Unlike charities, ground-up movements are not registered entities like charities, so that means less red tape. They are in no way any less organised, but they usually have more unusual ways of giving back. Here are six movements you can join:
1. Project Intan
The Intan is a private home museum filled with all things Peranakan. It also home to Project Intan, which organises fundraising events for local charities.
Once a year, guests are invited to a party at the museum where they can enjoy good food, learn about Peranakan culture and do good at the same time.
In 2017, Project Intan is supporting Beyond Social Services, a charity dedicated to helping less privileged children and youths.
The movement is also the Kampong Spirit winner in the President’s Volunteerism & Philanthropy Awards 2016.
2. Happy People Helping People
It’s a common sight in heartland Singapore – the elderly poor pushing their carts and collecting cardboard in our unforgiving weather in return for a few dollars a day.
To help them, Happy People Helping People buys them meals. They pay food stall owners for a month’s worth of meals in advance, and issue stamp cards to these cardboard collectors. The group also organises a monthly ‘Happy Sunday’ gathering, where they provide food and companionship to the elderly folk.
3. Runninghour
Want to get fit and do good at the same time? Then Runninghour, an inclusive running club where those with special needs run alongside able-bodied people, is just the right outfit for you.
Sign up with the group as a running guide. Training will be provided, so anyone who is passionate about running – and helping others – can join.
4. Kapor Chatparty
Kapor Chatparty (a play on the word chapati, an Indian flatbread) provides creative excuses for the diverse groups of migrant workers in Little India to gather and engage in free community arts activities.
Activities include Rangoli art workshops, do-it-youself facials and a bindi roadside spa.
The initiative was organised by the Octopus Residency, a ground-up movement started in June 2016 to foster a greater sense of community in Little India.
5. Pause for A Cause
Ever wanted to dress up like your favourite superhero? You can do so and bring smiles to the faces to a group of special kids by being part of Pause for A Cause, Singapore’s first cosplay volunteer group.
From hospital visits to birthday parties, the group have reached out to countless families, friends and strangers through cosplay since 2013.
6. Cycling Without Age
Ah, the feeling of wind in your hair and watching the world go by. Isn’t that one of life’s greatest feelings? Cycling Without Agewants to bring this simple pleasure to our pioneer generation.
Rent one of their trishaws for free, and take seniors out for a trip around Singapore. It’s also a great chance to hear stories of Singapore’s past from these pioneers.
