Singapore’s NVPC CEO Advocates Compassion in ‘We First’ Movement

As Singapore advances its vision of a “we first” society, the emphasis on community support over individual gain is becoming increasingly prominent. The National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC) is advocating for a culture where compassion drives giving, rather than mere compliance. This shift in focus comes as Singapore emerges from the challenges posed by the pandemic and seeks to strengthen social bonds among its citizens.

During the National Day Rally last year, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted the concept of collective responsibility as vital to fostering unity in the nation. The NVPC’s chief executive officer, Tony Soh, reiterated this sentiment, stating that Singapore’s success is rooted in its cohesive community. “As Singapore becomes more wealthy, we must not forget that individuals succeed because the collective has been united,” he noted in an interview with Channel News Asia (CNA).

Strengthening the Culture of Giving

The NVPC plays a crucial role in promoting volunteerism and philanthropy in Singapore. Its initiatives aim to broaden the scope for citizens to contribute meaningfully to society. According to the NVPC’s latest National Giving Study conducted in 2023, approximately 30 percent of the 1,951 respondents reported volunteering, up from 22 percent in 2021, indicating a return to pre-pandemic volunteer levels. The percentage of individuals who donated remained stable at 62 percent.

Giving.sg, the NVPC’s national platform, facilitates around S$100 million (US$78 million) in donations annually from approximately 730,000 users. This data, while not exhaustive, serves as a barometer for Singapore’s charitable landscape. Soh expressed optimism about the potential for growth in volunteerism, particularly among younger generations such as millennials and members of Generation Z, who are increasingly socially conscious.

The NVPC also recognizes the contributions of older generations. Baby boomers and Generation X, often with more time and resources, are seeking meaningful ways to give back to their communities. “We believe that as we provide the right programmes and resources, we can witness significant increases in volunteerism and giving,” Soh remarked.

Rethinking Participation in Philanthropy

Despite the positive trends, not all citizens have the time or financial means to engage in traditional forms of giving. To address this, Soh advocates for a broader perspective on philanthropy, encompassing the “five Ts” — time, talent, treasure, ties, and testimony. This approach encourages inclusive participation, making giving more accessible to a wider audience.

Soh also cautioned against aggressive fundraising tactics that could alienate potential donors. “It’s important to recognize that creating awareness is a process,” he explained. “We try not to be too intrusive or pushy. Immediate results can be counterproductive.” Building relationships with stakeholders can encourage individuals to give when they feel ready, fostering a spirit of compassion rather than mere compliance.

While some prompting may be necessary to introduce people to charitable activities, Soh emphasized that creating meaningful experiences is key to nurturing a long-term commitment to giving. “The underlying motivation must be one of wanting to help,” he asserted.

Engaging young people aged 17 to 25 is a core focus for the NVPC. The organization aims to cultivate a culture of giving early in life, before the demands of adult responsibilities take hold. “At this stage, they are contemplating their future and what is important to them,” Soh noted.

By collaborating with educational institutions such as polytechnics, institutes of technical education, and universities, the NVPC plans to introduce young people to various giving opportunities. The emphasis will be on flexibility, allowing individuals to adapt their contributions according to their personal circumstances.

As these young adults transition into the workforce, the NVPC hopes they will carry their passion for philanthropy with them, continuing to contribute through corporate volunteering and other initiatives. This collective effort aims to sustain the “we first” spirit for generations to come.