News

CFS’s first brand campaign ‘Portraits of generosity’ to inspire giving

News

Home Resources News CFS’s first brand campaign ‘Portraits of generosity’ to inspire giving

News

CFS’s first brand campaign ‘Portraits of generosity’ to inspire giving

John Doe

In tandem with its 10th anniversary, CFS launched its first ever brand campaign ‘Portraits of Generosity’– a series of heart-warming donor stories uncovering each donor’s motivation for giving.

Looking back at their lives, donors share their motivations for why they chose to give back to those in need. Be it an act of kindness, a family member’s compassion or a long tradition of philanthropy, the campaign unearthed the diverse experiences which left a mark on each donor’s life and spurred them to give back. Donors also open up about their philanthropic journey, why they chose to support specific causes and how seamless the giving experience can be through starting a fund with CFS.

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

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

The campaign kicked off with six of CFS’s donors: Keith Chua, Trina Liang-Lin and Edmund Lin, Govind Bommi, Yeo Suan Wei and Liontrust. “We believe that every act of giving is inspired by a story of life, values and experiences. Working with our donors and agency DDB, we brought these stories to life through a relatable and engaging campaign. Through these first-hand accounts of giving, we hope that others will realise that they too, have it in them to open their hearts and give back,” commented Yuen Yee Foong, Head of Marketing at CFS.

Launched across multiple media platforms including video, digital and print, the campaign runs from August to December 2018.

Reflecting upon a growing social consciousness amongst Singaporeans, Catherine Loh, CEO of CFS remarked, “I believe there are many others like our donors in Singapore who want to contribute back to society, but have not considered becoming philanthropists themselves. By sharing their stories on a larger platform, these donors show us what is possible.”

She added, “Their passion reminds us of the joy of giving, especially when giving resonates with causes we care about.”

Read and view ‘Portraits of generosity’ here.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit dolor

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”。

Related Topics For You: CHARITY STORIES, DONOR STORIES, NEWS, OPINION, STORIES OF IMPACT

admin bluecube

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book.

Opinion

Making collaboration a reality

John Doe

Collaboration for social change has been a hot topic of late. Collaboration’s appeal is apparent in a world beset by complex and evolving social issues — alone we can only do so much, but work together, and look at the change we can achieve.

In the same vein, Colabs, a philanthropic initiative by the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) and National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC), drives collaboration by bringing together the public, private and social sectors to tackle complex social issues. In particular, Colabs aims to empower givers to discover the roles they can play alongside existing efforts by government and non-profits.

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

Children dressed in bright costumes holding props while performing on stage

UBS Diversity in Abilities Concert – Celebrating the talents of children with special needs

Bright moon illuminating serene city park.

The Funding Network (TFN)

Colabs currently focuses on three groups: disadvantaged children and youth, persons with disabilities and seniors.

Our first group kicked off by taking a look at the issues facing disadvantaged young people. We were thrilled that a total of 115 individuals and 62 organisations came to share and learn. We discussed existing support for disadvantaged young persons, our present-day challenges, while opening up future opportunities to work together.

If collaboration is to move from a mere aspiration to a reality, we encourage everyone to seriously consider these factors.

Fostering trust
It is often said change moves at the speed of trust. Collaboration requires recognition of each others’ strengths, and a shift away from a competitive mindset. Establishing a clear and common agenda and openly communicating in a safe environment are essential elements in any collaborative effort.

Trust is the key to understanding each other, exchanging ideas and expertise and talking about challenges. On this foundation, we can build a body of knowledge and a culture of transparency for effective collaboration and outcomes we want to achieve.

A shared journey of equals
In the face of complex issues, it’s easy to think the solution lies with someone else. When we enter a collaboration, we need to believe change begins with us. If trust is the glue that keeps collaborative efforts together, then shared ownership and responsibility is the compass that guides our intentions.

To act in the best interests of people affected by social issues, we have to embark on a journey of equals, recognising every party brings unique assets and voices to the table. When the going gets tough — and it will — all parties in the collaboration must be committed to dedicating the resources necessary to deliver change.

Innovation is not new
Change often requires innovation, which isn’t necessarily about inventing something new, but about looking for better ways to do things. Collaboration offers us a diversity of knowledge and expertise to generate new insights and explore improved or more sustainable solutions.

At CFS, we count it a privilege to be able to facilitate the meeting of like-minded people who want to live and give meaningfully. The successes of enabling hope, realising aspirations and rebuilding lives with dignity in our communities are a result of many collaborations and partnerships between our donors and charities.

We are grateful to all our partners for adding to the richness of this journey through your presence, perspective, and perseverance in building a stronger community. The journey has just begun; the best is yet to be.

Joyce Teo
Deputy CEO
Community Foundation of Singapore

Related Topics For You: CHARITY STORIES, DONOR STORIES, NEWS, OPINION, STORIES OF IMPACT

admin bluecube

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.

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

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:

Ministry of Social and Family Development. (2022). Improving the lives of low-income and vulnerable families in Singapore. https://www.msf.gov.sg/docs/default-source/resources-document/improving-the-lives-of-low-income-and-vulnerable-families-in-singaporeaa9055cf8ac54de5b01b7f3999e451fe.pdf?sfvrsn=5f5518d4_2
National University of Singapore. (2019, March 26). Debt reduction improves psychological and cognitive function, enabling better decision-making. Retrieved from https://news.nus.edu.sg/debt-reduction-improves-psychological-and-cognitive-function-enabling-better-decision-making/

Related Topics For You: CHARITY STORIES, DONOR STORIES, NEWS, OPINION, STORIES OF IMPACT

News

Sayang Sayang Fund continues to appeal for donations

John Doe

In less than one week, the Fund received $450,000 in donations and pledges of about $900,000
The Fund aims to raise $3 million by end of April

Last Tuesday (7 April 2020), the Sayang Sayang Fund relaunched fund raising efforts to raise another $3 million to meet evolving and urgent needs of the community to complement the work of local public health, non-profit and government entities with emergency support during the ‘circuit breaker’. This is in addition to the $1.1 million raised since its launch in February.

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

Wheelchair-bound individuals enjoying a day at the zoo

Outing for Seniors Community Impact Fund – Bringing seniors out to improve their well-being

A woman tenderly assisting another women lying in a bed, providing care and support to ensure their well-being.

Migrants Emergency Assistance and Support (MEANS) Community Impact Fund – Helping migrant worker in need

Chief Executive Officer of the Community Foundation of Singapore, Ms Catherine Loh gave an update to the fund raising efforts, “In less than one week, thanks to donors from all walks of life, we have received $450,000 in donations. Of this, more than $100,000 was raised through online platforms like Giving.sg. In addition, CFS has received pledges of about $900,000. It is heart-warming that during this difficult time, Singaporeans continue to be generous and stand united to help those who are needy amongst us.”

Joining in to publicise the efforts of fund-raising were artistes like Taufik Batisah, Rui En, Joanna Dong, Irene Ang, Jeremy Monteiro, Gentle Bones, Simone Heng and Jack and Rai – who posted on their own social media platforms to encourage their followers to make donations.

Update on Recess@Home

One of the initiatives announced last Tuesday was Recess@Home, which aimed to provide immediate support for children from disadvantaged homes to have access to daily meals when they are learning at home during the national circuit breaker period.

The Ministry of Education (MOE) announced today that primary school students on the MOE Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) will receive a total of $60 each, while secondary school students on MOE FAS will receive a total of $120 each.

The Sayang Sayang Fund is happy to update that it will be partnering the Ministry of Education (MOE) and channel $500,000 to provide an additional support of $20 to primary school students. The School Smartcard can be used to purchase food and essential groceries at some hawker centres, food courts, minimarts, convenience stores and supermarkets.

Apart from the partnership with MOE, the Fund’s Recess@Home will continue to provide additional support to other needy students including those with special needs and in tertiary institutions.

New initiative: SeniorsOK@Home

The Sayang Sayang Fund has also confirmed a new initiative, SeniorsOK@Home, which it will embark on in partnership with the Agency for Integrated Care and healthcare-based charities. This initiative provides support for immediate and urgent aid to seniors stranded at home and in need of food, necessities and medical supplies. It also supports digital solutions, such as video conferencing, to continue delivering essential services for seniors at home and online recreational activities to minimise social isolation. In addition, it will fund precautionary measures such as disinfection and sanitisation of premises to maintain quality of care for charities who are providing essential community services to seniors during the circuit breaker period.

About Sayang Sayang Fund

The additional $3 million the Fund hopes to raise will support local charities and non-profits whose programmes and proposals meet three key objectives:

Support community-based emergency response funds that provide immediate and short-term support and relief for individuals and families from marginalised communities adversely affected by the COVID-19 situation.
Provide innovation solutions and research that address current and emerging needs and strategically fill gaps to combat the COVID-19 situation.
Build capabilities that transform operational and/or business continuity processes. This includes measures enabling charitable organisations to pivot service delivery and business models. The ultimate goal is to ensure that recipients continue to access essential support and assistance amid disruptions to programmes and activities.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit dolor

John Doe

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

Related Topics For You: CHARITY STORIES, DONOR STORIES, NEWS, OPINION, STORIES OF IMPACT

admin bluecube

News

The Straits Times: The new philanthropists in town

John Doe

by Theresa Tan, 26 June 2016

There is also a growing number of donors who have started charitable funds parked under groups like the Community Foundation of Singapore and the SymAsia Foundation. Both charities manage their donors’ funds and disburse them to each donor’s chosen causes, thus saving the donors the cost and effort of starting their own foundation. A sum of at least $200,000 is required to set up a charitable fund with the Community Foundation, and 82 funds have been formed since it was set up in 2008.

…..Also giving to a specific cause are Mr and Mrs William Bird. They pledged $1 million, through the Community Foundation of Singapore, for outings for frail seniors to attractions such as Gardens by the Bay and the zoo. Mr Bird, a Briton who is now a Singapore citizen, is 70 years old. He made his money from the logistics business. His and his wife Mary have three grown-up children.

Giving back to society without fuss, the Singaporean way

Goh Soon Tioe Centenary Fund – Nurturing future generations of musicians

A group of musicians passionately performing on stage, captivating the audience with their melodious tunes.

Celebrating the journey home through music

While visiting some elderly people whom they helped, the couple realised that such seniors felt lonely and isolated, as they were unable to go out. Mr Bird says: “We were affected by the fact that the seniors had such a poor quality of life, and thought more could be done for them to enjoy the golden times of their lives.”

Each year since the Outing for the Elderly Fund was set up in 2010, about 1,600 elderly people a year have benefited. They especially love to visit supermarkets, where they are given $20 to buy whatever they want.

Mr George Phua, a 79-year-old resident of the Ling Kwang Home for Senior Citizens, was taken to a Giant supermarket last month. He was delighted to buy his favourite coffee and chocolates. He tells The Sunday Times: “It’s wonderful.”

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit dolor

John Doe

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