At 68, Mrs Tay-Oh Siew Hoe shines as a beloved presence at Bright Hill Evergreen Home. Since 1998, she has enriched the lives of elderly residents with activities like Lego building, lively conversations, and shared meals, infusing warmth and joy into every interaction.
Meanwhile, Lois Anne Zitzow, 59, brings joy to welfare home residents through Be Kind SG’s monthly crafting, singing and dancing activities. Her volunteering has enriched her life and allowed her to foster a kinder, more inclusive society.
As they enter their golden years, volunteers like Mrs. Tay and Lois cultivate a culture of compassion and service, proving that it’s never too late to make a difference. Read on to learn more about their stories.
A 26-Year Journey of Volunteering: Mrs Tay’s Story at Bright Hill Evergreen Home
How did you come to be part of Bright Hill Evergreen in 1998?
It all started after my youngest son entered secondary school. Suddenly, I found myself with some free time, and I wanted to do something meaningful. I happened to hear about the volunteering programme on the radio from the National Council of Social Service, and something about it sparked my interest. I decided to sign up, and as fate would have it, the closest charity to my home was Bright Hill Evergreen Home (BHEH), nestled on Bright Hill Road.
I remember receiving the letter from the Council in 1998—it marked the beginning of a precious journey for me.
My first few days were spent helping in the kitchen, but it didn’t feel like the right fit for me. I was unsure if I should continue, but then, one of the staff suggested trying something different: becoming a befriender. Intrigued by the idea, I eagerly embraced the role and began connecting with the residents, creating many cherished memories along the way.
As a befriender, I got the chance to interact with the residents on a much more personal level. I formed friendships with other volunteers, and together we would cook, play games, and engage the residents in activities that brought them joy. Sometimes, I found myself coming to the Home two or even three times a week, just to spend time with the residents who have grown so dear to me.
What do you find most fulfilling about being a befriender?
One aspect is how the residents remember me so clearly. They associate me with pastries—whenever they see them being delivered, they know Mrs. Tay has arrived. It’s a simple but heartwarming connection. Sometimes, they eagerly anticipate my visits, especially when I bring new clothes for them!
One resident I became particularly close to was Uncle Phillip. His eyesight wasn’t the best, but he loved playing Double 9. Despite his blurry vision, he played with such enthusiasm, and it brought him so much joy.
For many of the residents, especially those without family, I’ve become someone they can confide in. I listen to their stories and chat with them as though they were my own family. Treating them with kindness brings them immense comfort and happiness.
What motivates you to continue volunteering with Bright Hill Evergreen Home for more than 26 years?
There’s a quote I’ll never forget, shared by a stranger I met once while traveling to Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery: “It’s always better to give than to receive.” He was just a random driver, but his words have stayed with me throughout these many years of volunteering.
Being a part of the team of volunteer befrienders at Bright Hill Evergreen Home is fulfilling in so many ways. We’re not just helping the staff run the home; we’re providing emotional support, companionship, and personal connections for the residents—many of whom may not have family to rely on. Knowing that I’m making a difference in their lives keeps me coming back, year after year. I treasure the bonds I’ve formed with both residents and fellow volunteers.
Are there any memorable encounters that have stayed with you?
There have been so many unforgettable moments. I’ll always remember Auntie Ah Qing, who eagerly awaited my visits, even as her health began to decline. The warmth and anticipation she showed were deeply touching. Then there’s Uncle Tan, who used to jokingly call me his “girlfriend” for years—it always made me smile.
I also have a soft spot for sewing, and over the years, I’ve sewn batik clothes for the residents, which they absolutely love. For Vesak Day fundraising events, I sewed bags and other accessories to support the home. Knowing that my small contributions could make such a big difference has been incredibly rewarding.
Sometimes, I bring pastries for the residents, and their gratitude fills my heart. It’s these little moments of happiness, when I can offer them something simple yet special, that make me feel like I’m truly making a difference.
Besides being a befriender, have you contributed to Bright Hill Evergreen Home in other ways?
Yes, in addition to my role as a befriender, I’ve also made efforts to encourage others to donate to the Home. Whether through word-of-mouth or expanding my personal network, I’ve connected with like-minded individuals who are willing to support BHEH financially.
I also spend time playing Mahjong with the residents—a game they truly enjoy. In fact, there was an instance when a resident entrusted me with money to purchase a gold chain for him. It was a small but significant gesture, and it made me feel so valued, knowing that the residents trust me wholeheartedly. Moments like these remind me of the deep bonds we’ve formed over the years, and I’m incredibly grateful for the trust they’ve placed in me.
Spreading Joy in Singapore: Lois’ Heartwarming Experience
What was it like for you to move from the United States to Singapore?
I moved to Singapore in 2019 to work with the National University of Singapore. Initially, settling in and making friends was a challenge, especially as the pandemic hit and slowed down my social activities.
In 2022, I discovered Be Kind SG while helping a friend lead a Zumba session for residents at an adult disability home. As a certified Zumba instructor, I was thrilled to put my skills to good use! The residents’ excitement and joy during our sessions were incredibly rewarding, and witnessing their smiles made a lasting impact on me.
Tell us about your volunteering experiences with Be Kind SG.
As a volunteer, I visit the Moral Welfare Home and Thye Hua Kwan Home for the Disabled each month. Our activities range from arts and crafts to guitar and piano sessions, karaoke, dancing, and even fun outings around Singapore. One of my favourite memories is taking the residents on double-decker bus rides around Orchard Road to admire the Christmas lights. One resident sweetly expressed her desire to sit next to me, which made me feel a special bond with her.
These activities help keep the residents occupied, giving them activities to do so that they’re not bored on the weekends.
During residential home visits, I’m usually involved with the dance activities so residents will recognise me and ask me if I was going to dance. And it’s exciting to see them get interested to know that we’re going to do that and that they’re looking forward to it. I was bonding more and more with the residents and the activities!
How has volunteering helped you integrate into Singapore?
It has introduced me to a diverse array of people and allowed me to connect with like-minded volunteers. The big-hearted and wonderful individuals I’ve met through Be Kind SG have enriched my experience and helped me feel more connected to Singapore.
I’ve always tried to volunteer and give back as it was something that my mom instilled into my family. It was something we did together as a family back home.
Reaching out to people and trying to make them feel better, it makes me feel like I’m part of a community, instead of just being a bystander who is just passing through. I find it amazing that the residents and fellow volunteers I’ve met are so open and willing to share much about themselves with me, having lived here all their lives. It has really enhanced my sense of belonging here.
Are there any memorable encounters during your volunteering?
There are so many! When we visit the homes, the residents are just so happy to see you and they’re all saying, hi, hi. They want to shake your hand. They want us to wave at you. They want to fist bump you. They want to high five you and they’re just so happy that we’re there to spend time with them.
One unforgettable moment was during a jazz performance, a group of older gentlemen invited me over to their table. One of them was looking down at his lap, which was normal for him because he was very shy. His friend said that he wanted to dance with me. I had never seen this resident stand up, so assuming that he wasn’t very mobile, I took his hands and started to dance with him while he was still in his chair. He looked up, surprised me by standing up, and started dancing with me. His face lit up with the biggest smile I have ever seen on anyone ever! That dance not only made his day, but it also made mine, and I will always remember it.
I think that’s one of the things that keeps me coming back is that just by being there, I know that I’m making them happy and they’re very transparent about it.
Would you recommend volunteering to others who are considering it?
Absolutely! Volunteering has broadened my horizons, allowing me to meet kind-hearted people from all walks of life. It has really opened my eyes more to what being Singaporean is. It’s a wonderful way to make a positive impact, even with something as simple as a smile. Making someone else feel good, or finding people in need and being able to give back to them has enriched my life tremendously. So, yes, I would definitely recommend it.
Inspired to make a difference through volunteering? Hop over to www.giving.sg to explore volunteering opportunities and bring joy to the underserved amongst our communities.
