicated family coaches, the programme fosters stable employment and creates a foundation for long-term economic independence. This holistic approach addresses the financial challenges faced by these families and empowers them to achieve self-reliance and improved quality of life, ultimately contributing to a stronger and more resilient society.

This programme is part of the Collective for a Stronger Society initiative by CFS, which aims to offer a coordinated series of cross-sector programmes and initiatives to uplift, enable, and empower lower-income families.

Ensuring No Student is Left Behind: Stepping Stones Programme by Assumption Pathway School

Mr Stephen Chin, Principal of Assumption Pathway School, shares a moment of joy and reflection with graduates of the Stepping Stones Programme.

The Stepping Stones Programme by Assumption Pathway School (APS) provides skills training and employment pathways for those who fail their Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE). This six-year programme equips students with the essential skills and knowledge needed for stable employment. The curriculum includes literacy, numeracy, health and fitness, baking, culinary arts, facility services, hospitality services, and co-curricular activities (CCA). The first four years focus on building confidence and character through foundational vocational skills, while the final two years offer advanced vocational training and work-study opportunities, preparing students who are unable to progress to the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) for the workforce.

Eriq, a beneficiary of the APS Stepping Stones Programme, reflected on his journey. “I was one of the most troublesome students at APS. There was a point when I nearly dropped out because my attendance was so poor,” he admitted. However, with the support and encouragement from APS teachers, he realised the need for change.

“In my third year, I recognised that I couldn’t keep going down the same path. I was dealing with many family issues, and my teachers were always there to listen. Gradually, I started attending school regularly and noticed improvements in my performance.” Eriq joined APS in 2018 and, after overcoming these challenges, successfully graduated this year. He is now enrolled in ITE.

The Stepping Stones Programme profoundly impacts students like Eriq, especially those from lower-income families. By providing structured pathways for skills training and employment, the programme keeps at-risk students engaged in education, helps them develop essential life skills, and overcome socio-economic barriers, leading to better life outcomes.

This programme is also part of the Collective for a Stronger Society initiative by CFS.

Empowering Vulnerable Youths and Mothers: The Bettr Holistic Training Programme

Ms Tay Suyin, Assistant Director at Bettr Academy, reflects on the ongoing support received from CFS over the years and how the Bettr Holistic Training Programme has positively impacted their beneficiaries.

The Bettr Holistic Training Programme is supported by the Community Foundation of Singapore’s LIFT Community Impact Fund. It supports disadvantaged individuals, including youths and young mothers. The comprehensive training includes coffee-making and F&B skills, mental and emotional resilience, physical fitness, and employment readiness, culminating in a 7-week work experience with employment partners.

Inarah, a beneficiary of the programme, struggled with anxiety and depression during her early teens, which impacted her school life. Encouraged by a friend, she decided to try working as a barista and joined the Bettr Holistic Training Programme. “The programme helped me build confidence and learn to express myself. If not for Bettr, I wouldn’t be able to speak up and share my journey like I’m doing today,” she said. Now, Inarah is a cheerful and welcoming presence at The Social Space, thriving both professionally and personally. Her story is a testament to the life-changing impact of the Bettr Holistic Programme, which continues to empower individuals like her to overcome their challenges and build a brighter future.

Join Us in Creating Opportunities for All

CFS is committed to improving employability and creating opportunities for our community. By supporting programmes like the ComLink+ Progress Package on Employment, the Assumption Pathway School Stepping Stones Programme, and the Bettr Holistic Training Programme, we can make a tangible difference to the lives of marginalised individuals and families.

We invite you to join us in this important work. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word about these initiatives, your support can help us continue to create pathways to employment and build a more equitable and prosperous future for all.

Get in touch: https://cf.org.sg/contact/get-in-touch/

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Opinion

How much does a Singapore household need for a basic standard of living?

John Doe

In a study of household budgets by Dr Ng Kok Hoe (Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy), A/P Teo Youyenn (Nanyang Technological University), Dr Neo Yu Wei (National University of Singapore), Dr Ad Maulod (Duke-NUS), Dr Stephanie Chok and Wong Yee Lok (LKYSPP), a basic standard of living means “…more than just, housing, food, and clothing. It is about having opportunities to education, employment, and work-life balance, as well as access to healthcare. It enables a sense of belonging, respect, security, and independence. It also includes choices to participate in social activities, and the freedom to engage in one’s cultural and religious practices.”

To date, a total of two household budget studies were conducted using the Minimum Income Standards (MIS) as a research method for establishing the incomes needed for a basic standard of living in Singapore. In 2019 the study[1] targeted seniors and in 2021 the study[2] extended this work to the needs of households. The results helped to establish a living wage level, a wage that allows people to afford a decent standard of living and embodies the values and principles that the public identifies with across a range of domains.

A Night with the Arts at “Don’t Call Him Mr. Mari Kita

Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) Family Office Circle Webinar: Philanthropy in Singapore and the Region

four people standing together posing for a picture

Singapore Tatler: CRIB X CFS Legacy Building And Impact Series

So, if I have a wish for, for next year and of course beyond…. it is to have a greater conversation around wages and people’s living standards that are based on principles like these – people’s needs, what is decent, what is basic, and what will allow people to not feel excluded from society.

Dr Ng Kok Hoe

Recognising the importance of research on the needs of households living in poverty, the Community Foundation of Singapore collaborated with the research team to invite 25 leaders from the social service sector to learn about the opportunities and trade-offs in applying MIS in Singapore, as well as to compare income standards in different countries. It was a process to understand about the living standards from ground up experiences which demonstrated what Singaporeans see as necessary and important to thrive while living in Singapore. Without such a process to unpack the lived experiences of individuals and communities, narratives often reinforce the worldview of the dominant and are unable to account for the real habits and practices of ordinary members of society.

The session with the social leaders was held in August 2022 and it opened up possibilities to incorporate MIS findings to review and enhance the delivery of programmes and services for marginalised communities and families.

This is an interesting discussion – we need more of these sessions for paradigm shifts within the sector itself. Social justice is one of the core principles in social work but what is “just” and is it the same as “fair”? Just or fair to who?
Participant’s reflection

The workshop invited attending social leaders to anticipate how society is changing and ask about the relevance of MIS and how it challenges or contributes to current income policies, assistance schemes, eligibility criteria for assistance and practices to ensure a minimum socially acceptable standard of living. It is also helpful for leaders from different fields to come together and share their assumptions, priorities, and values that may impact their assessment of clients’ needs and support provided.

It inspires me to imagine that when we talk about families no longer being in poverty, it is not just about being earning above a certain income (e.g., poverty line) but being able to achieve a basic standard of living. This has tremendous implications and guidance on how we think about measuring and evaluating the outcomes and impacts of our work.

Participant’s reflection

In the discussions, the participants found it crucial to include multiple stakeholders such as donors and funders who will fund these programmes and dictate expected processes and outcomes. As a follow-up, another session will be facilitated to gain their perspectives and ensure the conversation goes deeper, and generates aligned perspectives.

Through these sessions, we hope to push the boundary of thinking to inspire different stakeholders. Donors can play an important role in encouraging greater giving and I hope the next session will allow even deeper conversations

Joyce Teo, Executive Director, Centre for Applied Philanthropy, The Community Foundation of Singapore

This article was written by Joyce Teo, an executive director of Centre for Applied Philanthropy. Joyce leads the CAP team and works with donors and non-profit organisations to address the critical gaps in strategic philanthropy in Singapore.

References

[1] 2019 Household Budget Study: What older people need

[2] 2021 Household Budget Study: What people need in Singapore

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Events

Ensuring A Brighter Future for Vulnerable Families and Children

November 20, 2024

Imagine being released from prison after a decade, returning home to children who barely know you. How do you begin to rebuild your life and relationships with your family?

CFS CEO Ms Catherine Loh (center) with Ms Saleemah Ismail, Founder and Executive Director of New Life Stories (left), and Ms Lin Shiyun, Founder and Executive Director of 3Pumpkins (right)

Imagine being released from prison after a decade, returning home to children who barely know you. How do you begin to rebuild your life and relationships with your family?

Imagine being a child who does not have good relationships at home or in school, having little trust and confidence in the people around you. How do you find a sense of belonging and begin to develop your self-identity?

Our recent Donor Learning Trip highlighted charities addressing these questions.

Posts of the late former Law Society President Adrian Tan has been published as a book
律师公会已故前会长陈锦海曾发表贴文已结集成书

Donations to CFS increased by 60% over the past two years新加坡社区基金会两年多善款增六成

The Community Foundation of Singapore Wins Charity Transparency Award 2023

Empowering Families, Building Futures

While Singapore has done well in sustaining social mobility compared to other advanced economies, we do face challenges such as an ageing society and slowing economy (Ministry of Social and Family Development, 2022). Without targeted interventions, vulnerable families may struggle to overcome barriers to upward mobility. Addressing these challenges requires sustained efforts and innovative programmes that support families holistically, focusing on both immediate needs and long-term development.

During the event, donors learnt about three programmes that seek to improve the well-being of lower-income families and their children: Tak Takut Kids Club by 3Pumpkins provides a safe hangout for vulnerable children in public rental estates. The Family Strengthening Programme by New Life Stories helps incarcerated parents reconnect with their children, while the ComLink+ Progress Package on Debt Clearance supports families in managing their debt. These are just a few of the many programmes under the Collective for a Stronger Society, a five-year long effort which seeks to provide wraparound support for Singapore’s most vulnerable families.

Building Socio-Emotional Resilience in Vulnerable Children: Tak Takut Kids Club (TTKC) by 3Pumpkins

Ms Lin Shiyun, Founder and Executive Director of 3Pumpkins, started TTKC as a social experiment after three years of interacting with vulnerable children. She saw the need for a safe community space for them to learn and grow.

Located at Boon Lay Drive, Tak Takut Kids Club (TTKC) is a lively community space that supports the socio-emotional growth of children in rental flats. “Tak Takut,” meaning “don’t be afraid” in Malay, reflects the club’s mission to provide a secure, nurturing environment where children engage in art, cooking, gardening, sports, and free play. TTKC has become a second home for these children, fostering trust and community and encouraging them to connect with others.

Ms. Lin Shiyun, Founder and Executive Director of 3Pumpkins, explained, “TTKC is not just a drop-in center; it is a place where children feel safe and supported. Our goal is to establish a child-centric social support system that empowers each child to reach their full potential.” She added that it is akin to joining a ‘good gang’ for these children and youth who seek acceptance and a sense of belonging.

Watch this video to find out more about TTKC:

2. Wraparound Support for Incarcerated Parents and Their Children: The Family Strengthening Programme by New Life Stories

Ms. Saleemah Ismail, Founder and Executive Director of New Life Stories, highlighted that 21% of children with incarcerated parents end up in prison as adults, stressing the need for early family intervention.

The Family Strengthening Programme by New Life Stories offers comprehensive support to children and their incarcerated parents, focusing on Befriending, Incare, and Family Care. This programme allows parents to connect with their children through stories and messages, creating a foundation for rebuilding relationships. “Our mission is to break cycles of intergenerational social disadvantage by supporting families impacted by incarceration to rebuild their lives and strengthen family bonds. For example, our befriending weekly programme has contributed to an 81% improvement in literacy levels and 72% in self-confidence with the children that we work with,” Ms Saleemah said.

Watch how the Family Strengthening Programme transformed a mother’s life and helped her to reconnect her with her children:

3. Easing Financial Stress for Lower-Income Families: The ComLink+ Progress Package on Debt Clearance by MSF

The donor learning trip highlighted the essential support that lower-income families need to gain stability and enhance their quality of life

The ComLink+ Progress Package on Debt Clearance assists lower-income families with children in public rental flats by providing crucial debt relief. According to a study by the Social Service Research Centre (SSR) at the National University of Singapore (NUS), debt relief reduces mental strain, improving psychological well-being and cognitive function (NUS, 2019). This support empowers individuals to make sound financial decisions, aiding in their long-term journey out of poverty. Ultimately, the programme aims to foster stability, self-reliance, and social mobility.

More Than Just an Educational Experience

By witnessing the transformative impact of these programmes, donors were inspired to contribute to this collective effort that goes beyond mere financial support. It is about building a future for Singapore where every family, regardless of their socio-economic background, has the opportunity to thrive.

Join us in this mission to create lasting change. Together, we can break the cycle of poverty, uplift the social well-being of lower-income families, and build a stronger, more inclusive Singapore. By starting a donor-advised fund with CFS, you can make a profound difference, turning hope into reality for those who need it most.

Get involved today and be a part of this transformative journey.

References: