Resources Archives

Continuity, Growth, and Purpose: CFS Launches Refreshed Mission and Brand

As the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) approaches 17 years of enabling meaningful giving and enters a new chapter, we have unveiled our refreshed brand identity and a renewed Vision and Mission – marking a significant milestone in our journey to build a more generous, connected, and resilient Singapore.“Singapore’s philanthropic landscape has evolved significantly in the last decade, so it’s timely for CFS to take stock and reflect on how far it has come and where it wants to go. In a process that took a year, CFS’s leadership team worked with its Board and staff to reexamine and validate why giving is an important societal virtue, and how growing the giving pie translates to stronger, happier communities.” said Mr Paul Tan, CEO of CFS.

The Community Foundation of Singapore Ushers in a New Era of Philanthropy

The Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) enters a new era with the appointment of Mr Paul Tan as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 April 2025. This marks a significant leadership transition for Singapore’s most established community foundation, as outgoing CEO Ms Catherine Loh steps down after 13 years of dedicated stewardship.Paul joined CFS in August 2024 as Chief of Staff for Strategic Planning and Finance, bringing with him years of public sector and media industry experience, including leadership roles at the Singapore Tourism Board and National Arts Council. He holds a PhD from Nanyang Technological University and has served on various government and philanthropic committees. Prior to joining CFS full-time, Paul also served on its Programmes and Grants sub-committee.

Opening Doors: Making Education Accessible to Vulnerable Children and Youth

Can a child truly focus on education if their family struggles to afford basic needs like food and shelter? Research has shown that education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty, but for children from lower-income families, daily survival often takes priority. This can hold them back and widen opportunity gaps. At CFS, we seek to address these challenges so every child gets the support they need to succeed.Our donors recently had the chance to learn more from two charities who are working to bridge this gap. Working in close collaboration with government ministries, schools, and communities, they deliver accessible education and renewed hope for children and youth through mentorship, befriending, and activities.

Honouring Legacies, Embracing New Beginnings: CFS’s Annual Chinese New Year Appreciation Luncheon

A Celebration of Growth, Gratitude and New Beginnings: CFS’s Annual Chinese New Year Appreciation Luncheon

On 7 February 2025, the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) welcomed over 200 donors, charity partners, and friends to our Annual Chinese New Year Appreciation Luncheon at Paradox Singapore Merchant Court Hotel.As we celebrated the festive season, we also reflected on the impact we’ve made together – thanks to the generosity and commitment of our community.

‘Tis the Season to Give: Bring Cheer to Those in Need This Year-End

As cool, rainy nights set in and bright, sparkling decorations line the streets, it’s clear that the season of giving has arrived in sunny Singapore. Families and friends gather to celebrate the spirit of joy, love, and gratitude, exchanging gifts and enjoying moments together.However, this season can be a challenging time for some, who may feel a deeper sense of isolation amidst the celebrations. Financial pressures can weigh heavier on those struggling to get by.

The Community Foundation of Singapore wins Charity Transparency Award for the Fourth Time

The Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) has been awarded the Charity Transparency Award (CTA) 2024, marking its fourth consecutive win of this prestigious honour. Presented by the Charity Council, the CTA recognises organisations that uphold high standards of transparency as outlined in the Charity Transparency Framework (CTF).

Lighting the Way Together: CFS Celebrates Mid-Autumn Festival with the Association for Persons with Special Needs

The Mid-Autumn Festival held special significance for the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) team this year. They joined trainees at APSN Centre for Adults (CFA) for a creative lantern painting activity, transforming simple lanterns into vibrant artworks. The event served as an excellent icebreaker, sparking conversations and even some impromptu dance performances.

Ensuring A Brighter Future for Vulnerable Families and Children

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?

Giving back to society without fuss, the Singaporean way

When people in Singapore hear the word “philanthropy”, I suspect the first picture that crosses their mind is a well-dressed person holding up a large mock cheque at a grand ceremony. Accompanying that mental picture is the thought that philanthropy is too lofty, and unattainable for them. This is understandable, given how the media tends to spotlight the big – and newsworthy – gifts to charities, and how beneficiaries want to recognise such generosity.But the reality, certainly in the time that I have been involved at the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS), focused on growing philanthropy, is far removed from this. The donors that the team and I have met over the years have been diverse. In many ways, this is a microcosm of Singaporean society.

Improving Employability: Creating Opportunities for All

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.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.

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