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From helping ex-offenders to training to be a Community First Responder, these two volunteers share how helping others has also made a difference in their lives.
TEXT AND PHOTOS: HOME TEAM VOLUNTEER NETWORK
Mdm Jenap M Said and Lai Jiong Shen have been giving back to others. The former is a volunteer leader with the Yellow Ribbon Project (YRP) volunteer scheme, and contributes as an event ambassador and strong advocate for the YRP. Jiong Shen is a Civil Defence Lionhearter (CDLH) and is trained in emergency skills to be a Community First Responder.
‘IT’S BETTER TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE’
Mdm Jenap volunteering as an event ambassador at the Yellow Ribbon Project booth.
Mdm Jenap’s connection to the Yellow Ribbon Project began when she participated in the inaugural Yellow Ribbon Prison Run in 2009. She found meaning in the YRP’s purpose of raising awareness, generating acceptance and inspiring community action towards offering beyond second chances to our beneficiaries and their families. This propelled her continued participation in subsequent Yellow Ribbon Prison Runs. In 2012, her firm beliefs crystalised into action and she began her volunteering journey. She single-handedly raised $120,000 in donations where she ran 60km dressed in a full Catwoman costume to support former offenders in their studies. Today, as a volunteer leader within the YRP volunteer scheme, she specialises in advocating for the YRP at events, roadshows and guiding newer volunteers through their volunteer journey.
“I feel grateful and extremely happy when I volunteer or raise funds for ex-offenders, especially when I hear about how they have turned over a new leaf and are able to successfully reintegrate into society,” she said.
Even when her approaches to the public are rebuffed, she responds with a warm, gracious smile, turning rejection into an opportunity to make a connection. Why? She believes that every “no” brings her one step closer to a “yes”.
Moving forward, she seeks to deepen her understanding of mental health issues, recognising its rising prevalence in our community and the need for the community to develop empathy for people undergoing mental health issues. In addition, she feels that this is an area for growth both personally and in her role as a volunteer.
ON A MISSION TO IMPART LIFE-SAVING SKILLS
Jiong Shen (right) and Jun Ren (left), in action during one of their CDLH’s activities.
Jiong Shen is currently the honorary general secretary of Nanyang Technological University’s (NTU) CDLH executive committee. The organisation aims to impart civil defence skills to the school’s population.
The third-year mechanical engineering student had already received some civil defence training. He was a former member of the National Civil Defence Cadet Corps (NCDCC) and had attended courses that equipped him with knowledge on basic fire and rescue, first aid, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Becoming a CDLH wasn’t initially on his radar until a friend told him about the club. He hasn’t looked back since. “Witnessing members of the public grasp the emergency preparedness knowledge I share with them is particularly rewarding,” he said.
When the club resumed its activities after COVID-19 restrictions had eased, he realised it needed to address several challenges. For instance, there was an absence of clearly defined roles within the club, so members had to juggle various responsibilities.
Guidance from individuals like Mr Aaron Lee, staff-in-charge of NTU CDLH Club and COL Bob Tan, Deputy Director of Volunteer & Community Partnership Department from Singapore Civil Defence Force proved invaluable in navigating these early hurdles.
LOOKING AHEAD
In 2024, Jiong Shen hopes to continue empowering students with vital civil defence skills, enhancing safety and well-being across NTU’s campus.
“Knowing that the information can empower someone to make a difference in critical situations adds a profound sense of fulfilment to my volunteer journey,” he added.
Looking ahead, Mdm Jenap strives to continue deepening social connections and broadening society’s mindset in embracing beyond second chance..
“I hope that at least my warm smile can have a positive impact on that stranger, making that small connection to brighten up their day,” she says.
Mdm Jenap and Jiong Shen highlight the transformative impact volunteers can make in their communities. Together, their aspirations ensure a continued legacy of positive change.
Do you want to join as a Home Team volunteer? Discover the Home Team Volunteer Network today! You can also check out our Instagram and Facebook Page, @htvolunteers, to learn about our 11 schemes. Learn more on how you can make a difference in your community now!
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