Club Rainbow (Singapore) Family Retreat 2023

This year, Club Rainbow (Singapore) (CRS) is back with our annual family cruise trip this year! The specially curated event is open to all CRS beneficiaries and their immediate family members only. To ensure that all families get the opportunity to be part of the Club Rainbow Family Retreat experience, priority was given to families who have not been on any CRS-organised overseas family retreat event or cruise in the past. 

During this 4D3N cruise getaway, the workshops and activities organised by CRS on board were for the beneficiaries and families to unwind, learn and forge new friendships.

Our first stop of the getaway, was at Toa Payoh Safra, our families and beneficiaries gathered and play some ice-breaker activities. The different activities had both our beneficiaries and their family members to get up and about to complete their Bingo Sheet. A little competitive spirit is always good, as the families compete against each other to see which team is able to build the tallest structure.

One of the highlights of the 3-Day programme is the self-care programme for the caregivers on Day 2. The session was well received by caregivers, with many sharing that it was very calming, the programme allowed them to self-reflect and open up a new perspective as they look forward in the future. Shared by one of the immediate families of our beneficiaries, “ It is good to have some me time and to self reflect, the activities were useful for us to get back in touch with ourselves and learned that i can be a pillar for my children and at the same time be myself” .

One of the popular activities from the programme is called “Our Wishing Star”, a DIY keychain with folded stars carrying the wishes and hopes that the parents have for their children. Many found that the wishing star was a good and simple way to give their best wishes and hopes to their kids.

Ending the Day 2 programs with a session on self-reflection, our caregivers wrote post cards to themselves. A number of the caregivers has expressed that it allowed them to get to know themselves even better. “ Reflective and recognize our own achievements” shared by one of the caregivers. Sharing a similar mindset, Mdm Ong shared “ they unleash our emotions, thoughts and allows us to express in our own ways.”

The last day activity called for good teamwork, family bonding and getting their creative juices flowing with Club Rainbow Fashion Show! “ Our family had fun and enjoyed bonding time together! ” said Mdm Ong. Through the activity, caregivers have also learned something about their kid that they did not know before. “ My children has a very good team oriented personal” shared by one of the caregivers of our CRS beneficiary.

Through this family retreat, all families have shared that it was a good and fun experience as they got to spend time together as a family, became more close knitted than ever before and also had a enjoyable time participating in the different activities and meeting other Club Rainbow families.

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Charity Transparency Award 2023

The Charity Transparency Award (CTA), in its 9th year, continues to recognise charities with good disclosure practices and excellent work of charities while inspiring others to emulate their practices. Club Rainbow was awarded the Charity Transparency Awards in 2018, 2019 and 2022. 

This year 2023, we are proud to share that we are being awarded the Charity Transparency Award once again!

Special Commendation Award for Operational Efficiency

Not only that, for the first time, Club Rainbow (Singapore) has been awarded a Special Commendation Award for Operational Efficiency, the award is only handed out to 5 charities this year and we are proud to be one of the charities to receive the award.  

In our efforts of achieving operational efficiency, our Management Council is committed to regularly reviewing its own effectiveness that that of the Club. Doing regular self-assessment and performance evaluations are crucial to ensure that we are progressing efficiently towards achieving our mission and vision to serve our beneficiaries and their families effectively. 

Adopting the Skills assessment Matrix and 360 Feedback provides us the panoramic view of the skill sets and experience among the members. Evaluative insights derived from the Skills Assessment Matrix are critical in building a diverse foundation and addressing potential gaps from leadership and management to niche skills. 

Also using the Impact Metrics, a family of measures critical to the success of our mission and key indicators are clearly defined to track operational effectiveness and efficiency. Measuring the staff capacity and mobilisation of resources in client engagement, the efficacy of programmes and the intervention strategies and the impact through the improvements in our beneficiaries and families’ quality of life allows us to progress towards our mission and vision. 

With constant benchmarking and regular networking with previous years, other social service agencies, charities in social media engagement, allows a better understanding of our performance and gaps in our service models, allowing us to improve our beneficiaries’ quality of life as well as our media content. 

In an era where transparency and accountability are paramount in the charity sector, being able to measure and communicate the impact of our efforts is essential. By implementing the Impact Metric, it has given us a deeper sense of purpose, provided external stakeholders with a clearer understanding of the impact that Club Rainbow has on the lives of our beneficiaries and their families

Celebrating Heroes 2023: Beacon of Hope

365 DAYS, 4 COMMENDABLE SIBLINGS, 3 SELFLESS CAREGIVERS AND 1 OUTSTANDING SIBLING WITH ONE COMMON MOTIVATION – A LOVED ONE.

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Celebrating Heroes, an original event by Club Rainbow (Singapore) has been honouring countless caregivers and siblings over the decade. Taking a hiatus from 2021, we continue to recognise these heroes walking in our midst.

Starting as Caregivers Appreciation Day, the event evolved to Celebrating Heroes (CH) in 2015, where the first Exemplary Caregiver Award was presented. Whilst the common saying goes ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ but the most important support comes together as a family unit. Siblings are often forgettable when immediate priorities surround children with chronic illnesses. Acknowledging these young ones as part of the core support system of the family, we appreciate outstanding siblings too who share the daily responsibilities of caring for their brother or sister together with their parents.

Exemplary Caregiver Awardees Panel Discussion

This year, we received numerous nominations for many caregivers and siblings from all walks of life and even ages. After many tear-jerking encounters from the interviews with nominated caregivers and siblings, we are proud to share this year’s Celebrating Heroes 2023: The Beacons of Hope – 1 commendable sibling, 3 selfless caregivers and 4 outstanding siblings! These awardees are true representatives of the many caregivers and siblings of Club Rainbow who give their time selflessly to their loved ones.

Joanna Yap and her daughter Amelia, Exemplary Caregiver Awardee

Meet Joanna Yap, mother to Amelia and one of the Exemplary Caregiver Awardees. To help Amelia reach her fullest potential, she spares no expenses in finding activities, interventions and different resources that will be able to enrich Amelia in her swimming abilities and baking skills. From enlisting the help of her friends to impart baking skills and bible knowledge to Amelia so that she will be able to learn things that are outside of her school curriculum. To developing Amelia’s passion in baking and now enrolled in a pastry course in Delta Senior School.

She has done a lot beyond just being a mother; ensuring that Amelia works towards the goal of becoming a national swimmer; becoming a kindergarten teacher so she could be better equipped to teach Amelia.

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Exemplary Sibling Awardee, Wen Xin

As much as Wen Xin remembers, her brother was born normal and she always loved playing with him, taking care of him and being the older sister. At the age of 6, Wen Jie was diagnosed with a rare condition, leukodystrophy. He then received a bone marrow transplant operation: however, after the operation his condition deteriorated and began to lose his speech, sight and physical ability.

Wen Xin shows great responsibility in caring for Wen Jie especially when their parents are not around, Watching her brother’s lost of ability first hand at a young age has caused her lots of distress growing up, needing the help of art therapy. However, she uses these experiences to share and help others who are going through similar situations.

Now at the age of 18, Wen Xin is one of the- Exemplary Sibling Awardees. She is helping Wen Jie with his daily needs like suctioning and NGT feeding. She is not only able to take care of Wen Jie but her other younger brother as well. She is also a part of our programme, Youths for Rare, where she took part in a human library project with NUS and NTU school of medicine where she shared her journey with Wen Jie to medical students, showing great determination and courage to fight alongside her brother.

To hear more of our awardees, watch the Celebrating Heroes 2023 videos here:

Exemplary Caregiver Award 2023

Exemplary Sibling Award 2023

SkateForGood Fundraiser

Speaking with Johan, a team member of SkateForGood fundraiser, we learned what
drives him to give back to the community. 

CRS: How did you find out about Club Rainbow (Singapore)?

Johan: We learned about Club Rainbow (Singapore) through conversations with various acquaintances. Their passion and dedication to supporting children and families facing chronic illnesses inspired us to delve deeper into their mission. "Skate For Good," our charitable initiative, combines our love for skating with a powerful purpose of making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. For every kilometer we skate, we strive to generate one dollar in donations, all dedicated to supporting Club Rainbow's work.

CRS: What motivated or inspired you to start a fundraiser for us?

 Johan: Our team of volunteers, connected by our shared love for Distance Skateboarding (also known as Long Distance Pushing or LDP), understands the positive impact our sport can have. We recognise that not everyone has equal opportunities, and despite our efforts to be inclusive, some may still face challenges. Distance skateboarding has taught us the invaluable lesson of confronting adversity head-on. Witnessing the incredible resilience and strength exhibited by Club Rainbow's beneficiaries in the face of adversity deeply moved us. This inspired a strong desire to contribute meaningfully. We firmly believe that every child deserves a chance at happiness and a fulfilling life. Supporting Club Rainbow's mission became our way of turning that belief into reality.

CRS: Have you encountered any challenges in your fundraising journey and how did you overcome those challenges?

Johan: Indeed, our fundraising journey was not without its share of challenges. At the outset, there were individuals who were initially hesitant to fully embrace our vision and idea. However, we were fortunate to have on board volunteers who not only dedicated their time & guidance.

Navigating the logistics and coordination of the fundraiser was another significant hurdle, especially since it was a grassroots initiative. Adapting to virtual platforms and devising innovative ways to engage potential donors presented a steep learning curve. Gratefully, with the guidance from Club Rainbow, the unwavering support of our distance skateboarding community and devoted volunteers, we managed to surmount these challenges.

Furthermore, there was the physical challenge of actually skating the pledged distances. Balancing the demands of rest, personal commitments, and contending with factors like weather conditions and health setbacks were all part of the journey. Some of our participants were beginners, and they experienced a genuine sense of accomplishment in covering hundreds of kilometers on a longboard, far beyond what they initially imagined possible.

CRS: How do you reach out to the community for your campaign?

 Johan: Our outreach strategy was multifaceted. We utilised various social channels to raise awareness about the campaign. We even have a Strava club to help keep everyone updated on our progress together. Additionally, we reached out to local businesses and extended the outreach to other roller sports and their communities, seeking participation through partnerships and sponsorships. Through constant engagement and regular updates on our progress, we aimed to engage and involve as many individuals and groups as possible.

CRS: you share words of encouragement for our beneficiaries and their families?

 Johan: To the beneficiaries and their families, we want to convey this message: You are not alone in this journey. Your strength, courage, and unwavering spirit serve as a true inspiration to us all. Remember, each day is a step forward, and even if it feels like the distance is too great, know that there is a wealth of support surrounding you. Embrace the small victories, lean on each other, and understand that brighter days lie ahead. Keep believing in yourselves and in the power of resilience. Club Rainbow is here for you, and so are countless others who deeply care about your well-being.

For more information about SkateForGood, visit their website here!

Stories of Volunteer Dedication and Impact #CRSvolunteers

Introducing Fiona, one of our volunteers from our 30th Anniversary Birthday Bash, she then joined Camp Rainbow as one of our volunteers.

Fiona is also a speech therapist, who has experience working with children and youths, who have Autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions. She helped to produce content on “Understanding and Managing Children with special needs” which will be part of our e-training materials for new volunteers.

CRS: When did you start your volunteering journey and why did you decide to do it?

Fiona: I believe that no man is an island; its important to receive help and its equally crucial to reach out to others to build that community. Thus, after I settled into my first job after uni (and after the height of COVID), I decided to start volunteering at CRS. I started off with helping out randomly at the 30th anniversary carnival, then the rest is history!

CRS: What is volunteering to you?

Fiona: To me, its a sharing of hearts and hands in order to bring a smile on others' face, or make life better for another.

CRS: What contribution or achievement are you most proud of ?

Fiona: Hmmmm probably volunteering at CRS camp and creating a positive camp experience for my camper/group! It was my first time at the CRS camp this year, and I really saw how this camp was a significant event to both the beneficiaries and families. :')

CRS: What was the best thing about your time volunteering?

Fiona: Learning so much (big and small) from the beneficiaries, their families and other volunteers. And of course, all the positive relationships built in the process of the work done.

CRS: What skills did you gained through volunteering?

Fiona: It would be to listen closely and taking time to always put myself in the shoes of the beneficiary, instead of rushing to complete a task/objective.

CRS: What words of encouragement do you have for those that are starting their volunteering journey out there?

Fiona: My advice would be to not think about it anymore and just try! Sometimes we over-think the possibilities or doubt our ability to contribute or connect to others. But your presence itself can be a present to others - so just show up and get involved.

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Introducing Steve, one of our volunteer tutors for our beneficiaries.

Steve has been a volunteer tutor with Club Rainbow (Singapore) for a year.

CRS: Can you tell me about yourself?

Steve: My name is Steve and I’m an American who’s lived in Singapore for just over three years.  I am a professor of political science at Yale-NUS College. I love to read, play and watch basketball, and discover new restaurants with my amazing fiancée Marina. 

CRS: How long have you been a volunteer?

Steve: I have been a volunteer for almost one year

CRS: What is volunteering to you?

Steve: Volunteering is an opportunity to give back and contribute to something greater than oneself.

CRS: How have you benefitted from the volunteering experience?

Steve: By working towards a greater and collective goal, volunteering helps broaden my perspective of what matters in life. The rat race of work and my busy social life often narrows my interests towards what’s immediately in front of me. Volunteering puts my day-to-day life in perspective. It also makes me feel better about my week. No matter the week’s ups and downs, when I volunteer I know that I did at least one thing that week that hopefully helped someone else. Finally, as an expat, tutoring has been a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Singapore.

CRS: Were there any challenging moments?

Steve: Thankfully there have not been too many challenging moments. My tutee has been excellent. The hardest times for me were waking up very early in the morning for tutoring sessions when I was traveling to Singapore.

CRS: What motivates you to continue volunteering?

Steve: Volunteering adds meaning to my life by helping me contribute to something bigger than myself. It’s also an opportunity to give back. I would not be where I am today without the guidance of countless teachers, coaches and mentors. By volunteering, I strive to give back similar guidance and support to new generations of youth.

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Introducing Chantel, one of our volunteers of Camp Rainbow 2023, Chantel was one of the co-heads of the programmes team during camp.

CRS: Can you tell me about yourself?

Chantel: Hello! I am Chantel, a year 2 Business Management Student in Singapore Management University (SMU). Some things I like to do during my free time would be watching true-crime podcasts and spending time with my loved ones 

CRS: How long have you been volunteering?

Chantel: I became a volunteer at Club Rainbow since the beginning of this year, mainly for Camp Rainbow!

CRS: Why did you decide to volunteer for Camp Rainbow?

Chantel: It began with me wanting to help out in the community, and since I enjoy working with kids, I felt that a children's camp would suit me best! But as I was given more opportunities to interact with the beneficiaries of Club Rainbow (ie. Camp Prep Tea), I could see the amount of joy and fun they were having with the programmes that were meaningfully curated by my team and the staff. That really made me strive to make this year's Camp Rainbow a camp that would be unforgettable for all. 

CRS: How was it like taking up leadership roles?

Chantel: Initially it was rather daunting as I had no experience with planning activities for kids with special needs. I was worried that my activities planned would not be engaging enough for them. But with the help of the staff and the rest of the volunteers, we managed to tweak our activities in a way where it would better cater to the kids at Club Rainbow. At the end of the day, it was a fulfilling experience and one filled with growth

CRS: What did you learn from volunteering for Camp Rainbow?

Chantel: I learnt that the beneficiaries at Club Rainbow are just like any other child, they are young spirited individuals that are capable of having as much fun as any other could. There has always been a stigma against individuals with special needs, and through the planning and execution of Camp Rainbow, I feel more inclined to do what I can to break that stigma and help provide opportunities to the kids at Club Rainbow to live an equally fulfilling life. 

CRS: How would you encourage others to start volunteering? 

Chantel: Be brave and take that first step! You will find that the your efforts as a volunteer leave a positive impact on these kids, and I am sure you will be coming back for more

#R2FR: Cycle Uncles 2.0

Speaking with Mr Jimmy Kwang, a team member of Cycle Uncles 2.0, we learned what
drives him to give back to the community. 

CRS: How did you find out about RFR?

JK: I got to know RFR from a team member, who has been a regular rider for many years. As friends, we all supported him as an individual rider. Only last year did we officially form a team together. We thought that doing things together as a group was more exciting and that together as a team, we could contribute back to the community more significantly.

CRS: How big is your team and are you inviting more friends to join you by signing up for RFR?

Jimmy (left) with members of Cycle Uncles 2.0

JK: This year, our team has expanded to 6 members - an addition of 2 from 2022. We are all friends who share similar traits; former IBMers & colleagues from the same exercise groups on Sundays. Chin Hui and I have been friends for at least 20 years. Although we have moved on to different careers and lives, we continue to keep in contact as a group and try to meet at least once a week to keep fit and have makan sessions together.

CRS: What is your/your team’s training routine?

JK: We don’t have a fixed routine, but we do try to alternate our activities every week - between riding, cycling, and brisk walking. We typically cycle casually for 35-40km around East Coast Park (ECP) or the PCN route. Other times, our cycling route would either be along the east, towards Changi Village, or westbound towards Kallang. It always varies because we like to search for eatery spots. However, we do cycle very early in the morning so some eateries may not be open.    

CRS: Did you/your team set any goals for Ride and Ralk for Rainbows 2023 (#R2FR)?

JK: I believe that as a group, we would use our network to solicit more donors. In terms of our team’s goals, we are simply trying to accomplish our initial target. Now, we are smashing our initial target, hence, we plan to double the amount. I would say that we are quite aggressive considering we are all salespeople in a technology industry. From that, we are very passionate about creating a new baseline for the team to achieve.

CRS: What is something you would like to share with everyone who has yet to sign up for R2FR?

JK: From my perspective, it is dependent on the individual’s passion to give back to the community and generally what the whole event is all about. Fundamentally, it's also about creating awareness and in this case, supporting children with lifelong illnesses.

Personally, after completing my medical treatments and gaining my health back last year, it has become my drive to give back to the community. This is because life is always going to be challenging, however, there will always be someone who is in need more than myself, and you. With this, I believe people can still benefit from me - even just a little.
- Jimmy, Cycle Uncles 2.0

CRS: Could you share words of encouragement for our beneficiaries and their families?

JK: Perseverance is very important. I am a firm believer in the mindset that “The cup is always half full” - as opposed to being half empty. From this, we need to look at things differently and always view challenges and life from a positive perspective. There will always be opportunities and potential for us. Believe in hope, and not give up on it.

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You can make a difference
even though you are not a Rider or Ralker.

Support Ride and Ralk for Rainbows and make a difference today

Local Running Community with Big Hearts

Speaking with Mr Pang Wee Khai, Founder of Enjoy Your Run, we learnt why and how Wee Khai (WK) supports Club Rainbow (Singapore) (CRS).  

CRS: How did the group *Enjoy Your Run* come about?

EYR Team at East Coast Park

WK: Enjoy Your Run (EYR) came about during COVID-19 and the relaxation of the control measures. There was also generally more interest in fitness and wellness. A group of friends with some running background came together and decided that it was perhaps more enjoyable to exercise as a group for motivation because running at times requires tremendous discipline to follow through. So that was how we started to gather in small groups in July 2021, on a monthly basis at East Coast Park. It gradually became a weekly gathering for the passionate runners in the group.

Over time, EYR grew organically both in number of active members and the fitness goals achieved. Besides improving general health, several runners smashed their limitations and set new personal records for running - from middle distances to ultra-marathons. What seemed impossible was made a reality due to the strong bonding and teamwork at EYR, both on and off the running course.

CRS: Why have you decided to raise funds for the children of Club Rainbow, and is there any meaning behind the campaign title "Let the children run"?

EYR founder, Pang Wee Khai

WK: I came across Club Rainbow at NUH when my firstborn was born with a genetic condition many years ago. Although we did not engage their services at that time, we came to know about the existence of such charitable organisations, which provide support to families whose children suffer from chronic illnesses. Due to personal experience, it was meaningful to be able to raise funds for an organisation close to our hearts. In fact, there were two online campaigns done previously before the first group effort in 2022 ->

https://www.giving.sg/campaigns/raceto40-marathon-club-rainbow
https://www.giving.sg/campaigns/bryceton-goes-for-10k

Campaign: EYR 2023

http://Give.asia/EYR2023

CRS: Have your group encountered any challenges in your fundraising journey and how did you overcome those challenges?

WK: Generally, friends are supportive of our collective effort. Of course, there are also many other fundraising campaigns out there. It is more about creating awareness and being sincere about what and why we do it.

In terms of challenges, it is inevitable that injuries may happen in the course of getting stronger and fitter. Like all dream journeys, we may face unforeseen circumstances on the road to better health, especially because many teammates are busy working parents. We learn to be patient and share our burdens with each other. In comparison, the children and families of Club Rainbow go through much tougher challenges, which few people can fully comprehend -- we keep this awareness close to our hearts as we fundraise for their cause. 

CRS: How do you shout out for your campaign?

WK: We have been periodically creating awareness on our social media whenever the situation allows. It was also great that we had help with dollar-for-dollar matching by Tote Board, which gives friends more reasons to support our effort.

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Inspired by Wee Khai’s initiative? You can start your fundraising journey with us today!

• For the least effort in managing initiatives and maximum fun
  Fundraise through Ride and Ralk for Rainbows 2023

• Grow the community with maximum flexibility
  Start your own fundraising initiative like Wee Khai, email contact@clubrainbow.org for more details.

Baking: The New Black for Self-care Activity in 2023?

Like many other caregivers of Club Rainbow beneficiaries, Mr Lim, from the chemical logistics industry, has been providing tender care for his youngest son, Jun Rong. He acknowledged that he had enjoyed hobbies like golf but spends much more time with his family now. His family is a major priority in his life, and consider hobbies in the future. Mr Lim frequently hangs out in the living room with Jun Rong. The father and son duo often engage in activities like watching dramas or movies and occasionally playing games on a mobile device.

Before joining the baking programme by Club Rainbow, Mr Lim revealed that he had tried his hand at baking before and had even purchased an oven, but his baking attempt did not turn out well. Mr Lim considered the baking session at Club Rainbow to be entertaining and educational as the professionals who conducted the session shared a good deal of knowledge in baking. For example, how the room temperature can affect the outcome of the pastry, etc.

Aside from picking up some new skills, Mr Lim shared, 'Being able to interact, network, and exchange experiences with others is perhaps the largest advantage. Interacting with other caregivers will help struggling families to know that they are not alone and that others share their struggles. Families communicate with one another, relating and understanding how they feel and what they are going through.'

Mr Lim found the session fun and felt a sense of accomplishment from the baking session because he created something different. He jokingly said, "It’s edible, but always room to improve". He expressed the desire to continue the baking session if the opportunity arises again since learning new skills is always a positive experience. According to Mr Lim, "Baking can be done with family members and is a wonderful way to divert one's attention from worries and concentrate on the task at hand. It can be considered a form of self-care". He strongly recommends fellow Club Rainbow caregivers to participate in the baking programme.

CS2023: The Young Artist Behind The Design

Palette to mix and match

As Club Rainbow’s very own young artist, Jonas has drawn many pieces of artwork and created figures using clays during his free time. Artworks Jonas and his brothers, Lucas and Titus have created over the years have added more colours and uniqueness to the house. As much as he loves all his artworks, names were made for some of his artworks such as a sunflower clay he created. According to his mother, the first piece of artwork created by Jonas was at the age of four and he has been constantly creating pieces of art since then.

Jonas managed to have his artworks exhibited in an exhibition through his school. Not just that, he was also featured in a lifestyle magazine for his artwork. Happiness was reflected on Jonas’ mum’s face as she shared about his achievements and milestones. As the artist of the design that was printed on Travel 2.0: The Travel Organiser, Jonas is the first person to unbox it (Catch the release of the video on Club Rainbow’s Youtube Channel!). The Travel Organiser is a 6-piece set that comes in grey with the design printed in yellow. The designs are small icons Jonas created, including earth, flowers, a blue recycle bin, trees, etc.

Being a recipient of the CRS Talent Development Fund (TDF), Jonas was offered the opportunity to discover his abilities and gradually develop his skills throughout his journey with CRS, attaining accomplishments in the Arts. The fund supports art workshops, and programmes, giving him the lead in assignment opportunities.

For more details on Travel 2.0: The Travel Organiser, visit our Charity Merchandise page.

Innovative Event Management That Gives Back

As part of the vocational development programme, Club Rainbow organised a bake sale earlier this year, in which our beneficiaries and caregivers participated to gain new skills and earn supplementary income.

Dream Station, a local events management and production company, contributed to the sale of baked goods by purchasing items from our beneficiaries. When asked why they chose to support us, they explained that their CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) arm has the vision to collaborate with charitable organisations like Club Rainbow and to promote sustainability in their events. At the time, their client's CSR programme mandated that the items in their event's goodie bags have a CSR angle, and since it was around Chinese New Year, Dream Station had the idea of sourcing edible goodies to fit the theme. In addition, they also supported two other non-profit organisations (NPOs) besides Club Rainbow.

Dream Station initiated its CSR programme in 2020 and has been actively helping the community. During the Covid-19 pandemic, they provided hygiene packs containing masks and hand sanitisers to foreign workers living in dormitories and donated excess mask stocks to other non-profit organisations. They focus on in-kind contributions and efforts to give back to the community. Dream Station suggests that clients use services offered by charitable organisations and does not charge mark-ups or surcharges if clients decide to engage them. For example, from packing goodie bags to delivering them, it is passed on a cost-to-cost basis, which is atypical of events management companies that usually charge mark-ups for such services. Dream Station offers such angles to all their clients, especially MNCs with their own CSR arms, and the uptake by their clients depends on the business angle. However, Dream Station tries to push for the engagement of charitable organisations.

After emerging from the Covid-19 pandemic, Dream Station plans to restart its CSR efforts, focusing on giving back to society by providing services to help and encourage giving back to the community. If they have excess logistics or stocks after organising events, they give them back to society for better utilisation.

Moving forward, one of the pillars of Dream Station's CSR efforts is sustainability, which aims to reduce the wastage of consumables by encouraging clients to use sustainable supplies. They also want to empower underprivileged employees by hiring freelance staff from lower-income families who have teenage kids or mature workers looking for part-time jobs, providing them with another source of income.

Dream Station will continue fundraising campaigns on the giving.sg platform and will be directly involved physically in fundraising events, such as sourcing in-kind sponsorships for events management to run carnivals. They will also focus on empowering the community, which aligns with what Club Rainbow is trying to achieve through the rollout of vocational programs that support caregivers and beneficiaries, providing them with supplementary income while reaffirming that their journey is not just to take care of people with special needs, but also to show that people with special needs can contribute to the community.

Into the fourth iteration of the programme, one of the CRS participants could work in a baking establishment based on their experience and certification gained from the programme. Club Rainbow is grateful to Dream Station for their support towards the Vocational Programme.