Singapore Aims for 70% Volunteerism Rate by Next Year Through Innovative Programs
SINGAPORE: Volunteerism is on the rise in Singapore as the nation works towards its ambitious goal of achieving a 70% volunteerism rate by next year. This target, which community leaders believe is attainable, is supported by new initiatives designed to attract and retain volunteers, particularly among the youth who are increasingly engaged in social causes.
Volunteers are a vital resource in the humanitarian and charity sectors, contributing significantly to numerous initiatives without which many programs would not be viable. On December 5, International Volunteer Day, the Ministry of Health highlighted the indispensable role of volunteers, emphasizing their commitment and impact.
Importance of Volunteers
Ms. Charis Chan, Director of Global Engagement for the Singapore Red Cross, stated that approximately 80% of the organization’s programs rely on volunteers. These include critical services like blood donation drives, disaster response efforts, and support for vulnerable families, children, and the elderly.
“We could not achieve our outreach without our dedicated volunteers, especially following the COVID pandemic, which has expanded our mission,” she noted. “Many volunteers believe strongly in our cause and the people we serve.”
Ms. Michelle Chew, a member of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Youth Commission for the Asia Pacific, echoed this sentiment. She emphasized the day’s significance in promoting volunteerism and encouraging more individuals to participate. “Volunteers are often the best equipped to understand their communities’ needs and respond effectively during emergencies,” she explained.
Different Age Groups of Volunteers
Volunteers in Singapore span all age groups, categorized into three main demographics. The first group comprises youth, many of whom are introduced to volunteering through co-curricular activities in school. Ms. Chan remarked, “They are instilled with humanitarian values and often continue to volunteer after their education, making significant contributions through first aid response and overseas missions.”
Ms. Chew started her volunteering journey at 13 and has dedicated the last decade to helping those less privileged, learning invaluable lessons about diverse backgrounds and shared humanity along the way.
The second group consists of individuals in their mid-40s who seek opportunities to give back to the community and possess relevant skills that can enhance the Red Cross’s initiatives. The final group includes retirees in their mid-50s and beyond who are eager to remain active and engaged.
Youth Volunteers
The motivations for youth volunteering vary widely, with Ms. Chew noting that over half of the IFRC’s volunteer base is comprised of young people. She emphasizes the importance of having a dedicated voice for youth within the organization, as they often work on the ground, serving their communities but frequently lack representation in decision-making processes.
The changing landscape has seen increased openness towards youth participation in community discussions. However, Ms. Chew cautioned against tokenism, urging that youth involvement should not just be symbolic.
70% Target
Singapore is striving to increase its volunteerism rate to 70% by next year to address its aging population. This goal, announced in 2018, aims to double the rate from 35% in 2016. Ms. Chan believes this objective is not only noble but achievable.
The Singapore Red Cross has recently introduced a program to help onboard more volunteers, equipping them with essential skills such as standard first aid and psychological first aid in just two weekends. “While many want to contribute, we must ensure they are adequately trained before engaging them on the ground,” she stated.
Ms. Chew highlighted that the pandemic has inspired many to volunteer, making the 70% target more reachable. “Volunteerism can take many forms, and with the rise of digital platforms, organizations must adapt to contemporary trends to engage a broader audience.”
