- SG Cares Giving Week 2023 concluded with a joyous celebration of more than 160 passionate volunteers recognised by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the Istana, in conjunction with International Volunteer Day.
- Themed ‘Just Give Lah!’, SG Cares Giving Week this year joined forces with over 280 Giving Partners, comprising both companies and non-profit organisations.
Singapore, 7 December 2023 – In conjunction with International Volunteer Day, the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC), together with the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) and Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY)’s SG Cares Office, celebrated today the inspiring efforts of more than 160 of Singapore’s most passionate volunteers. Honouring their dedication to giving to others, the celebration recognised the heart and passion of these notable individuals and featured a networking opportunity between these volunteers and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who graced the event.
The gathering provided these passionate volunteers with an opportunity to share inspirational stories from their volunteering journeys, connect with like-minded individuals, and be recognised for their contributions to Singapore. Some of the volunteers in attendance included a mother-daughter pair, who channelled the help that they received into volunteering action. There were also stories of corporate and long-time volunteers, who either used their knowledge and skills to give back to society or have sustained their volunteering efforts over a significant period of time, with some extending beyond decades. For more information on the highlighted volunteers, refer to Annex A.
This heartwarming gathering was held for the first time as part of SG Cares Giving Week, which ignited the festive season with a celebration of the giving spirit. Organised by NVPC, in collaboration with NCSS and SG Cares Office, SG Cares Giving Week is now in its fourth edition and took place from 1st to 7th December 2023.
This year’s theme, ‘Just Give Lah!’, galvanises individuals, organisations, non-profit entities, and the broader community to embark on a unique giving experience during the holidays.
“Care for others is key to a thriving community. The enthusiastic participation of individuals, non-profit organisations, and corporates during the SG Cares Giving Week is heartening. I encourage everyone to give of your time, talent or treasure this SG Cares Giving Week. Every act of giving builds a more united and caring Singapore,” said Minister for Culture, Community and Youth & Second Minister for Law, Edwin Tong.
“By celebrating our passionate volunteers during International Volunteer Day, we hope to inspire more people to volunteer and contribute to fostering a society where everyone gives their best for others. SG Cares Giving Week is an invitation to all Singaporeans to join the giving movement, where we come together to uplift lives, strengthen communities and build our shared future,” said Mr Tony Soh, CEO of NVPC.
Transform Thought into Action Through an Abundance of Giving Opportunities
Throughout SG Cares Giving Week, corporate partners engaged in various initiatives to give back. One such example is the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (AmChamSG), which for the first time ever, galvanised more than 50 companies to participate in Giving Week. There were also several activities held across the month of December for members of the public to engage in giving activities. For more information about Partner Highlights on SG Cares Giving Week, refer to Annex B.
Ms Tan Li San, Chief Executive, National Council of Social Service, said “NCSS firmly believes that no act of giving or volunteering is too small. We are therefore happy to note the many opportunities available for individuals to contribute and make a difference at this year’s SG Cares Giving Week. We hope that individuals and corporates will contribute to the sector regularly and over the long term. This approach of sustainable philanthropy will help us overcome challenges in the social service sector, and ensure that Singaporeans who need support are well served today and in the future.”
For more information about SG Cares Giving Week 2023, visit www.givingweek.sg.
