Download - TOUCH Community Services

TOUCH Report 2008ExecutiveDirector’s MessageIn 2008, TOUCH Community Services continued to roll out relevant servicesand programmes to meet the needs of its clients. The mutual support, warmthand care from individuals from all walks of life was evident in the 34% increase inthe total number of volunteers compared to the previous year. In 2008, TOUCHserved 1,300 clients per month and the number of service users increased 87%– reaching out to 14,700 individuals per month. The year also saw TOUCH YoungArrows setting up three new Clubs at Bedok, Hougang and Queenstown.On the national level, 2008 also saw TOUCH making its highest contribution todate at the National Day Parade – supported by 780 volunteers and 80 youthmentors. For the first time, we formed our own contigent of skyrunners and hiphop dancers, and trained student volunteers in magic tricks as part of ProjectSMILE (Sharing Magic In Love Everywhere). 130 individuals comprising friends,volunteers and staff of TOUCH also took part as pledge takers, making NationalDay 2008 an exceptionally memorable experience.TOUCH also continued to make significant contributions to the social service sectorthrough its new programmes and services. The year saw concerted efforts takento increase awareness of social issues and raise professionalism of social serviceworkers - from organising Singapore’s first adoption conference to participatingas an event partner in Marriage Convention to conducting certification courses indiabetes education, counselling skills and caregivers training, to publishing a cyberwellness handbook for parents.On the international front, TOUCH Community Services International broughtsmiles to many earthquake victims in Sichuan by responding swiftly with thesupply of emergency tents, medicine, clean water, “Cheer Kits” and “School Kits”and other relief supplies to meet the immediate needs of affected individuals.Training was also provided to help social workers in Sichuan provide support tospecial needs individuals traumatised by the disaster.And, as required by the Charity Council, we have taken further steps in adoptinggood governance practices to ensure compliance according to the Code ofGovernance for Charities and Institutions of Public Character - to provide greateraccountability to our donors and members of the public. More details can befound on the charity portal www.charities.gov.sg.Customer service remains our priority as we continue to feel the pulse of our clientsto provide relevant services to meet evolving needs. This is especially importantas the needy in society will face even greater challenges as Singapore grappleswith its worst ever recession in 2009. This will be a true test of our resilience andtenacity to weather the challenges, and strengthen our resolve to better the livesof the needy under our care. Let us rally together and do all that we can to helpthose in need.Eugene Seow, PBM