HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012

Transcription

1 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 OVERVIEW HISTORY The Handicaps Welfare Association (HWA) is an organization of the disabled, run by people with disabilities and for people with disabilities. It is a full member of the National Council of Social Service but is not a beneficiary member of the Community Chest of Singapore. The Association was founded on 18 December 1969 by a group of 23 persons with disabilities. It was first registered as the Singapore Handicaps Friendship Club. It later became known as the Singapore Association for the Disabled and in 1976, the present name of Handicaps Welfare Association was adopted. OBJECTIVES The Association was set up as a self-help group among people with disabilities and in particular to: Foster friendship, understanding and mutual assistance among its members. Promote the welfare, education, training, rehabilitation, employment and other interests of members Enhance educational opportunities through bursaries, scholarships, grants, subsidies and exchange programmes Obtain necessary benefits and concessions for people with disabilities Raise funds from the public and to administer donations, gifts or bequest from any person, body or organization to promote the independence and quality of life of members Create among the community and government an awareness of the special needs of people with disabilities and solicit their co-operation and assistance in furtherance of the objectives of the Association. 1

2 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION BOARD OF MANAGEMENT The management of the Association is entrusted to a 12-member Executive Committee, all of whom are people with physical disabilities. Members are elected at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) to serve in the Executive Committee on an honorary basis. The Executive Committee oversees the good management and compliance of good governance practices with its objectives. Their term of service is for two years from the date of election. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2011/2013 President Mr Edmund Wan Fook Wing Vice-President Mr Hui Beng Hong Honorary Secretary Ms Judy Tan Keng Ngoh Honorary Assistant Secretary Ms Michelle Siew Teok See Honorary Treasurer Ms Desiree Lim Kok Liang Honorary Assistant Treasurer Ms Wendy Lau Wong Hing Committee Member Mr Teo Teck Soon Committee Member Mr Philip Png Huat Weng Committee Member Mr Chiu Tze Ming Committee Member Mr Poon Wai Yuan 2

3 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 STAFF The Association employs full-time staff for its daily administration and enlists freelance personnel and volunteers (who include people with disabilities) to help in the execution of its myriad of projects and activities. TOP MANAGEMENT Subrata Banerjee Executive Director FINANCE Tan Teck Kern (Juande) Finance Manager Samantha Ko Chiu Chih Finance Executive Lee Yuan Ping Assistant Executive FUND RAISING Jason Rodrigo Fund-Raising Manager Cheryl Hariman Fund-Raising Executive Goh Thean Tye Dexter Senior Assistant Executive Tan Ek Huang Yvonne Assistant Executive 3

4 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS Cheok Tuck Jin Ronnie Corporate Communications Executive REHABILITATION Kyi Kyi Ohn Centre Manager (Jurong Point) Chinnappan Arulkumar Senior Physiotherapist Mani Murugeswaran Senior Occupational Therapist Ponnusamy Kathirvel Occupational Therapist Duraisamy Ramesh Physiotherapist Aye Mya Mya Aung Physiotherapist 4 Ko Ko Gyi Healthcare Assistant Marlar Hla Maung Therapist Assistant Goh Ah Kai Therapist Assistant

5 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 PERSONAL CARE SERVICE Zhang Hui (Angela) Co-ordinator Mya Mya Kyu Healthcare Assistant Jeany Ducusin Quinones Healthcare Assistant Than Tun Healthcare Assistant Sabia Baaun D/O M Berick Healthcare Assistant Sorongon Alma Pendon Healthcare Assistant SOCIAL SERVICE Lim Tee Kok (Stanley) Senior Executive Tan Lee Hoon Welfare Executive Koh Kin Yong (Victor) Assistant Operations Executive Soh Teng Chiu Assistant Welfare Executive 5

6 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION TRANSPORT Ching Sheue Jyh (Simon) Senior Executive Ng Soo Kiang (Grace) Transport Executive Kok Chun Wai Vincent Assistant Operations Executive Lee Ah Cheng Senior Driver Loh Siew Kwok Senior Driver Low Hang Kwee (William) Senior Driver Lum Lin Kwong Senior Driver Yeo Tiong Seng (Johnson) Senior Driver Husin Bin Jamil Driver Kunasageran S/O Nagappan Driver Lee Hoe Seng (Tommy) Driver Leow Boy Hong Driver 6 Lim Hwee Hua Driver Lim Lay See Driver Mohamad Ali Bin Osman Driver Ng Seck Yeow (Simon) Driver

7 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 TRANSPORT Sim Beng San Driver Sim Wee How Driver Sivaperakasam S/O Ramiah Driver Soh Hong Kim Driver Yeo Chee Kiang Driver CENTRE FOR THE PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED (CPC) Yeo Toh Song Driver Lee Lily Supervisor Vocational Counsellor Roumele Jay Villorente Baylocon CPC/I.T. Executive ADMIN/ HUMAN RESOURCE Tan Guek Hwa Senior Assistant Executive Udpa Savitha Sujit Job Trainer Wang Yi (Joyce) Senior Executive Lee Soo Cheng (Irene) Receptionist Talib Bin Abdul Aziz Assistant Executive Lim Suay Kim (Sally) Senior Office Assistant 7

8 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION Organization CHART Executive Committee Executive Director Assistant Director Admin & Finance - Finance - Human Resource - Premises Corporate Communications & Fund-Raising - Fund-Raising - Media Relations - Public Awareness - Public Education - Publicity - Editorial Services - Rehabilitation - Social Service - Personal Development - Transport - Centre for Physically Challenged - Personal Care Services - Accessibility - IT Support MEMBERS OF SUB-COMMITTEES/TASK FORCE FOR 2011/2012 FUND-RAISING SUB-COMMITTEE Chairperson Ms Desiree Lim Kok Liang Member Mr Philiip Png Huat Weng Staff-in-attendance Mr Subrata Banerjee Mr Jason Rodrigo Mr Ronnie Cheok Ms Cheryl Hariman Mr Dexter Goh Thean Tye Ms Yvonne Tan Ek Huang HUMAN RESOURCE SUB-COMMITTEE Chairperson Ms Michelle Siew Teok See Members Mr Edmund Wan Fook Wing Ms Judy Tan Keng Ngoh Mr Philip Png Huat Weng Mr Chiu Tze Ming Staff-in-attendance Mr Subrata Banerjee Ms Joyce Wang Yi REPRESENTATIVES National Council of Social Service Mr Edmund Wan Fook Wing Mr Subrata Banerjee Singapore Disability Sports Council Ms Michelle Siew Teok See Mr Subrata Banerjee Building and Construction Authority Mr Edmund Wan Fook Wing Ms Kyi Kyi Ohn ADVISORS Honorary Medical Advisors Prof Arthur Lim Siew Ming Prof Peter Lim Huat Chye Dr Roy Ng Kwok Weng Dr Edward Balan Menon Dr Tan Seang Beng Dr Siow Woei Yun Legal Advisor Mr Roy Yeo Kan Kiang Building Advisor Mr Lee Mun Hoe Electrical Advisor Mr Loh Kok Onn 8

9 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 PRESIDENT s Review 2011 / 2012 is one of the more memorable years for the Association. A number of events and milestones were achieved. This has brought about a higher profile of the Association and even brought us a higher surplus than was expected. Premises We can now put aside the immediate search for an alternate site for the Association. Our current land lease at Whampoa was to expire by end of The good news is that the authorities have extended the year on year lease for a period of five (5) years from Dec This means we can stay on till end of Meanwhile critical structural renovation works are taking place to ensure the safety of all who are housed in the premises. Code of Governance The need to be mindful on the Code of Governance in all our activities was top in our mind. We need to be transparent and accountable for our activities and actions. To this end we reviewed all the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure compliance was in place. There was also a need to develop new policies on the Code with regard to the Conflict of Interest on third party transactions and Whistle Blowing Reporting. Transport The announcement by the SMRT not to replace the current fleet of London Taxis has resulted in greater awareness of our transport service. HWA has always believed that there is a need for such specialized services since the 1980s, even though no government funding was available. HWA recognized that there are many who are not able to take normal public transport with the exception of London Taxis. A sudden surge in demand following the publicity has put a strain on our transport service. Fact is HWA alone will not be able to fulfill the ever increasing demand for such special transportation needs. MCYS in reviewing the situation has given a year s reprieve for the London Taxis to operate and to come up with a more viable solution as part of the overall public transport scheme. The abuse of the Class II (orange) label for caregivers has also taken much of our time. As long as the authorities continue to issue Class II label for caregiver, this will generate even greater challenges (and greater demand) with the current limited special parking places for drivers with disabilities, Drivers with disabilities will have insufficient lots to park. Drivers with disabilities need a bigger space to maneuver to retrieve their wheelchairs. Truly I ask, does Class II (orange) label vehicles driven by caregivers need to park in these designated disabled parking lots? Singapore is the only place in this world I know that issues such special parking label. Condolence The Association felt a great loss when the late Nancy Chia left us. She has always been very active and her departure left a void in many of us and the Association especially in the area of providing driving lessons for people with disabilities. Life, however, has to move on. 9

10 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION Finance Our Financial Report reflects a surplus, even in this most difficult time. We are prudent risk takers because our members rely on us for the safety and soundness of our financial state. However, our good results can also be attributed to the many loyal supporters and donors who value the services we provide to the community. Many of our services are highly subsidized by the donations and given to those who truly cannot afford to pay for it. We continue to strive to deliver cost effective and value add services for our members by not compromising on helping them to uplift their lives. We further strengthened the collaboration with other stakeholders including the NCSS, MCYS, Ministries, VWOs and Hospitals in making sure we can provide affordable services for those who truly need it. Staff Development We continue to invest in our staff, helping them to develop their capabilities by providing diverse enriching opportunities to build their careers and skill capability especially in the area of para-medical services with the Association. Appreciation I wish to thank my Board Members for their consistent support, counsel and guidance. I also acknowledge and commend our staff, in particular Mr. Subrata, our Executive Director, for their dedication and contribution in bringing us where we are today with limited funding support. The Board extends a warm welcome to Mr. Alvin Poon Wai Yuan who joined us on 1 September In conclusion, we would like to express our gratitude to all our members, clients, volunteers and the public for their understanding and unwavering support. Without your support, we will not be an Association. Special thanks go to the Ministry of Community Development, Youth & Sports (MCYS), National Council of Social Service (NCSS), Ministry of Health (MOH) and anyone who we may have inadvertently overlooked. Thank you all for the support, understanding and encouragement given to us over the year and we look forward to your continued support. 10

11 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 Governance The Handicaps Welfare Association (HWA) is fully committed to the integrity and transparency in all her activities. The Association adopts and complies with the Code of Governance established by the Commissioner of Charities of Singapore. The Board is elected by the members of the Association to lead and manage the affairs of the Association. The Board believes in good ethical practice and enshrined the requirements on the Code of Governance along with the Constitution of the Association in all her activities. It is the way forward. Meetings The Board conducted scheduled monthly meetings, except for January 2012, on a regular basis. Ad hoc meetings were convened to deliberate on urgent matters as and when necessary. Code of Governance The Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) were reviewed to ensure it is relevant and in line with the Code of Governance. High on our list on Governance for this year is on: Policy on Conflict of Interest Declaration (Interested Person Transaction) HWA adopted the yearly declaration on Conflict of Interest for all Board Members and staff. The Policy established the principle and as a guide, with some examples of possible conflict included. This includes the definition of related party transactions. What are the measures that are taken to ensure in terms and conditions of related parties that are not more favourable than those granted to non-related obligors under similar circumstances. The Policy also established a guideline on how to handle situation and act on it. Whistle Blowing Policy As a further enhancement to ensure compliance and internal risk processes, HWA will be introducing and implementing the Policy on Reporting Wrongdoing under the Whistle Blowing Policy. All wrongdoings, if any, can be reported and assured confidentiality, to the appointed Internal Auditor or the President. Wrongdoings can include fraud, abuse of authority, and breach of regulations or even non-compliance with the Code of Governance. Internal Auditor A member of the Board is appointed to be the internal auditor of the Association who would then monitor and conduct checks and control on the operations of the Association. The Association will continue to review and update any of her SOPs to remain relevant and guide the proper ethical practices and operations. God Bless Edmund F W Wan President Handicaps Welfare Association 11

12 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION Report from HONORARY SECRETARY The Handicaps Welfare Association (HWA) has grown tremendously over the last decade and has supported thousands of people with physical disabilities; mainly in rehabilitation and transport services. All of HWA s services, with the exception of social integration programmes, are open to non-members with physical disabilities. Persons with physical disabilities between the age of 16 to 60 years old, are eligible for HWA s membership. Since 1969, the Association has helped members to improve their quality of life through the provision of various programmes and services. Existing programmes and services are continuously being reviewed to meet the changing needs of members. New programmes and services are introduced to meet new challenges faced in the social services sector. The Association endeavours to enhance the quality of its programmes and services. STATUS OF THE MEMBERSHIP REGISTER As at 31 March 2012, the Association has a register of 1,899 members. Close to 45% of our members are the Association s life members. We have also noted that 44% of our members are aged 50 years and above. With the increase of life-style related health disorders, we have seen an increase of neuro-muscular related disability (such as stroke) that comprises 75% of our membership. Regrettably, 2 members resigned and 20 members passed away. The breakdown of the membership categories are as follows: Life Member 45% Associate Member 3% Ordinary Member 52% MEMBERSHIP PROFILE The average age of our member is >60 11% % Membership by Age % % % Neuro- Muscular 75% Membership by Disability Others 3% Muscular- Skeletal 22%

13 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 Membership by Educational Level Primary 25% Special 5% None 6% Polytechnic 1% Tertiary 14% Vocational 6% JC 5% Secondary 38% MAY THEY REST IN PEACE During the year under review, the Association was notified of the demise of the following members: ORDINARY MEMBERSHIP 1 Asmania Bte Akil 2 Goh Khoon Lim 3 Koh Ho Hap 4 Lee Hwee Leng, Candy 5 Lui Heow Wee 6 Or Poh Hin 7 Sim Kim Sun Victor 8 Yap Chee Boon LIFE MEMBERSHIP 1 Abdul Wahid Bin Baba 2 Amri Bin Mohd Samat 3 Ang Yew Pheng 4 Goh Siow Chye 5 Lim Chin Huat 6 Lim Kim Tee 7 Lim Siam Cheng 8 Lim Thiam Boon 9 Mark Ho Khay It 10 Nancy Chia 11 Ong Chin Sin 12 Yow Kok Wai The Executive Committee and staff of the Association extend their heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of these individuals. Ms Judy Tan Keng Ngoh Honorary Secretary 13

14 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION Report on CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS During the year under review, the Corporate Communications Department (CCD) continued its close working relationship with the media and the public in raising the profile of the Handicaps Welfare Association (HWA) and creating greater awareness of its programmes and services. CCD continues to serve its general publicity, marketing and educational roles by executing the following strategic actions: 1. Conducts awareness programmes of HWA for students, corporations and the public alike. 2. Efficient use of HWA s media resources, website, social media, magazine, brochures and blast to inform the public regularly about its programmes and services. 3. Represents HWA in community events and talks organized by schools, government agencies and other entities. 4. Projects the voice of HWA in the mass media (mainly newspaper, TV and radio) on disability issues. 14 PUBLICATION MATERIALS CCD continues to diligently produce the Handicaps Digest, a quarterly newsletter on the Handicaps Welfare Association. CCD also works on special commemorative magazines and souvenir issues distributed during special events. 2011/2012 marked a difference after having revamped HWA brochures, a distinct change after several years. This serves as a stepping stone to the complete revamp of other publicity materials used to create greater awareness for HWA. PUBLIC EDUCATION CCD continues to deliver public education programmes at HWA s premises and external venues such as schools. CCD uses this opportunity to build a stronger rapport with schools to instill upon the students the values of community service and to encourage students to support HWA s programmes and activities by volunteering their time and energy for a cause. These programmes can be specifically categorized into Exhibitions, School Talks/Visits and General Visits. These include visits from individuals as well as corporations held at HWA s premises. Donors and sponsors are then able to visualise and appreciate the services provided by HWA.

15 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 Public Education talks also aim to further enhance public and corporate support for HWA s programmes and services, thereby inviting participation and support for our services and key fund-raising projects such as Flag Day, Wheel, Walk or Jog, Hong Bao Draw and Donation Draw. EXHIBITIONS CCD displays stand-up banners, screen HWA s corporate video and distribute publicity materials at booths and road shows in an attempt to create greater awareness on HWA. Fund-raising, volunteer recruitment and CCD collaborate on such exhibitions in order to fully utilize the resources available. Some of the exhibitions HWA took part in are: HWA s Corporate Awareness Youth Got Heart by Raffles Institution Corporate Awareness Booth at SFIC Event Volunteer Fair by ACJC SCHOOL TALKS/VISITS Accompanying CCD staff to school talks, HWA members shared their experiences in their day-to-day challenges. This has proven fruitful as students took an interest in true life stories. In return, many of these schools expressed their enthusiasm and interest in voluntary services in different ways at HWA s premises or contributed towards HWA s programmes and services. The schools involved were: Hwa Chong Institution HWA Anglo-Chinese School CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls School Catholic High School Henderson Secondary School Ngee Ann Polytechnic RIJC SJI Serangoon Secondary School Swiss School Temasek School Yishun Town Secondary School Zhong Hua Secondary School School SJI 15

16 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION GENERAL VISITS The following VIPs, Corporations and Organisations visited HWA during the year under review: Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth & Sports, Mr. Chan Chun Sing Archbishop Nicholas Chia CARITAS Board of Trustees Singapore Computer Society Singapore Furniture Industry Council (SFIC) American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) Korean Delegates My First Skool Koryo Trading Pte Ltd National Library Board (NLB) Daejeon Association For The Disabled Hwa Chong Institution Dr. Tan Cheng Bock Balestier High Secondary School Staff & Management of Jurong Point Shopping Centre Care Corner MEDIA COVERAGE Students & Staff from My First Skool Donates Food Rations The various media channels are utilized in providing coverage on HWA s news and its events as a whole. Features of our programmes and services as well as cover stories are included in the coverage during the year under review. 16 Visit From Daejeon Association For The Disabled

17 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 Report on FUND-RAISING Fund-raising continues to play an important role in ensuring the Handicaps Welfare Association (HWA) delivers quality programmes and services for the benefit of people with disabilities. HWA s annual fund-raising projects such as All-Cash donation Draw, Wheel, Walk or Jog, Flag Day and Hong Bao Appeal helped to raise about one-third of the funds, while the rest of the funds came from other external sources such as President s Challenge, Fai Cai Cup, donation boxes and others. HWA s annual operating budget stands at $3.5 million. However with the continued support of individual donors, members of the public, schools and corporations, we were able to raise the much needed funds to meet the growing needs of people with physical disabilities. Flag Day 2011 (30 April 2011) Schools have always been instrumental in helping Voluntary Welfare Organizations (VWOs) such as HWA raise much needed funds for our programmes and services. They did so by participating in our Annual Flag Day which was held on 30 April A total of $150,000 was raised. Unlike most regular flag days where it was common to see a student approaching a member of the public with a donation tin, schools that participated in the Flag Day 2011 found last year s experience enriching and meaningful. Students found that they were given the opportunity to interact with our physically challenged members at various MRT stations as they maneuvered their new friend along the streets taking the opportunity to get acquainted with them. Most of our students have maintained contact with their friend even after the event. We are grateful for the support of our volunteers who not only help us in raising funds but also helped in the counting of our street collection the following day. We would also like to thank APRO Pte Ltd for providing security services for the past 5 years. Wheel, Walk or Jog 2011 (14 August 2011) Running strong for 27 years, the annual Wheel, Walk, or Jog (WWJ) event, organized by HWA was held on 14 August With HWA being adopted by the National Parks Board as their charity of choice, it was thus befitting to hold the WWJ against the beautiful backdrop of the East Coast Park. WWJ 2011 drew a strong crowd which included participants from all walks of life. Guest- Of-Honour, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Law, Mr. K Shanmugam flagged off the participants who were made up of individuals from the public, as well as representatives from various organizations including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National 17

18 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION 18 Parks Board and the Singapore Armed Forces, Schools and staff of Dimension Data who donated $50,000 to the Association. Also participating, were our 150 members on wheelchairs. Making their way along a route that wound through East Coast Park, participants enjoyed the cool sea breeze as they made their way around the park. More riveting than the usual scene of people jogging and strolling were the wheelchairs maneuvering through the park. Whether or not they were assisted, the wheelchair users captured the attention of the casual park-goer, and earned many encouraging and approving looks. Not content to sit back and rest on its laurels, HWA, together with its partners, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dimension Data, and the National Parks Board, held WWJ 2011 as an event to help raise funds for HWA, to support its plans to further improve the range and quality of services that members receive. At the same time, members are encouraged to play an active role in the fund-raising events so that they too will feel a sense of empowerment and ownership. After the invigorating jaunt through the park, participants and the public alike were treated to special performances and had the chance to take part in activities and games while soaking in the relaxing atmosphere at the East Coast Park. HWA s All-Cash Donation Draw (10 September 2011) Our All Cash-Donation Draw project was once again well-supported by schools, organizations, individuals and well-wishers. Our members too took an active role in promoting the tickets to retail outlets, shopping centres with the support of road-shows conducted at various approved bus interchanges and MRT stations. The project which boasts of cash prizes amounting to $30,000 was drawn at our premises on Saturday 10 September It was attended by members of the public, volunteers, auditors, executive committee members and staff of HWA. With the support of all concerned, we managed to raise $200,000 out of which $78,000 was raised by Singapore Pools Pte Ltd through ticket sales at their branches and retail outlets. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Singapore Pools Pte Ltd for their invaluable support in our fund-raising efforts. Special mention must also be given to Singapore Post, Tampines Secondary and Commonwealth Secondary for their efforts in raising a substantial amount through ticket sales for the donation draw.

19 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 The funds raised will be used to continue uplifting the lives of physically challenged people through our programmes and services. Hong Bao Appeal Project 2011 Christmas and Lunar New Year are festive seasons where people celebrate and gather with their family and loved ones. During this festive season, the financial support from corporations, statutory boards and individuals have enabled us to continue delivering the various programmes and services that will empower people with physical disabilities to live more independent lives. We raised about $150,000 from appeal letters distributed to various households and corporations. Other Sources of Donation FA Cai Cup 2011 The Fai Cai Cup Golfers once again selected HWA as the beneficiary for its annual competition and managed to raise $90,000 for the Association, beating the previous year s record of $63,000. The money was raised through outright donations and auction of items from ardent supporters of HWA, comprising of Chinese businessmen who got together on the 7th day of the Lunar New Year to play golf for charity. Singapore Furniture Industries Council helps raise funds for HWA The year 2011 marks the Singapore Furniture Industries Council (SFIC) 30th Anniversary. They celebrated their 30th Anniversary with a Dinner & Dance held at Orchard Hotel Singapore on 7th October. As part of their celebrations, SFIC adopted HWA as the sole beneficiary of the proceeds from their August charity golf tournament, with a total amount of S$82,330 raised. The cheque was presented to Mr. Edmund Wan, President of HWA by SFIC President, Mr. James Goh during a presentation ceremony held at the dinner and dance. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all members of SFIC for their warm support and look forward to their continued support in Jurong Point Plush Toy Initiative With the goal of fostering positive relationships within the communities in which they operate in, Starmall Property Management Pte Ltd, which manages Jurong Point Shopping Centre, wanted to not only address the needs of the community but also engage their employees to play an active role in their community. 19

20 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION As part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Starmall Property Management Pte Ltd initiated a fund-raising initiative to promote the sales of Garfield Plush Toys priced at $5.00 to all Jurong Point shoppers from November to December The two-month promotion raised $32,800 with all proceeds donated to the Association. We would like to express our gratitude to Starmall Property Management Pte Ltd for initiating this novel fund-raising initiative and look forward to further collaborations in Dr. Tan Cheng Bock presents HWA with cheque donation December 2011 also saw HWA host a special visit from distinguished visitor Dr. Tan Cheng Bock, our past patron, who presented a cheque donation to HWA. HWA would like to thank Dr. Tan for his generous contribution. Appreciation note to all donors HWA would like to express our earnest appreciation for every donor, sponsor and wellwisher who has supported our cause. It is because of the warm support from kind donors like you that the Association continues to function and serve the physically challenged members in our country. It is heart-warming to have such generous donors. It is proof that there are many individuals and groups that care about individuals with various forms of disabilities. This encourages us to go on and strive to improve their lives. Your commitment towards the disability cause is commendable. We look forward to your continued support in

21 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 Report on SERVICES DEPARTMENT REHABILITATION SERVICE Currently, The Handicaps Welfare Association s (HWA) Rehabilitation Service operates two Rehabilitation Centres. Apart from its main centre in Whampoa Drive, it also operates a Rehabilitation Centre in Jurong Point Shopping Centre. Currently both Centres provide regular rehab services to more than 200 clients with physical disabilities. HWA Rehabilitation Centres provide the following services: 1. Physical rehabilitation programmes for clients to improve and maintain their physical and functional status. 2. Training on independent living skills so that they become less dependent on their caregivers. 3. Care-givers training. 4. Training on community mobility and exploration. 5. Consultation and advise on purchase and proper uses of aids and appliances. 6. Encourage clients to be involved in social, recreational and community activities. HWA s Rehab Centres work very closely with the Transport Department and the Centre for the Physically Challenged (CPC). Rehab staff are involved in services such as evaluation of workplaces and modifications; provide consultation on accessibility, pre-vocational assessment and post-job placement assistance if required. Dedicated transport services are available for clients attending the Rehabilitation Centres at an affordable fee. At Whampoa Rehab Centre Jurong Point Rehab Centre 21

22 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION PERSONAL CARE SERVICES (PCS) HWA started providing Personal Care Services (PCS) to people with disabilities since February The service is available island-wide to people with physical disabilities of all ages. The programme is partly funded by National Council of Social Service under the Tote Board Social Service Fund. Personal Care Services provide the following much needed assistance to clients and care-givers: Helping in personal routines such as bathing, dressing, toileting, feeding, and transferring. Providing required nursing care such as catheterization, wound dressing, etc. Providing Home Therapy. Number of sessions provided from April 2011 to March 2012 The current charges for these services are as follows: (Sessions are based on max. one hour per session) Service Members Public Foerigner Personal Routine $10 $10 $20 Nursing $25 $25 $50 Home Therapy $25 $25 $50 HWA s PCS service also provides customised training to new care-givers or domestic helpers at the clients home setting. 22

23 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT Overview The Handicaps Welfare Association s (HWA) Special Needs Transport Service (which is a heavily subsidised service) is one of the core services of the Association. The Association has been providing this dedicated transport service since 1980, having supported people with physical disabilities in Singapore over the last 31 years. The transport has helped ferry people with mobility difficulties to work, school, vocational training, hospital/ rehabilitation visits and recreational activities. The clients of this dedicated door-to-door transport service, especially people with mobility difficulties and the frail elderly, find the service beneficial, efficient and more importantly, affordable. Currently the Association provides the following transport schemes and related service / assistance: Dial A Ride (DAR) Monthly Transport Rehab Transport Chartered Services Handicare Cab Scheme Driving Instruction Dial-A-Ride (DAR) Service This scheme provides door-to-door service, using vehicles which are equipped with accessible features, such as the hydraulic lift, to ferry passengers in wheelchairs. This service is accessible to all people with physical disabilities who have difficulty in using existing public transportation or taxis. The DAR service is mostly used by people with physical disabilities to attend activities such as medical consultations, rehabilitation sessions, enrichment / educational purposes and social and recreational activities, etc. Monthly Transport Scheme Our monthly fixed transport service ferry disabled people to and from work, as well as those who attend classes on a regular basis. As of end March 2012, 36 people are using the regular monthly transport service and we have provided 17,546 trips under this scheme during the same year. Rehab Transport A collective transport system, this scheme provides door-to-door service, using accessible minibuses to ferry our clients to the Association s two Rehab Centres on a daily basis. Chartered Services HWA s Chartered Service provides accessible transport to various agencies as well as foreign visitors with disabilities during their stay in Singapore. Agencies can charter our vehicles to ferry their clients for their activities. This service is available on weekdays and weekends. 23

24 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION HWA s Chartered Service plays an important role in supporting accessible tourism in Singapore. To create greater awareness of this service, we are working closely with agencies specializing in accessible tourism. For the year under review, we achieved a total ridership of 41,607 passenger trips. Our total income for the year was $352, The Total Expenditures for Year 2011/2012 is $1,117,

25 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 Driving Instruction Service Our Driving Instructional Car which was donated by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) in the year 2001, was de-registered in October However, we have been fortunate that LTA has continued their support of our Association by donating $50,000 for the purchase of a new Driving Instructional Car. The new Driving Instructional Car will begin operating from April All physically disabled learners enrolled for driving lessons under the year of review had successfully passed the driving test conducted by the Traffic Police. Handicare Cab Scheme HWA continues to work with ComfortDelGro Corporation Limited in providing people with disabilities a convenient way to travel on board taxis belonging to the ComfortDelGro Group, namely CITYCAB and COMFORT. Launched in 1999, the HANDICARE CAB SCHEME (henceforth known as HANDICARE ) has helped to alleviate the frustration and plight of physically disabled commuters who have often encountered difficulties securing a taxi, especially during peak hours. The Handicare Cab Scheme aims to meet the mobility needs of clients who are certified with permanent physical disabilities and depend on taxis as a means of transport to places of employment, education, medical treatment/consultation, rehabilitation and dialysis treatment. The scheme supported 2,286 trips for the financial year 2011/2012. Donation Of Vehicles During the year under review, we have received funding towards the purchase of 1 bus and 1 driving instructional car from the following organisations: San Wang Wu Ti Religious Society Land Transport Authority Donations To Support Transport Operational Cost We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the following organizations & individuals for their generous donations in support of transport operational costs: Chen Su Lan Trust Zu-Lin Temple Toa Payoh Seu Teck Sean Tong Temple Singapore Buddhist Youth Mission Kiat Leng San Temple Thong Teck Sian Tong Lian Sin Sia Temple Tai Pei Temple Poh Leng Jie Kwan Inn Buddhist Temple Yan Kit Village Chinese Temple Leng Ern Jee Temple Lorong Koo Chye Sheng Hong Temple Sian Teck Tng Vegetarian Convent Sharikat Logistics Pte Ltd 25

26 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION Sim Siang Choon Hardware (S) Pte Ltd Bukit Timah Seu Teck Sean Tong Temple Kwan Siang Tng Temple The Buddhist Foo Yuen Lim Temple Mr Sigfried Ching Mr Wong Keng Wah Ms Tan Siok Hong Donation In Kind Mighty Minds Publishing Pte Ltd United Parcel Services (UPS) Mr Yap Yong Soon Arch Precision Tooling Pte Ltd Tripartite Workgroup (LTA-VWO-PTO) On Introduction Of Wheelchair Accesible Buses (WABS) Started in March 2006, HWA is currently a member of the tripartite workgroup; sharing our knowledge pertaining to the modifications of bus stops and interchanges, public education and operational issues, relevant to the introduction of wheelchair accessible buses. As of 31st March 2012, SBS Transit have deployed a total of 111 Wheelchair Accessible Buses (WAB). 26

27 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 SOCIAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT During the period from 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012, the Association continued to strive to fulfill its mission of enhancing the quality of life of people with disabilities and to integrate them into the mainstream society. Our clients and caregivers were able to rely on the Association for the much needed social services to persons with physical disabilities in the community. Services provided include: Information and referral of community resources Casework and counseling Free loan of mobility aids and independent living aids to members and the public. Financial subsidies to members for purchase and repair of mobility aids and independent living aids. Financial assistance to financially needy families in the form of food-in-kind and food ration vouchers Financial assistance to clients of rehabilitation and personal care services Transport subsidies for members; Free medical consultations by specialist volunteer doctors were arranged as and when demand for such service were needed. Home Visits Social Services Department conducts regular home visits as an initiative to integrate its huge pool of members who may not be actively participating in HWA s activities or services. Such visits help endear the members to the Association as it displays heartwarming care and concern which encourages them to continue their membership in HWA. Staff were also able to gather valuable feedback pertaining to HWA s current services and any other services required by the members. Financial Assistance Schemes The Association continued to provide financial aid to members who have difficulty meeting subsistence level of living and getting the necessary equipment for their independent living. Right from the start, HWA s intention was not to give handouts but to help its members cope with their lives in times of difficulties. Direct financial assistance was therefore never given out. Since the introduction of the food ration scheme in 1989, HWA has been helping its needy members in the form of NTUC vouchers or donated staple food. Assistance was also rendered to assist members who qualified for various assistance schemes offered by the Centre for Enabled Living (CEL) and other relevant agencies. Apart from subsidizing the purchase of mobility aids, HWA assists its members by tapping on various available funds. HWA also helps members by subsidizing the repair of mobility aids. HWA offers a subsidy of 50% of the repair cost and this is limited to $4200 a year per member. 27

28 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION Mobility Aids Loan Scheme HWA s mobility aid loan scheme was started more than 10 years ago to help members with short-term equipment loan. Singaporeans and PRs need to pay only token administrative charges on top of the deposits which cover the cost of the mobility aids. HWA Transport Assistance Fund HWA s Transport Assistance Fund is offered to needy members who use HWA s Dial-A- Ride service for medical consultations, rehabilitation and dialysis treatment. Members whose application is successful can claim up to 50% of the transport fares. AMCHAM CORPORATE COMMUNITY DAY Morgan Stanley which has a strong tradition of volunteerism and in its philanthropy quest, invited HWA members to its AMCHAM Corporate Community Day held on 5 November A total of 81 HWA members attended the event. They participated in various games and also benefitted from the food ration initiative. Morgan Stanley staff donated a total of $10,000 to HWA. Morgan Stanley staff, senior management and HWA beneficiaries socialized with one another making the event meaningful and memorable. 28

29 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT In our on-going efforts to improve our members quality of life, the Association is committed to developing talents and potential hence contributing to the realization of dreams and aspirations. We have adopted the concept where members upon receiving formal and informal training from Volunteer Trainers, would be encouraged to perform in public so as to develop awareness about our members abilities and talents. Our personal development activities include the following: Art Appreciation Club Throughout time in memorial, art has played a crucial role in life. Art is universal and because art is everywhere, we experience it on a daily basis. Most art is created as a way of expressing ideas and beliefs, and it can record the experiences of all people. Our Art Appreciation Club is one such gathering of artists who through their fine pieces of art enable us to see the world differently and compels us to think about the messages behind each creative painting. Our members were fortunate to have their art-pieces displayed at Orchard Central from Friday, 9 Sept 2011 to Friday, 16 Sept The venue provided an excellent platform not only for our members art pieces to be displayed but also an opportunity for the public to learn about disabilities from our artists who were on site. Guitar Course Our Guitar Course is catered to all members of all ages. The course entails a brief introduction to posture, types of guitar strokes and basic music notation, after which students then move on to learning chords and picking notes. By the end of this course, our members were able to strum common chords and play a variety of songs across a range of musical styles. Besides introducing them to the guitar, this course also prepares students for more advanced training in learning the classical guitar. This creative collaboration was made possible by the Volunteer Guitar Connection, an interest group based in Singapore under the Volunteer Circle of the National Council of Social Service (NCSS). The group formed from various agencies wanted to promote their love for music and to share the joy of music to everyone both young and old. Members attend the training at Nee Soon East Community Club every Friday from 7.00 pm to 9.30 pm. Keyboard Class Due to our members interest in music, a keyboard class at the basic level commenced on 13 April The response to the course was well-received as 7 members attended the training from April to June. The classes were conducted every Saturday, from 3.00 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. The training was held at our premises by a volunteer trainer. Chinese Orchestra Since 2007, a Chinese String Instrument Class formed by Mr Yan Shi Rui, an accomplished musician, continued to coach 10 members in the playing of the Pipa and Gu Zhen. Members meet every Monday from 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. The Group had previously performed at various events organised by the Association. Social Integration Our Social Integration Model immerses clients into real life activities within the community. These activities include recreational, social, cultural and life skills activities 29

30 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION organized by various organisations such as Singapore Pools, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Parks Board and schools. We are fortunate that the Handicaps Welfare Association (HWA) was given the privilege to attend the Chingay Parade which marked its 40th Anniversary Celebrations held at the F1 Pit. A total of 17 members for HWA attended this annual event graced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. The colourful event was well received by our members who enjoyed the parade centered on the theme of Love, Care and Kindness Everywhere This year s Chingay 2012 marked its 40th year anniversary. Our members were mesmerized by the breathtaking performances along a 360-metres waterway with performers making a splash and creating spectacular stunts and exhilarating acts with water. We would like to thank Singapore Pools Pte Ltd for extending the invitation to our members to be part of the celebrations. Sports Activities While sports has a value in everyone s life, it is even more important in the life of individuals with a disability. This is because of the rehabilitative influence sports can have on the physical body. Furthermore sports encourages. Nowadays, people with a disability are participating in high performance as well as in competitive and recreational sport. The number of people with disabilities involved in sports is steadily increasing as we have collaborated with Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC) and National Sports Association (NSA). Our Association has organized various sporting activities for our members, the events that our members has participated include table-tennis, sailing, bowling and the in the Standard Chartered marathon. For the National Disability League, our members participated in bowling, table-tennis and lawn bowls that are registered independently with the various NSAs. It is through such partnership with SDSC that public awareness of disability sports are raised in the community. 30

31 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 CENTRE FOR THE PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED The Centre for the Physically Challenged (CPC) was inaugurated in December 2010 and officially launched on 25 February It is a one-stop centre for People With Disabilities (PWDs) who feel that they can still work and be productive, to rehabilitate, re-train and seek employment. During the financial year, much was done to: (a) establish a unique identity for the programme; and (b) market CPC to both interested PWDs and employers. Client Profile Funding CPC is jointly operated by Abilities Beyond Limitations and Expectations (ABLE) and the Handicaps Welfare Association (HWA). ABLE takes care of the funds needed for this programme, while HWA attends to its operational needs. Over the financial year, 21 People With Disabilities (PWDs) benefited from subsidies for rehabilitation and 32 PWDs benefited from subsidies for transport. 31

32 annual report 2011/2012 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION Training The majority of courses are conducted within HWA. During the financial year, the most popular courses are those that encourage building up of office administration skills. 57 CPC clients took up 145 seats in the courses, while another 18 HWA members took up 28 seats to upgrade themselves. Job Placement During the financial year in question there were more than 60 job placements, the majority of which are in the service industry. Future Directions CPC s mission is to enable the physically challenged to lead a productive and independent life. Armed with a well-defined identity and a clear mission, CPC is now poised to be THE ONE-STOP CENTRE for rehabilitation, re-skilling and job placement for PWDs. CPC sells Limitless Possibilities! 32

33 HANDICAPS WELFARE ASSOCIATION annual report 2011/2012 ORGANISATION INFORMATION UEN Registered office Management Committee S69SS0057J 16 Whampoa Drive Singapore President Mr Edmund Wan Fook Wing Vice President Mr Hui Beng Hong Honorary Secretary Ms Judy Tan Keng Ngoh (with effect from 16 November 2011) Ms Nancy Chia (up to 16 November 2011) Honorary Assistant Secretary Ms Michelle Siew Teok See (with effect from 16 November 2011) Ms Judy Tan Keng Ngoh (up to 15 November 2011) Honorary Treasurer Ms Desiree Lim Kok Liang Honorary Assistant Treasurer Ms Wendy Lau Wong Hing (with effect from 19 October 2011) Mr Teo Teck Soon (up to 19 October 2011) Committee Members Mr Png Huat Weng, Philip Mr Chiu Tze Ming Mr Poon Wai Yuan (with effect from 1 September 2011) Mr Teo Teck Soon (with effect from 19 October 2011) Mr Henry Yong Chee Seng (up to 20 July 2011) Ms Jane Yeo Ai Gek (up to 15 February 2012) Ms Michelle Siew Teok See (up to 15 November 2011) Ms Wendy Lau Wong Hing (up to 19 October 2011) Executive Director Bankers Auditors Mr Subrata Banerjee DBS UOB OCBC Y.C. Lee & Co. Certified Public Accountants 79 Anson Road #07-03 Singapore