A foundation named after Singapore-born coal tycoon Low Tuck Kwong is the top private giver in a list of Singapore’s 10 biggest philanthropic organisations in terms of donations given.The Low Tuck Kwong Foundation, set up in December 2022, gave $127.6 million in 2023 to educational and healthcare causes.
A tech investor was shocked to find out that his majie, or nanny, left him her life savings of close to $100,000 when she died.To honour her, the 41-year-old, who wanted to be known only as Mr Lim, used the money to set up a charitable fund in her name with the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) in 2023.
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.
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?
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.
Michael Binger relocated to Singapore in 2007 in search of fresh professional opportunities and a change of scenery. Now, sixteen years on, the ex-Vice President of South APAC at Under Armour has not only built a thriving business but also embarked on a meaningful journey of philanthropy, to make a lasting impact in the local community.Finding a Home in Singapore
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.
Charities often struggle to secure funding for capacity and capability building, as donors tend to prioritise direct programme support over long-term infrastructure development. Yet, enhancing these areas is crucial for sustaining financial health, delivering effective and reliable services, and increasing their overall impact. Recognising this, the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) partnered with the Bluejacket Foundation in November 2022 to launch a two-year pilot initiative—the Capacity and Capability Building Grant—designed to support growth of charities and equip them for greater community contributions.The grant currently supports six charities, assisting them in retaining and recruiting essential talent, optimising resources, boosting efficiency, and expanding their impact.
We are pleased to share our 2024 Annual Report, celebrating The Community Foundation of Singapore’s 15th anniversary. This year’s report outlines our progress over the years, and reinforces our firm commitment to being the community foundation focused on uplifting and supporting communities across Singapore.A Year of Exceptional Grantmaking
In celebration of their 55th Anniversary, the Insurance and Financial Practitioners Association of Singapore (IFPAS) extended their commitment to the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) by pledging an additional $200,000 over the next five years to their donor-advised fund (DAF), named the ‘IFPAS Love Fund’.At the handshake ceremony between CFS and IFPAS, IFPAS President, Mr Ng Eng Beow, expressed his gratitude and vision for the partnership. He said, “Insurance is rooted in love. Love motivates us to protect ourselves and our loved ones. The IFPAS Love Fund was established seven years ago to channel our love to the wider community, and CFS has been our trusted partner in reaching out to those who need our help and support. We appreciate this collaboration, and we are excited for the future possibilities.”
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