Volunteer with Us

The Moulmein-Cairnhill Women Taskforce aims for our women to believe that each of our lives is already an inspiration in itself. As we get to know each one better, we will uncover that there is a most inspirational story in each one of us. It is from this space that MOCA Women sets its course to move and shake those around us to do something better for themselves because we have shown that it is possible! We continue to share our stories and find everyday heroines (and heroes) to inspire ourselves as well as others to take a step forward in courage and in faith.

Do you agree that education can contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty?

To Ms Ong, helping vulnerable families starts with empowering them with knowledge and skills, especially educating children in these families, with the aim of levelling the playing field for them. . "It all began with one child. Before I knew it, we started a tuition programme that has been running for six years for the children in the neighbourhood", shares Ms Ong, Chairperson of Moulmein-Cairnhill Community Development & Welfare Committee and an active volunteer for over 20 years.

Ms Ong shares that although the programme requires a high level of commitment from parents, children and volunteers, the cause is worthy. Since its inception, she has witnessed many children who have progressed to higher education. She also applauds the many volunteers who have supported this cause and firmly believes that mentoring is a win-win journey, both the mentors and mentees.

"While we only have 24 hours a day and spend most of these hours working, I always find joy in volunteering. To me, it’s an alternative form of stress buster," says Ms Ong, who recalled a recent rough patch at work. She added that volunteering has become a source of joy, especially when she witnessed how their collective efforts became an assurance to families that they are not left behind. Ms Ong adds, "While we are giving to the community, the community is giving to us too because when we see our passion turns into something good, our lives are more fulfilling too."

The recipient of the PA OurCommUNITYSG prize is our very own Grassroots Leader Ms Marlene Gwee!

She shared how her experiences as a child nurtured her passion to give back to the community.

“When I was a child, there was a place at the void deck of the HDB block near my place at St’s George Road. It was a place where I had built many fun and warm relationships. As I got older, I learnt that this special place was actually the Residents' Committee (RC) Centre.

I was born in a poor and broken family. As young as five years old, I had to cook my own rice to go with soya sauce when my mom was at work and mostly not home till 11pm. Every day after school, I would roam around aimlessly to play. The RC Centre brought happiness to my life; it was where I could draw, colour and sing. Through these activities, I also learnt about perseverance and how to work harder for my goals.

Lantern-making was one of my favourite activities. I practised and practised, and was extremely pleased when I came in 1st place during a lantern-making competition. It was then when I owned my first ever Barbie doll which came with a complete furniture set.

The RC Centre had given me many happy memories. I was able to learn from adults who substituted the ones missing in my childhood. Now I volunteer with Tanglin CC with the hopes to help families and children who are in need of an individual they can trust in and approach for help.”