Taking a trip down memory lane

On Saturday 22 July, volunteers from 10 corporations, organisations and schools met with over 160 beneficiaries from 10 Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWOs) to enjoy a concert and carnival at the Asian Civilisations Museum. Organised by YMCA of Singapore, YMCA Proms @ the Park 2017 attracted about 600 people to the event, including members of public. Deputy Prime Minister & Coordinating Minister for National Security, Mr Teo Chee Hean, was the guest of honour at the event.

DPM Teo said, “Events like today’s, bring together people from all walks of life for a meaningful cause to spread cheer to those who are less fortunate. We can contribute in different capacities, care for one another and contribute to a more caring Singapore.”

Besides participating in the carnival games and concert, the beneficiaries got to marvel at the city’s beautiful scenery and skyline as they travelled past iconic sights on a bumboat ride. The beneficiaries also went on a guided tour of Asian Civilisations Museum, which was led by volunteers in a bid to encourage social bonding and enhance their social skills through a shared heritage. The volunteers were trained and equipped by National Heritage Board with the necessary knowledge and skillsets to facilitate the programme, which was specially tailored to the needs of the beneficiaries.

YMCA Proms @ the Park seeks to promote corporate social responsibility by matching organisations with VWOs, with the aim of bringing cheer to the beneficiaries through an afternoon of music and games in a carnival-like setting. Prior to the festivities at the carnival grounds, the volunteers will tour the respective VWOs which their organisations are matched with to gain a better understanding of the needs and challenges faced by the beneficiaries.

"At DHL, corporate responsibility is at the heart of our business and we make it our focus to contribute to our society and make a difference in as many ways as possible. We are glad to be part of this event again in 2017, as part of our ongoing support for YMCA of Singapore,” said Sham Alexandra, Managing Director, DHL eCommerce Singapore Country Office.

“At ARA, we believe that a successful company is not only defined by its business achievements, but also by the positive role it plays in the communities that it operates in. We have supported various charitable initiatives, and working with YMCA of Singapore is one of the ways to reach out to the under-served segments of society. Through this carnival, we hope to bring fun to the beneficiaries and touch their lives in one way or another. As a premier real estate fund manager, we are committed to the sustainable growth of our business, including cultivating a strong sense of corporate social responsibility in our staff,” said Ms Cheryl Seow, Assistant Group CEO, ARA Asset Management Limited.

Mr Leslie Wong, President, YMCA of Singapore said, “This year, YMCA of Singapore celebrates 115 years of service to the community. We strive to remain true to our founding principles, affirming our purpose as a volunteer-based Christian organisation and continuing to serve the community with love through our various programmes. YMCA Proms @ the Park is one such platform through which volunteers discover the privilege and joy of spending time with beneficiaries as one community.”

YMCA Proms @ the Park is in support of the 2017 President’s Challenge Volunteer Drive.

Click here to view more photos of YMCA Proms @ the Park 2017.