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Making a Difference, One Giving Circle at a Time

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Meet Adelle Tay, Head of Philanthropy Innovation & Partnerships at NVPC.

 

Guided by her personal motto to ‘make a difference in the lives of others,’ Adelle joined the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC) in 2023, recognising it as a place to bring this vision to life.

 

“If everyone strived to make a difference in the lives of others, our world would definitely be a better place,” she says. “In an ideal world, the social service sector could even work itself out of a job!”

A Whirlwind of Purpose and People

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Adelle (third from right) and the Community Leadership & Partnerships team at the launch of Guide to Impact Measurement: From Intent to Impact for Non-Profits.

A typical day in Adelle’s life is a lively mix of emails, meetings, and events — punctuated by fun chats and shared meals with colleagues. What motivates her most is the belief that her work matters, alongside the energy of a supportive team. She also admits that fruits and snacks in the office pantry helps get her through the workday.

Creating Impact Through Giving Circles

One of Adelle’s proudest achievements has been leading NVPC’s Giving Circles initiative. A giving circle is a group of people who come together, pool resources, and make joint decisions to support those in need.

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Adelle (third from right, back row) together with a Giving Circle supporting a family in need

Since the pilot launched in 2023, Adelle has kickstarted more than 15 circles — each one paired with a family in need. Beyond financial help, these circles have become communities of care. “I’ve seen first-hand how circle members and the families they support build genuine relationships,” Adelle shares. “A group of strangers can become lifelong friends.”

She recalls the very first meetup for one of the circles, “I remember wondering how it would turn out. Long story short, a year later, their bond is stronger than ever.”

A Culture That Nurtures Growth

For Adelle, NVPC’s culture is supportive, vibrant, and fun-loving. Despite coming from different backgrounds and personalities, everyone is united by a passion for the work they do. The organisation also invests in its people — giving Adelle the opportunity to pilot innovative projects, attend workshops, and grow her expertise in philanthropy advisory, impact measurement, and more.

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Adelle hosting a Giving Circles workshop in the NVPC office

Her professional milestones include producing a Giving Circles Action Guide and hosting a workshop for over 80 people. Personally, she has built meaningful friendships with colleagues and even found more ways to give back through volunteering.

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Adelle hosting a Giving Circles workshop in the NVPC office

“To me, NVPC is where I can put my personal values of helping others into action.” Adelle says. “It’s definitely fulfilling to witness change up close, where we don’t just transform the lives of those in need, but also the hearts of those who give.”

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Adelle hosting a Giving Circles workshop in the NVPC office

Her professional milestones include producing a Giving Circles Action Guide and hosting a workshop for over 80 people. Personally, she has built meaningful friendships with colleagues and even found more ways to give back through volunteering.

“To me, NVPC is where I can put my personal values of helping others into action.” Adelle says. “It’s definitely fulfilling to witness change up close, where we don’t just transform the lives of those in need, but also the hearts of those who give.”