A simple act of kindness sparked David Setiawan’s enduring commitment to volunteering with Singapore Children’s Society for over a decade.
His love for three children, Jun Hao*, Xin Yi* and Min Yi* who reside at Sunbeam Place @ Children’s Society motivated him to continue volunteering. Together, they built up a cherished treasure chest of shared memories. His story, which started through the Sunbeam Befriender Programme, has been filled with heartfelt connections and joy in giving.
Here is what David has to say about his inspiring journey as a volunteer with Children’s Society.
What inspired you to volunteer with us?
In 2009, I came across a New Paper article titled: “Accountant’s sudden death leaves wife to cope with three young kids.” The story of the three children deeply moved me, and I felt compelled to help. I contacted the reporter and reached out to support the family. At the time, Jun Hao was just 8 years old, Xin Yi was 6 years old and Min Yi was 5 years old. Soon after, the mother also passed away due to a sudden fatal illness. This was the beginning of my connection with them and my journey as a volunteer, which grew stronger as I became more involved in their lives as a befriender at Sunbeam Place @ Children’s Society. We would meet before Chinese New Year and Hari Raya, during school holidays and whenever my schedule permitted. We met over meals and outings such as movies and excursions, among other activities.
Apart from being a befriender at Sunbeam Place, I collaborated with the Home on other Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities as I was the CSR person in charge of my Department at Nanyang Technological University (NTU). I helped to organise an excursion to the S.E.A Aquarium and Trick Eye Museum for my colleagues and the residents, fulfilling the Christmas gift wishes of the residents.
Are there any memorable experiences you encountered when you were volunteering with us?
Yes, there have been memorable experiences and I am thankful for them! The organised excursions to the S.E.A. Aquarium and the Trick Eye Museum for the residents brought much joy and excitement to all who participated.
Additionally, fulfilling the residents’ Christmas gift wishes added a heartfelt touch to the festive season.
Witnessing the sheer happiness on their faces during the outings and seeing their delight as they received their Christmas gifts was truly priceless and deeply heartwarming. Such moments serve as a beautiful reminder of the impact of thoughtful gestures and shared experiences.
Tell us a challenge that you encountered while volunteering and what did you do to overcome it?
As the Department’s CSR person-in-charge, I received many requests from my colleagues to provide Christmas gifts of a monetary value exceeding the guidelines advised by Sunbeam Place, as well as to give additional gifts beyond those specified by Sunbeam Place’s residents.
In such instances, I found it necessary to consult the staff from Sunbeam Place to determine whether these suggestions could be accommodated. Subsequently, I took the time to patiently explain to my colleagues why, despite their good intentions, such ideas might not be appropriate or beneficial for the residents. I needed to ensure that the initiative remained meaningful and impactful by aligning with Sunbeam Place’s guidelines and being sensitive to my colleagues’ feelings.
What would you say to encourage more people like you to come forward to volunteer?
Watching these three children grow into mature, responsible and joyful young adults over the past decade with Sunbeam Place has been incredibly heartwarming. Jun Hao is now proudly serving his national service in Civil Defence as a firefighter, Xin Yi is continuing her journey in tertiary education and Min Yi is finishing his studies at the Polytechnic this year and training in the national ball sport team. Volunteering with Sunbeam Place provides an extraordinary opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of children who may not enjoy the same privileges as their peers—children who face the challenges of growing up without the unwavering support of loving parents.
David Setiawan’s journey as a volunteer with Children’s Society is a powerful testament to the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of others. His story is a reminder of the incredible difference we can make by reaching out to those in need, showing kindness and supporting the growth and well-being of children facing adversity.
If you are passionate about making a difference, we offer a variety of volunteer opportunities for you to get involved as an individual or as a company. Click here to get started.
*Names have been changed to protect the identity of our service users
Click here to read the story in Chinese.
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