To celebrate our Nation’s 53rd birthday and in conjunction with the SG Cares Movement, the 18 Days of Giving, and A lifetime of Caring Initiative, Force 21 organised a food factory visit for the senior residence of Choa Chu Kang Zone 2 on 27 July 2018. The intention is to build a corporate and individual culture of volunteerism and philanthropy. In addition, doing it as a company also enhances team work and bonding within the company.

I am not new to volunteering. I used to work with a group of friends feeding, sterilising and rehoming the stray dog community so as to keep them safe and happy. Instead, working with human, especially elderlies is new to me. Although me and 2 other colleagues had attended a befriender course few months back and had learnt some methods and tips but doing it practically is different. My concerns with communication like “what should I talk to them about?” and “how should I react and respond when they become emotional?” (something I hear often from some of my more experience befriender friends) made me worry if I was even ready to do this. However, all these concerns were laid to rest the moment I met with my new friends and let communication take its own natural course.

My individual take away
• I think the elderlies need more face time for conversations. After the event, many of them actually invited me to their home for drinks. I think a lot of them want to have some companionship and a listening ear despite knowing it’s just for a few hours. They want to talk and share their experiences.
• Very humbling and helped build my character in terms of being more understanding and patient. And also allowed me to understand more on the needs of an elderly. The experience also helped me be a better care giver towards my elderly parents.

I am certainly looking forward to our next session in December 2018.

Telvin Goh, Senior Manager
Community Outreach and Development