ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
VISION... To be a world-class voluntary welfare organisation that advances the development, well-being and aspirations of persons with intellectual disability and their integration into society MISSION... To maximise the development and well-being of persons with intellectual disability through the provision of a comprehensive range of quality services To empower persons with intellectual disability and their families so as to enable them to maximise their potential and fulfill their aspirations To advocate the interests and causes of persons with intellectual disability so as to enable them to participate as fully as possible in society SHARED VALUES... M - Move on with confidence I - Innovate for improvement N - Nurture with patience D - Determine to succeed S - Service with love
CONTENTS 02 Principal Officials... 04 Management Team... 06 Organisation Chart... 07 President s Review... 12 School Management Committee... Social Enterprise & 17 Employment Development Committee... Residential, Training & 21 Development Services Committee... 26 Allied Health Professionals Services... 28 Finance and Investment Committee... 30 Audit Committee... 31 Human Resource Committee... 33 IT Committee... 34 Volunteer and Donor Management Committee... 39 Building and Facilities Committee... Public Relations, Education 40 and Communications Committee... 42 MINDS CSG... 44 MINDS MYG... 46 Past Years Office Bearers...
PRINCIPAL OFFICIALS Mr Conrad Campos Executive Committee President Mr Gabriel Lim Executive Committee Vice President Mr Jeffrey Tan Executive Committee Honorary Secretary Mrs Mimi Tan Executive Committee Honorary Assistant Secretary Mr Ong Wee Gee Executive Committee Honorary Treasurer Mr Daniel Tan Executive Committee Member Mr Wilson Tan Executive Committee Member Mr Lim Yeow Khee Executive Committee Co-opted Member Mr Augustin Lee Executive Committee Co-opted Member Mr Manojit Sen Executive Committee Co-opted Member Executive Committee President Vice President Honorary Secretary Honorary Assistant Secretary Honorary Treasurer Honorary Assistant Treasurer Members Mr Conrad Campos Mr Gabriel Lim Mr Jeffrey Tan Mrs Mimi Tan Mr Ong Wee Gee Mr Boo Chong Han Capt Roger Loh Mr Kenneth Chua Mr Chng Ho Kiat Mr Daniel Tan Mr Wilson Tan 2 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
Patron Vice-Patron Dr Cheong Choong Kong Dr Aline Wong Advisors Dr S Vasoo Prof Tan Ser Kiat Mrs Jaya Mohideen Mr Boo Chong Han Executive Committee Honorary Assistant Treasurer Capt Roger Loh Executive Committee Member Mr Kenneth Chua Executive Committee Member Mr Chng Ho Kiat Executive Committee Member Ms Doreen Yap Executive Committee Co-opted Member Mr Gerald Ng Executive Committee Co-opted Member Mr Lim Jun Han Executive Committee Honorary Internal Auditor Mr Lee Ju Song Executive Committee Honorary Internal Auditor Co-opted Members Honorary Auditors Mr Lim Yeow Khee Mr Augustin Lee Mr Manojit Sen Ms Doreen Yap Mr Gerald Ng Mr Lim Jun Han Mr Lee Ju Song Representatives on the following organisations: National Council of Social Service Children s Charities Association Singapore Disability Sports Council Singapore Special Olympics Asian Federation on Intellectual Disabilities (AFID) Mr Conrad Campos Mr Jeffrey Tan Mr Kenneth Chua Mr Ong Wee Gee Capt Roger Loh Mr Jeffrey Tan MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 3
MANAGEMENT TEAM Seated from left to right: Mr Christopher Jap, Mr Keh Eng Song, Mr Terence Wong, Mr David Chan Standing from left to right: Ms Koh Gee May, Ms Yuen Lye Yong, Mrs Jeannie Ho, Ms Lai Aun Leng, Ms Sia Siew Lan, Mrs Rosaline Chee Headquarters Chief Executive Officer Director, Allied Health Professionals Services Director, Finance Director, Human Resources & Admin Mr Keh Eng Song Ms Koh Gee May Ms Lai Aun Leng Mrs Jeannie Ho Manager, Volunteer & Donor Management Manager, Facilities/ Procurement Accountant (Association) Accountant (Schools) Mrs Rosaline Chee Mr Terence Wong Mr David Chan Ms Sia Siew Lan Manager, Human Resources & Admin Ms Yuen Lye Yong Internal Auditor Mr Christopher Jap Standing from left to right: Ms Suzana Soo, Ms Josephine Ong, Ms Chia Poh Hong, Mr Anthony Tan, Ms Sharon Ng Special Schools Director, Schools Services & Head Curriculum Development Unit Principal, Fernvale Gardens School Ms Chia Poh Hong Mr Anthony Tan Principal, Towner Gardens School Principal, Woodlands Gardens School Ms Josephine Ong Ms Suzana Soo Principal, Lee Kong Chian Gardens School Ms Sharon Ng 4 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
Standing from left to right: Ms Prema Thevarajah, Mr Ng Mun Wai, Mr Stephen Shi, Mr Chao Ye Peng, Ms Ng Rei Na, Mr Leroy Lee Social Enterprise & Employment Development Centres Director, Social Enterprises Senior Manager, SIA-MINDS EDC Manager, Idea EDC Mr Chao Ye Peng Ms Prema Thevarajah Mr Stephen Shi Manager, Woodlands EDC Senior Manager, Social Enterprises Manager, Social Enterprises Mr Ng Mun Wai Ms Ng Rei Na Mr Leroy Lee Seated from left to right: Ms Shafiyah Sarwan, Ms Koh Gee May, Ms Rosalyn Peng, Standing from left to right: Ms Rose Kwek, Mr Mike Koh, Mr Ling Chong Beng Residential, Training & Development Services Director, Residential, Training & Development Services Head, MINDSville@Napiri - Children s Wing Ms Koh Gee May Ms Rose Kwek Head, Ang Mo Kio TDC Head, Clementi TDC Head, Napiri TDC Ms Rosalyn Peng Ms Shafiyah Sarwan Mr Mike Koh Head, MINDSville@Napiri - Hostel/Group Home Mr Ling Chong Beng MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 5
ORGANISATION CHART CONRAD CAMPOS President Executive Committee Sub Committees: KEH ENG SONG Chief Executive Officer CONRAD CAMPOS, Chairman & Supervisor - School Management (SMC) GABRIEL LIM, Chairman -Social Enterprise & Employment Development (SEED) ROGER LOH, Chairman - Residential & Training Development Services (RTDS) AUGUSTIN LEE, Chairman Allied Health Professionals (AHP) Services KENNETH CHUA, Chairman - Finance and Investment LIM JUN HAN, Chairman Audit MANOJIT SEN, Chairman - Human Resource ONG WEE GEE, Chairman IT CHNG HO KIAT, Chairman - Volunteer & Donor Management BOO CHONG HAN, Chairman - Public Relations, Education & Communications LIM YEOW KHEE, Chairman - Building & Facilities JEFFREY TAN, Chairman - Membership MIMI TAN, Chairman - MINDS CSG GERALD NG, Chairman MINDS MYG SPECIAL SCHOOLS CHIA POH HONG Director, Schools & Head, Curriculum Development Unit Principals: ANTHONY TAN Fernvale Gardens SHARON NG Lee Kong Chian Gardens JOSEPHINE ONG Towner Gardens SUZANA SOO Woodlands Gardens SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT CENTRES CHAO YE PENG Director, Social Enterprises Senior Managers: PREMA THEVARAJAH SIA-MINDS EDC NG REI NA Social Enterprises Managers: STEPHEN SHI Idea EDC NG MUN WAI Woodlands EDC LEROY LEE Social Enterprises RESIDENTIAL, TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES KOH GEE MAY Director, Residential Training & Development Services MINDSVILLE@NAPIRI Heads: KOH GEE MAY Home ROSE KWEK Children s Wing LING CHONG BENG Hostel/Group Home TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT CENTRES Heads: ROSALYN PENG Ang Mo Kio TDC SHAFIYAH SARWAN Clementi TDC MIKE KOH Napiri TDC CORPORATE SERVICES ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS (AHP) SERVICES Director, KOH GEE MAY FINANCE Director, LAI AUN LENG Accountant, DAVID CHAN Accountant, SIA SIEW LAN HR & ADMIN Director, JEANNIE HO Manager, YUEN LYE YONG FACILITIES/PROCUREMENT Manager, TERENCE WONG IT Administrator, CHIA SIEW TONG VOLUNTEER AND DONOR MANAGEMENT Manager, ROSALINE CHEE CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS Executive, BRENDA LEE CHRISTOPHER JAP Internal Auditor
PRESIDENT S REVIEW In recognition of the success of the Community Group Home project, MINDS was awarded the NCSS Outstanding VWO Award 2010 Special Mention in Innovation, during the NCSS Members Conference in 2010. With the success of the Community Group Home, there is now greater impetus to provide a range of residential options for special needs persons. We thank the residents of the local community for accepting our clients into their midst. Open Employment and Productive Work As at March 2011, a total of 36 clients have been placed in open employment at hotels, fast food restaurants, warehouses and leisure outlets under the Job Placement and Job Support Program (JPJS) Programme, and more than 80% of them were able to maintain their employment for at least 6 months. In addition, 41 clients and 16 of our staff successfully completed the WDA s WSQ Food Hygiene course. The year under review has been a fruitful year as we made incremental and concrete strides towards increasing the capacity of our Training and Development Centre (TDC) services, improving the employment opportunities for our adult clients in both open employment and sheltered environments, enhancing our professional knowledge and expertise to raise the quality of our services, improving how we engage our stakeholders, and last but not least, building management leadership, developing talent and nurturing a culture of passion for service. A Fourth TDC After a fairly extensive period of advocacy and consultation, the Ministry of Community Development Youth & Sports (MCYS) has granted our appeal for a new TDC in view of the long waitlist for day activity services. We are now working with the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) and the Housing Development Board (HDB) to identify a suitable site and are targeting 2012 for the opening of our 4th TDC. We have operated our TDCs as enhanced versions of Day Activity Centres (DACs) to cope with the high support needs of our clients. We are able to do this because of our economies of scale. Based on our projections, more TDCs will be required to meet the demands of our clients with high support needs. We will continue to engage and consult with our funding bodies to meet this demand. Community Group Home goes into operation at Bedok After considerable planning and preparation, 5 of our clients moved into 2 rented flats at Bedok in May 2010 to form the first Community Group Home in Singapore. This provision of a wider range of residential options for special needs persons is a significant milestone in improving the quality of life of special needs persons and a major step towards a more inclusive society. In going operational, our staff, together with the local Residents Committee, worked hard to create understanding and acceptance of the Community Group Home and our clients within the local community. I am told that having enjoyed the independence of community living, none of the 5 of them could ever imagine going back to living in an institutional home. I am also told that quite a few residents within the local community have come forward to befriend our clients and to volunteer their assistance. For many years, our sheltered workshops and social enterprises have been providing productive work for our adult clients. The recycling of headsets for Singapore Airlines and Singapore Airport Terminal Services has been and will continue to be a mainstay of productive work at our sheltered workshops. Our social enterprise units, MINDS Shop, MINDS Food, MINDS Perform, MINDS Craft and MINDS Wash also have provided a varied range of productive work beneficial to our clients. Over the year, we have built upon these viable platforms for productive work. Building a social enterprise to meet the needs of our clients is by any reckoning a challenging task. I am nevertheless confident that the work we have done over the year will yield results in the near future. Celebrating Caregivers, Families and Volunteers The combined MINDS Caregivers Support Group annual party and MINDS MYG family day saw the largest turnout of nearly 1,000 caregivers, family members, clients and volunteers on 5 March 2011 at the Toa Payoh Community Club. It was heartening to see families and volunteers come together for a day of fun and friendship. Over the course of the year in review, each of the schools and adult centres conducted a range of activities for families and volunteers. We also improved our channels of communication with caregivers and volunteers. This included a revamp of our MINDS website at www.minds.org.sg and the revamp of MINDSpeak, which I believe better reflect the vibrancy, colour and potential of our clients, and the dedication, hard work and professionalism of our staff and volunteers. MINDS will continue with its efforts to build capacity and expertise in supporting caregivers, families and volunteers. Schools of Excellence where Every Individual Matters That is the Vision Statement which the teachers and allied health professionals at our four schools, led by their Principals, came up with as their Vision Statement. In keeping with that Vision, the schools have in the course of the year been focusing their efforts on enhancing the quality of their services both at the macro and individual student level. Through a process of self-evaluation, the Schools have been preparing for the Quality Assurance Framework developed by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and NCSS and will be ready when external validation commences later this year or next year. The school curriculum was also further refined and rolled out in MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 7
November 2010 together with an assessment tool. The Reading Mastery Programme and Paths Programme initiated by MOE have also been rolled out with commendable outcomes. I am pleased to note that Lee Xin Xiang of Woodlands Gardens School and Abdul Halim Bin Abdul Jalil of Towner Gardens School (TGS) participated in the 5th Special Olympics held in Fuzhou, China and returned with 2 Gold and 2 Silver medals. Two teachers, Agnes Sim and Jeanie Morgan from TGS received the MOE/NCSS Commendation SPED Teacher Award in 2010. A parents survey was conducted in 2010 across the 4 schools to gauge parents satisfaction in respect of the quality of MINDS education programs, facilities, resources, and communication with parents. I am pleased to report that a 98% satisfaction level was achieved collectively based on a 66.6% participation rate. Medical and Health Screenings for Clients Medical and health screenings for the Napiri Home residents and TDC clients were stepped up to ensure prompt medical intervention and quality medical care. This was enabled through collaborations with the Singapore National Eye Centre, NUS School of Dentistry, SATA, volunteer doctors and MINDS in-house medical team. Human Resource Management & Training Over the years, we have consciously made an effort to distinguish between management and governance. This required improving our processes for transparency and accountability, and building a core management leadership team, led by the CEO, Mr Keh Eng Song, of directors, principals and centre heads to take the lead on operational and management matters, with the Executive Committee taking a step back on management matters and focusing on governance and strategic direction. We have developed a MINDS HR Management Framework with policies for recruitment and selection, orientation, performance management, recognition and retention, learning and development, and succession planning. With better performance evaluation at all levels, we are now better able to identify training needs as well as staff with potential. Succession planning has been put in focus not only as an aspect of HR management, but of corporate governance. In addition, a comprehensive 5-year training roadmap at each level and category of staff has been drawn up to enhance competencies. At the management leadership level, we welcomed Ms Josephine Ong as principal of TGS, Ms Sharon Ng as principal of Lee Kong Chian Gardens School and Mr Chao Ye Peng as Director of Social Enterprises. Both Josephine and Sharon were Vice Principals in mainstream schools and seconded by MOE to our schools. Ye Peng brings with him relevant experience in managing social enterprises. MINDS recognised that structured career pathways, leadership building and professional mentoring schemes are critical to raising the professional practices of allied health professionals, improving retention and supporting management in strategic development of services. The introduction of the AHP Bill (passed in January 2011) served as an additional impetus to upgrade our professional standards so as to meet the requirements of an Approved Centre. In January 2011, senior AHPs with the relevant experience and qualifications were appointed AHP Heads and Team Leaders for each discipline, with the responsibility for providing feedback on industry trends, evaluating service gaps and to develop new strategies, policies, processes, and solutions that will create value for the organisation and clients. Corporate Governance The hallmarks of corporate governance at MINDS are transparency, accountability and strong processes. I am pleased to inform you that as a large charity, we continue to comply fully with the refined Code of Governance for Charities and IPCs. We continued to build on our processes last year. An Internal Audit Charter was drawn up and implemented. A full time internal auditor, who reports to the CEO and Audit Committee, implements an internal audit plan. Purchase requisition procedures, IT and HR Manuals were reviewed and management staff were briefed and updated on internal control procedures and compliance. We also use technology to ensure that our processes are efficient. The electronic payment system was implemented to enhance the efficiency of the payment process and to enable better financial management and audit. The e-purchasing system was also refined to improve documentation standards, transparency and accountability at all levels. We continue to be conservative in the investment of our financial reserves, and with an eye on inflation on a longer time horizon, high quality fixed income assets with shorter durations and fixed deposits remain the preferred asset class. Moving Forward MINDS will celebrate its 50th Anniversary in 2012. This is a major milestone in MINDS history and development and a time to celebrate. We celebrate not only the organisation, but more importantly, the lives of persons with intellectual disabilities. The occasion of our 50th Anniversary would be a fitting opportunity to create public awareness of the needs and potential of persons with intellectual disabilities with a view to promoting their integration into a more inclusive society. We will inform you in due course of the programme and activities of the 50th Anniversary, and we hope that all of you will join us in our celebrations. In the Committee of Supply debates in 2011, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, the then Minister for Community Development, Youth & Sports announced the MCYS 5-year Enabling Masterplan (2012 to 2016), with its focus on early intervention, and adult care and caregiver support for persons with special needs. MINDS will participate and contribute actively to the Enabling Masterplan so as to meet the needs of our clients and their caregivers. Acknowledgement and Appreciation MINDS has been very fortunate to enjoy strong support and goodwill of many corporate and individual donors and volunteers, who have very generously contributed money, resources or their time in furtherance of our cause over the past year and consistently over many years. To all our donors and volunteers, we say a big thank you. I would also like to thank my fellow board members and our staff for their passion, dedication, and hard work over the course of the year to deliver on the many initiatives of MINDS, as well as on the services, care and support that our clients require on a daily basis. Last but not least, I would like to thank the MOE, MCYS, NCSS, Community Chest and Tote Board for the funding of our programmes, as well as for their guidance and support. Conrad Campos President 8 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
GOVERNANCE EVALUATION CHECKLIST FOR ADVANCED TIER Applicable to large IPCs with gross annual receipts of $10 million or more For the financial year 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011. S/N Description Code ID Response Reasons for Non-Compliance A Board Governance Are there Board members holding staff appointment? (Skip items 1 and 2 if No ) No 1 If the governing instrument permits staff to become Board members, they should comprise not more than one-third of the Board. 2 Staff does not chair the Board. 1.1.2 Not Applicable 1.1.2 Not Applicable Although MINDS Constitution does not specifically state whether staff can become Board members, we do not have any staff as Board member currently. 3 There is a maximum limit of four consecutive years for the Treasurer position (or equivalent, eg Finance Committee Chairman). 1.1.6 Complied MINDS Constitution states that the Honorary Treasurer shall serve not more than two consecutive terms (or a maximum of four consecutive years). Further re-appointment to the Honorary Treasurer position shall be allowed after a lapse of at least one financial year. 4 The Board conducts regular self-evaluation to assess its performance and effectiveness. 1.1.10 Complied The last self-evaluation was done in early 2009. We are planning to conduct the next self-evaluation in November 2011. 5 The Board has an audit committee (or designated Board members) with documented terms of reference. 6 The Board meets regularly with a quorum of at least one-third or at least three members, whichever is greater (or as required by the governing instrument). Conflict of Interest 7 There are documented procedures for Board members and staff to declare actual or potential conflicts of interest to the Board. 1.2.1 Complied MINDS Constitution provides for two voting members, not being members of the Board to be elected as Honorary Internal Auditors at the Annual General Meeting and will hold office for a term of two years only and shall not be re-elected for a consecutive term. Together with other volunteers, they form the Audit Committee with one of the two elected Honorary Internal Auditor being the chairperson of the Committee. 1.3.1 Complied Although MINDS Constitution stipulates Board Meetings to be held at least once every 2 months, the Board actually meets every month whenever possible, except for December. According to the Constitution, five members shall form a quorum, with one of whom shall be the President, Vice- President or Honorary Secretary in order for its proceeding to be valid. 2.1 Complied Board members and staff are required to declare potential conflicts of interest annually in the Conflict of Interest Declaration Form. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 9
S/N Description Code ID Response Reasons for Non-Compliance 8 Board members do not vote or participate in decision-making on matters where they have a conflict of interest. Strategic Planning 9 The Board reviews and approves the vision and mission of the charity. They are documented and communicated to its members and the public. 10 The Board approves and reviews a strategic plan for the charity to ensure that the activities are in line with its objectives. Human Resource Management 11 The Board approves documented human resource policies for staff. 12 There are systems for regular supervision, appraisal and professional development of staff. 13 There is a system to address grievances and resolve conflicts. Financial Management and Controls 14 The Board ensures internal control systems for financial matters are in place with documented procedures. 15 The Board ensures reviews on the charity s controls, processes, key programmes and events. 16 The Board approves an annual budget for the charity s plans and regularly monitors its expenditure. 2.4 Complied All Board members are prohibited from any business dealings and contracts with MINDS. A Board member with a declared conflict of interest is not allowed to vote or participate in decision making on the matter. 3.1.1 Complied The review is carried out periodically. The vision and mission are published in MINDS website (http://www.minds.org.sg) as well as in the Annual Report. 3.2.2 Complied Strategic directions are set by the Board at the beginning of each term. The 3 key sub-committees, namely School Management Committee, Social Enterprise and Employment Development Committee, and Residential, Training and Development Services Committee will review and approve the schools and centres workplans and budgets annually. 5.1 Complied HR policies for staff are endorsed by the HR Committee and approved by the Board. 5.6 Complied Annual appraisal and training road maps and plans are in place for all staff. MINDS attained the People Developer Standard Award (now known as People Excellence Award) in December 2006 and renewed in December 2009. 5.11 Complied Staff Grievance Procedure is documented within the Collective Agreement with the Union. 6.1.2 Complied This is under the supervision of the Finance and Investment Committee and documented procedures are approved by the Board. 6.1.3 Complied Compliance is ensured by the Audit Committee which is supported by an Internal Auditor reporting to the CEO and the Audit Committee. 6.2.1 Complied The sector sub-committees are responsible for the annual budget and its subsequent monitoring. The annual budget is then endorsed by the Finance and Investment Committee and approved by the Board. 17 The charity discloses its reserves policy in the annual report. Quarterly budget reviews are conducted for both the schools and the adult sector. 6.4.1 Complied Reserves policy is disclosed in MINDS Annual Report. B Does the charity invest its reserves? (Skip item 18 if No ) Yes 10 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
S/N Description Code ID Response Reasons for Non-Compliance 18 The charity invests its reserves in accordance with an investment policy approved by the Board. It obtains advice from qualified professional advisors, if deemed necessary by the Board. Fundraising Practices 19 Donations collected are properly recorded and promptly deposited by the charity. Disclosure and Transparency 20 The charity makes available to its stakeholders an annual report that includes information on its programmes, activities, audited financial statements, Board members and executive management. 6.4.3 Complied MINDS invests its surplus funds according to written and Board-approved Investment Policy guidelines via the Finance and Investment Committee. 7.2.2 Complied In addition, donations received are reported monthly to the Board. 8.1 Complied An Annual Report is published yearly. Other than distributing the hard copy, it is also available in MINDS website. C Are Board members remunerated for their Board services? (Skip items 21 and 22 if No ) 21 No Board member is involved in setting his or her own remuneration. 22 The charity discloses the exact remuneration and benefits received by each Board member in the annual report. D Does the charity employ paid staff? (Skip items 23 and 24 if No ) No Not Applicable Not Applicable Yes No Board member is paid for his/her service. No Board member is remunerated by MINDS. No Board member is remunerated by MINDS. 23 No staff is involved in setting his or her own remuneration 24 The charity discloses in its annual report the annual remuneration of its three highest paid staff who each receives remuneration exceeding $100,000, in bands of $100,000. If none of its top three highest paid staff receives more then $100,000 in annual remuneration each, the charity discloses this fact. Public Image 25 The charity accurately portrays its image to its members, donors and the public. 2.2 Complied MINDS follows very closely the salary scales provided by NCSS. Where deviations are necessary, they are approved by the HR Committee. 8.3 Complied This is disclosed in MINDS Annual Report. 9.1 Complied MINDS vision, mission, programmes and activities are contained in the Annual Report which is distributed to key stakeholders. In addition, such information are also available in MINDS website. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 11
SCHOOL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Seated from left to right: Mr Boo Chong Han, Ms Toh Leng Leng, Mr Conrad Campos, Mr Justin Lim, Mr Kenneth Chua Standing from left to right: Ms Josephine Ong, Ms Suzana Soo, Mr Anthony Tan, Ms Chia Poh Hong, Dr Bhavani Sriram, Ms Sharon Ng, Mr Keh Eng Song Supervisor & Chairman Treasurer MOE Representative Members Chief Executive Officer Director, Schools Services & Head, Curriculum Development Unit Principal, Fernvale Gardens Principal, Lee Kong Chian Gardens Principal, Woodlands Gardens Principal, Towner Gardens & SMC Secretary for 2011 Observers: Director, Human Resources & Admin Director, Finance Mr Conrad Campos Mr Justin Lim Ms Toh Leng Leng Mr Kenneth Chua Mr Chng Ho Kiat Mr Boo Chong Han Dr Bhavani Sriram Mr Keh Eng Song Ms Chia Poh Hong Mr Anthony Tan Mrs Jenny Alexander (up to 31 Dec 2010) Ms Sharon Ng (from 15 Dec 2010) Ms Suzana Soo Ms Josephine Ong Ms Jeannie Ho Ms Lai Aun Leng 12 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
The Schools had a vibrant year, highlighted by the achievements of its students and staff, the roll out of key professional initiatives, active participation of parents in school activities, and community support for the schools learning and co-curricular activities and projects. A parents survey was conducted in July 2010 with 66.6% participation rate. 98% of the parents who responded indicated that they were satisfied with the quality of the educational programme, facilities and resources, and schools engagement and communication with parents and caregivers. We welcomed Josephine Ong as principal of Towner Gardens School and Sharon Ng as principal of Lee Kong Chian Gardens School. Both are on secondment from the Ministry of Education and bring with them the experience of vice-principals in mainstream primary schools and passion for special education. We thank Salha Soo and Jenny Alexander for their many years of contribution as teachers and principals at MINDS Schools. MINDS schools are committed to the vision of building Schools of Excellence where every individual matters, and delivering on its mission of providing a vibrant learning environment that inspires our students towards independence and integration into society. Current School Programmes Our schools provide three levels of education: Junior - 7 to 12 years old Senior - 13 to 18 years old Special - 7 to 18 years old who have high behaviour support needs With the start of the new school year from 1 January 2011, we stopped accepting children between the ages of 4 and 6 for our pre-school programme. This was part of the rationalization of our school services and is consistent with the provision of education in mainstream schools for children from age 7 onwards. A. Core curriculum content : Academics - numeracy and literacy skills Social Competency Health Education Domestic Science Social Studies Physical Education Aesthetics/art and craft, music and dance Pre-vocational skills Science and Technology B. Co-curricular and Pupil Enrichment Activities Uniformed groups Educational visits Drama, dance, arts and sports programmes Camping Pupil Enrollment as at 31 March 2011 Junior Senior Special Total School Non ASD ASD Non ASD ASD Non ASD ASD Non ASD ASD Total FGS 78 2 101 9 16 27 195 38 233 LGS 93 2 92 19 24 18 209 39 248 TGS 84 4 139 7 29 26 252 37 289 WGS 110 6 97 7 32 15 239 28 267 Total 365 14 429 42 101 86 895 142 1037 ASD Autism Spectrum Disorder Staff Strength as at 31 March 2011 FGS LGS TGS WGS Total Principal 1 1 1 1 4 Vice Principal 1 0 1 0 2 Teachers including contract teachers 42 37 51 41 171 Teacher Assistants including contract TAs 5 8 7 8 28 Social Workers 2 2 2 2 8 Psychologists 2 2 2 2 8 Physiotherapists 1 1 1 1 4 Occupational Therapists 1 0 1 1 3 Speech Therapists 1 2 1 1 5 Administration cum Operations Manager 1 1 1 1 4 Clerical/Accounts Staff 4 3 2 4 13 SW Assistant cum Clerical 0 1 1 1 3 General Workers 5 4 4 5 18 Total 66 62 75 68 271 Curriculum Developers Shared by all schools 4 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 13
ACHIEVEMENT HIGHLIGHTS Student Achievements In recognition of the ability of persons with special needs, special education schools were provided with funding for awards for students who made significant progress or excelled in the course of the year. A total of 71 Good Progress Awards and 27 Special Achievement Awards were presented to deserving students across all levels at the end of the calendar school year in November 2010. Lee Xin Xiang of Woodlands Gardens School and Abdul Halim Abdul Jalil of Towner Gardens School were selected by Special Olympics Singapore to participate in the 5th Special Olympics Games held in Fuzhou, China from 19 to 25 September 2010. Both returned with 2 Gold and 2 Silver medals. The Scouts Groups of Woodlands Gardens School and Lee Kong Chian Gardens School were awarded the Frank Cooper Sands Silver Awards 2010, in recognition of the units good performance. The Scouts Group of Towner Gardens School was awarded the Frank Cooper Sands Bronze Award 2010 in recognition of the unit s active participation in scouting activities. Staff Awards Two teachers from Towner Gardens School, Agnes Sim-Gee Lee Kien and Jeanie Morgan received Commendation Certificates at the MOE-NCSS SPED Teacher Award Ceremony held on 12 November at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel. Madeline Ho from Towner Gardens School was given the Chief Scout s Commendation Award. Chin Ngeet Hin, psychologist of Woodlands Gardens School received a sponsorship from MOE to attend the Diploma in Educational Psychology in NIE. Two teachers from Woodlands Gardens School, Santha Raman and Sidah Jasmin received a special award for their contribution to the Extension Scouts Movement. Professional Initiatives The refined MINDS Curriculum was rolled out for implementation in November 2010 together with the beta copy of the assessment tool. The curriculum is uploaded into MINDS School Intranet for easy access by staff. The final copy of the assessment will be uploaded into the system to measure students achievement of the curriculum learning outcomes. On 9 October 2010, MINDS organized the MINDS Symposium Curriculum In Partnership with Stakeholders at the Furama Riverfront Hotel. The Guest-of-Honour was our Patron, Dr Cheong Choong Kong. It was attended by senior representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Community Development Youth, & Sports, the National Council of Social Service, members of MINDS Executive Committee, staff from all sectors in MINDS, caregivers and volunteers. The key achievement of this Symposium was that it provided a platform for the exchange of ideas among stakeholders. MINDS staff also had the opportunity to present their action research studies and the innovative programmes that have been implemented in their centres and schools. It was a day of professional sharing and learning for the staff and stakeholders, creating better awareness and understanding of MINDS work and achievements. 14 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
The transition programme for graduating students expanded with many more work attachments at businesses and corporations. Towner Gardens School was able to place students in Shangri-La Hotel s F & B section to do napkin folding besides the on-going attachment in the housekeeping department. Woodlands Gardens School successfully attached 2 graduating students with a KFC branch and this provided a good opportunity for employment possibilities for them upon graduation. Fernvale Gardens School continued to engage the students in job experiences within the Fernvale Community and feedbacks from these employers were very positive. As an initiative to enhance communication skills for all students, training on the use of a Basic Key Word Signs was conducted for staff by Eva Loh, speech therapist of Lee Kong Chian Gardens School. It is hoped that with this extra support, our students will be able to express themselves better. School Quality Assurance Framework (QAF) for School Evaluation MOE/NCSS introduced and piloted the QAF tool for evaluation of the quality of school s operational and professional processes and performance outcomes. Each school submitted a self-evaluation report in January 2011, in readiness for the QAF when it will be implemented in 2012. MINDS 23rd Sports Meet Students participated in MINDS Sports Meet held on 24 April 2010 at Yishun Sports Stadium. There were 13 events including one that involved the students/clients and their family members. Mr Oon Jin Teik, CEO of the Singapore Sports Council graced the event as the Guest-of-Honour. Recycling Outreach Programme by National Environment Agency Fernvale Gardens School was awarded the Recycling Outreach Programme Sustained Achievement Award (Silver) on 19 Feb 2011. Staff and students had been engaged in recycling efforts since 2008. Staff Development To build staff capabilities, 14 staff from the four schools went on a Learning Journey to Adelaide during the June holidays. The objective was to learn more about the Australian special education practices and post school provisions. Upon their return, the group made two major recommendations with respect to the transition programme for preparing students for adult life namely, streaming of students age 13 to programmes suited to individual capabilities, and building of individual student portfolios. These two recommendations were accepted and implemented in January 2011. Erni Noorhaidah of Woodlands Gardens School went on a two weeks learning visit cum educational attachment in Sydney to acquire knowledge on most school provisions for persons with special needs. She now heads a team to look into enhancing the transition training programme of her school. Senior staff were encouraged to organize learning journeys for their colleagues as part of their leadership training. The schools also initiated peer classroom observations to enhance teachers instructional skills besides sending staff on courses and seminars by SSTI and other training providers. Parental Involvement School-based workshops were conducted for parents on tips for working with their children at home. These workshops were well attended, indicating that parents were very keen to contribute to their children s learning. Parents also attended workshops on various topics conducted by the allied health professionals across MINDS on Saturdays. About 70% of parents participated in the Teacher/Parent conferencing held twice a year to discuss their child s progress and education plans. Parents were very responsive to feedback requested or given by teachers on their child s learning and needs. Parents also volunteered their time and assistance in many school functions and activities in the course of the year. They also participated in school events such as the MINDS Symposium and the MINDS 23rd Sports Meet MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 15
Community Involvement Programme (CIP) Throughout the year, schools were actively involved in numerous community projects and activities with mainstream schools as well as with businesses and corporations. These community projects and activities strengthened community relationships, promote better understanding of persons with special needs and their acceptance into the mainstream of society. Some corporate employers opened their doors to work attachments for our senior students, providing them the opportunity to enhance their open employment possibilities. The community involvement activities carried out during the year include: Collaboration between the schools and SCDF on safety and emergency drills. Woodlands Gardens School had been and will continue collaborating with Innova Junior College in IT activities for the senior level students. The school also maintained close partnership with Raffles Institution Junior College Interact Club which assisted in classroom activities, Singapore Armed Forces Ammunition Command which organised visits to places of interest, and the SAFTI Military Institute voluntary work with the senior students. Fernvale Gardens School engaged partners like Raffles Institution and NatSteel to carry out activities that enhanced the curriculum. Raffles Institution students planned and carried out simple science activities to assist our students to learn and understand the world around them. The school also linked up with Fernvale Primary School on the Satellite Partnership Programme initiated by MOE. Towner Gardens School maintained close partnership with Shangri-La Hotel in the work preparation programme for the senior students. Other partners included ITE East College which provided the students with hairdressing training, and Paya Lebar Airbase which assisted in school activities. Lee Kong Chian Gardens School maintained partnership with United World College for many years and participated in celebration of special events like Racial Harmony Day, Lunar New Year Celebration and other festive occasions with various schools in the neighbourhood. FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN The workplans and targets are categorized under these key strategic thrusts: A Building on curriculum, programmes and teaching and learning resources: Implement MINDS curriculum and beta copy of the assessment across all levels, and review the delivery of the curriculum in the classrooms. Review and build upon the delivery of the Reading Mastery Programme and PATHS Programme. Make available the curriculum and assessment documents to staff through the intranet. Make available teaching and learning resources to parents and caregivers. Improve the use of IT in schools for teaching, learning and communication. Streamline and improve the transition of graduating students to after-school centres. B Building Student Capabilities: Develop and strengthen literacy, oral and IT skills of students. Enhance the preparation of students for transition to afterschool services with the implementation of the 3-tracks forecast and building of individual student portfolios. The 3 tracks identified are: a. Open Employment b. MINDS Employment Development Centres c. MINDS Training & Development Centres Enable qualifying students to obtain certification in work skills. C Building Staff Capabilities: Instil in schools a staff learning and sharing culture. Implement the staff learning and training roadmap, in line with schools areas of focus and individual staff development needs. Identify and groom staff for leadership roles and succession plan. Encourage staff to conduct school-based research and be involved in research studies by other professional bodies. Encourage greater inter-disciplinary case management approaches for students learning. D Building Better Partnership with Family and the Community: Enhance platforms for communication with caregivers. Encourage parent volunteerism in school projects and activities. Establish relationship with and engage local community groups, corporate bodies and mainstream schools for more effective CIP programmes and professional initiatives. 16 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Seated from left to right: Ms Prema Thevarajah, Mrs Jeannie Ho, Mr Gabriel Lim, Ms Lai Aun Leng Standing from left to right: Mr Keh Eng Song, Mr Daniel Tan, Mr Chao Ye Peng, Mr Ng Mun Wai, Ms Ng Rei Na, Mr Wong Loke Kuan Not in picture: Mr Wilson Tan, Mr Stephen Shi, Ms Chia Poh Hong, Mr Leroy Lee Chairman Members Chief Executive Officer Director, Social Enterprises Director, Human Resources & Admin Director, Finance Director, School Services & Head of CDU Senior Manager, Social Enterprises Senior Manager, SIA-MINDS Employment Development Centre (SMEDC) Manager, Idea Employment Development Centre (IEDC) Manager, Woodlands Employment Development Centre (WEDC) Manager, Social Enterprises Mr Gabriel Lim Mr Wong Loke Kuan Mr Wilson Tan Mr Daniel Tan Mr Keh Eng Song Mr Chao Ye Peng Mrs Jeannie Ho Ms Lai Aun Leng Ms Chia Poh Hong Ms Ng Rei Na Ms Prema Thevarajah Mr Stephen Shi Mr Ng Mun Wai Mr Leroy Lee MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 17
The Social Enterprise & Employment Development (SEED) Committee was spun out of the Service Development Committee to provide more attention and resources to MINDS social enterprises. Terms of Reference 1. To provide strategic guidance to the development and viable management of social enterprises, including: a. Specifying the policy statement/objectives b. Translating the policy statement/objectives into operational guidelines for the management and implementation; c. Monitoring and evaluating the various social enterprises viability, the operations of the Employment Development Centres, and the employment opportunities via regular reports/updates provided by the management team; d. Assisting to identify potential business opportunities for further consideration; and e. Providing guidance to the social enterprise and operations teams to achieve the above goals. 2. To approve the establishment of social enterprises within the delegated limits of authority provided by the Executive Committee. 3. To support the Executive Committee in its strategic management, including inter alia: a. Ensuring proper governance, policies, processes and controls in the social enterprises; and b. Overseeing the implementation of major decisions made by the Executive Committee The clients and staff at SMEDC continued to attend external training programmes to enhance their skills and behaviours. 10 clients and 2 staff completed a course on Mosaic Art Creations. 5 clients also learnt paper coiling craft from the Japanese Association. A total of 41 clients and 16 staff across the 3 EDCs successfully completed the WSQ Food Hygiene course. The IEDC was successful in securing a contract with a local DIY hardware company to carry out packaging and assembling of household items including nails and screws. IEDC also sent one of its clients, Tan Yu Ping, to participate in the bowling competition at the 5th Special Olympics Games held in Fuzhou, China, from 19 to 25 September 2010. Yu Ping successfully won 2 Silver medals in the men s single and double categories. Yu Ping s self-confidence was boosted by the overseas trip and his good performance. EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT CENTRE (EDCs) Clients Muster and Staff Strength as at 31 March 2011 Centre Clients Staff SMEDC 383 51 IEDC 318 56 WEDC 287 39 Total 988 146 MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Programme Highlights The SIA headset recycling contract was successfully renewed for another two years. In addition, the SMEDC took on new ad hoc contract work such as the assembling and packing of fun packs, annual passes and book wrapping for a large leisure company. SMEDC also took on additional ad hoc jobs for the SAF. SMEDC continued with the attachment programme for senior students of Lee Kong Chian Gardens School (LGS) to prepare them for work demands and expectations. The students were closely assessed for their abilities and areas for improvement. 18 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
The Woodlands Employment Development Centre (WEDC) continued to carry out headset recycling for SATS. WEDC also managed to secure other contract jobs with local companies including packing and assembling of goody bags, snacks, wallpaper catalogues and cards. WEDC was also engaged with various volunteer programmes. One such programme was the job shadowing programme with Pioneer Junior College that had continued into the second year. Both the students and WEDC s clients benefited from the social interaction and planned activities. Grace s supervisor commended her for being a hardworking and co-operative staff. When there was a shortage of front-end staff, Grace also had to do the lobby crew s work, as she could handle the customers and treat them with respect. Grace s mother is very happy that her daughter is given the opportunity to be placed in open employment. She looks forward to better work opportunities with higher pay for Grace in future. In the area of sports, one of WEDC s special achievements was the selection of two of its clients to be torch bearers for the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympics Games. Both Woodlands Gardens School and WEDC formed a cheering team comprising teachers, training officers, students and clients, and cheered the torch bearers as they passed by Bendemeer Road. Job Placement/Job Support Programme (JPJS) The JPJS programme met with much success. As at March 2011, a total of 36 clients had been placed in jobs in hotels, fast food restaurants, warehouses and leisure outlets. More than 80% of the clients were able to maintain their employment for at least 6 months. After graduating from the JPJS programme, they would be transferred back to their respective EDCs for further support. OPEN EMPLOYMENT SUCCESS STORY Kanmalar d/o Veeraian Kanmalar, a capable and independent young woman, is one of the 8 clients who have graduated from the JPJS Programme. Kanmalar was enrolled with SMEDC in January 2006 where she received vocational and social skills training and was deemed suitable for open employment. Prior to her referral to the JPJS Programme, she had previous work experience in an office, helping to scan and file documents. She returned to SMEDC when the company closed down, thereafter she was placed successfully as an administrative assistant at Freshening Industries Pte Ltd. Her job scope included sorting documents, matching invoices, photocopying materials and running simple errands in the office. On February 2011, Kanmalar got married in India at her parents hometown. She was overjoyed to be a bride and also happy to return to work. She was grateful to her employer for supporting her employment aspirations. Grace Sangeetha Grace Sangeetha worked as a part-time dishwasher cum kitchen helper at Sakura Cuisine at Yishun Northpoint. She was placed in open employment since February 2009 through the WEDC open employment initiative. Grace shared that her tasks included washing dishes and clearing tables. She was happy working at Sakura and started to build friendships with Shareyzza, another MINDS client working there as well as her Manager. She said that her co-workers are friendly and helpful, and her Training Officer, Melissa Teo and Occupational Therapist, Aariyapillai Rajagopal Reena had both been very supportive in her work. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 19
New Contract Works and Social Enterprises New jobs were introduced into the programme. These jobs provided good training opportunities for clients and generated more revenues that were channelled back as allowances for the clients. New contract works include the following: Assembling and packing of fun packs, snacks and goody bags Packing of annual passes and book wrapping Quality check for raincoats for Force21 Pasting of labels on brochures Rolling of gift wrappers Napkin folding Packaging of nails and screws Assembling of catalogues for print companies Card packing services The 5 social enterprise units, MINDS Shop, MINDS Food, MINDS Perform, MINDS Craft and MINDS Wash performed well during the period of 2010/11 and met their respective targets. EDC - AHP Research Project: Client Profile Checklist The Client Profile Assessment project was launched in November 2009. A set of Client Profile Checklist (CPC) was developed by the EDCs Psychologists with input from training officers. The function of the CPC is to map each client s unique needs, strengths and weaknesses through factors spread across 9 domains: Domain 1 - Activities of Daily Living Domain 2 - Sexuality Awareness and Relationship Management Domain 3 - Basic Vocational Skills Domain 4 - Advanced Vocational Skills Domain 5 - Emotional and Behavioural Regulation Domain 6 - Levels and Forms of Support Required Domain 7 - Leisure and Recreation Domain 8 - Social and Communication Skills Domain 9 - Basic Functional and Cognitive Skills Most of the clients (485 males and 391 females) in the 3 EDCs were screened on the above 9 domains. A group of final year NUS Psychology interns participated and assisted resident psychologists at the respective EDCs to conduct the screening exercise. It was found that there was close correlation between the scores and their required level of support. The CPC shows promise as a screening instrument to determine the support needs of clients in the EDCs. In conjunction with the CPC, another analytical exercise using a Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analysis was conducted to determine the optimal level of client s support needs. It was found that clients who scored below 99 on the CPC are most likely to be categorized under the High Support group while those who scored above 111 are more likely to fall into the Low Support group. Those whose score fall in between would fall into the Moderate Support group. The use of these analytical tools would be useful for the screening of trainees entering the EDC and would allow better identification of trainees who are likely to benefit from more activity-based training and those more suited for vocational training. FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN In the coming year, the focus of the EDCs will be on 5 areas: Improve the productivity of the Sheltered Workshops Develop new skills to secure bigger and more sustainable contract work for the Sheltered Workshops Enhance the quality of products and businesses of the existing Social Enterprises Develop new sustainable Social Enterprises Increase the number of clients placed in open employment through the JPJS programme 20 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
RESIDENTIAL, TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES COMMITTEE Seated from left to right: Ms Rose Kwek, Ms Shafiyah Sarwan, Ms Koh Gee May, Ms Rosalyn Peng, Mrs Jeannie Ho, Ms Lai Aun Leng Standing from left to right: Mr Ling Chong Beng, Mr Chia Wee Peng, Mr Tan Beng Hai, Capt Roger Loh, Mr Mike Koh, Mr Keh Eng Song Not in picture: Mrs Mimi Tan Chairman Members Chief Executive Officer Director, Residential, Training & Development Services Director, Schools Services & Head of CDU Director, Human Resources & Admin Director, Finance Head, Ang Mo Kio Training & Development Centre (ATDC) Head, Clementi Training & Development Centre (CTDC) Head, Napiri Training & Development Centre (NTDC) Head, MINDSville@Napiri Childrens Wing Head, MINDSville@Napiri Hostel/Group Home Capt Roger Loh Mr Chia Wee Peng Mr Tan Beng Hai Mrs Mimi Tan Mr Keh Eng Song Ms Koh Gee May Ms Chia Poh Hong Mrs Jeannie Ho Ms Lai Aun Leng Ms Rosalyn Peng Ms Shafiyah bte Ahmad Sarwan Mr Mike Koh Ms Rose Kwek Mr Ling Chong Beng MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 21
RESIDENTIAL SERVICES - MINDSVILLE@NAPIRI Clients Muster and Staff Strength as at 31 March 2011 Services Residents Staff Home 100 65 Hostel / Group Home 47 14 Community Group Home 5 3 (shared with Hostel) Children s Wing 20 21 Total 172 103 MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Outcome Management (OM) OM is a framework adopted by NCSS to track the effectiveness of the programme through the achievement of client successes/ changes. It focuses on the benefits of the programme to the clients outcomes rather than inputs and processes of the programme. The results are reported to NCSS half yearly. For the Home, the residents progress and achievements were closely monitored to assess the effectiveness of the Adaptive Daily Living (ADL) Skills and Community Living Skills (CLS) programmes implemented. For FY 10/11, the Home was able to achieve both outcomes stipulated in the OM. The Hostel/Group Home was able to achieve the outcome stipulated which was to track the effectiveness of Community Living Skills (CLS) implemented. The Children s Wing also achieve the 2 outcomes stipulated which was to increase clients functional independence and the ability for them to access and use different types of community facilities. MINDSVILLE@NAPIRI HOME Programme Development One of the main focuses of the Home is to look into providing quality nursing care for ageing residents. The nursing and care staff carried out regular body check (i.e. blood pressure taking, blood glucose test, weight measurement etc.) and wound management to maintain residents physical well-being. For residents with longterm chronic medical conditions such as epilepsy, high cholesterol, diabetes mellitus, hepatitis B etc., the nursing/care staff regularly reviewed all their medications and monitored their progress from their routine blood test or ultra-sound test to ensure prompt medical intervention. nursing intervention would be promptly referred to nursing homes for more effective management. Regular medical screenings were conducted by volunteer doctors to ensure prompt medical intervention. With the two in-house Healthcare Consultants (both foreign trained doctors) and two volunteer doctors to manage the medical needs of the residents, the quality of medical care had been greatly enhanced. Home training programmes focused on promoting residents independence and participation in purposeful activities. These training programmes would be regularly reviewed and revised to meet the residents individual needs. For aged clients, programmes on health & wellness, exercises, age-appropriate games & activities, weight management and health screening improve physical and mental well-being. Care and engagement programmes cater to residents with high support need, and resources such as music, visuals, assistive devices are used to engage residents with challenging behaviours. With these training programmes implemented, the EPES milestones agreed with NCSS were effectively achieved. MINDSVILLE@NAPIRI HOSTEL/GROUP HOME Programme Development The Hostel successfully supported 9 residents or 17% of the total Hostel and Community Group Home muster into open employment. 6 were employed by McDonald's and 3 worked as kitchen helpers in the food sector. In line with promoting sports participation, an athletic team coached by one of the Hostel Community Facilitators was formed in February 2009. The residents trained every week at the Hougang Stadium, two of them Azizah Bte Karim and Wanita d/o R Nagappen were selected for the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games held in Athens, Greece from 20 June 2011 to 4 July 2011. Both were exuberant that their hard work paid off and gave them the strong foundations to be selected for the competition. The Hostel would continue with the training and work towards securing more opportunities for the residents to participate in Sports Meets within the disabilities sector and also to have friendly matches with competitors from the general public. The exposures would better prepare the residents for the competitions. Such activities raised the residents self-confidence and motivation to do their best. Selected nursing staff attended upgrading training at ITE to be equipped in tube feeding and catheterisation. As residents aged, more of such intensive nursing care would be needed. Senior staff and allied health professionals were also equipped with training related to ageing and geriatric care. Nursing care protocols were reviewed quarterly to ensure they meet residents' needs. Aged residents requiring intensive 22 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
Community Group Home 3 male and 2 female residents moved into the 2 units of Community Group Home located in Bedok on 10 May 2010. The Community Group Home was set up to train the residents to live with minimum support in the community and to enhance their quality of life through social inclusion and provision of choices. To ensure their success, support such as regular needs assessments, individual and group counselling are provided. Smart home technology, physical accessibility modifications and assistive technology devices were also installed. The Community Group Home was featured in an article published by TODAY on 20 Sep 2010 portraying how the residents had benefited from the project. MINDS was also awarded the NCSS Outstanding VWO Award 2010 Special Mention in Innovation during NCSS Members Conference. Rozana Bte A Talib, the Community Facilitator responsible for the training and care of this group of residents has been selected to present a paper titled Journey towards Community Living Challenges, Lessons Learnt, and Outcomes in the 20th AFID Conference in Jeju, Korea in August 2011. MINDSVILLE@NAPIRI CHILDREN S WING Programme Development The activities and programmes designed for the Children s Wing aimed to promote and prepare children with intellectual disability to re-integrate into their families. All new admissions are assessed through the Psychological Adaptive Behaviour instrument within 2 months of admission. Based on this assessment and consultations with the allied health professionals and the child s family, individualized care plans (ICPs) are drawn up. The ICPs include a section on family intervention and are reviewed quarterly to ensure that the intervention programmes and targeted outcomes benefit the children. Two contract therapists were also engaged to provide occupational therapy programmes and to help the children develop social skills. An integral part of case managing these young children is to help their families develop strategies to understand and meet the children s needs. Family events are held quarterly to strengthen family ties and provide a platform for parents to meet and support one another. Family members are also encouraged to join the outings and special events organised by MINDS CSG (caregivers support group) and corporate partners. Allied health professionals also conducted workshops and siblings camp to empower and support the families and their siblings. Out of the 25 children, one child successfully re-integrated into his family whilst two others were transferred to the Hostel for more independent living arrangements. Family Involvement, Caregivers' Support and Training Training programmes conducted by the allied health professional staff for families and caregivers aimed at enhancing family relationships and providing them the skills to better manage their children. Parents also attended several family events (outings, parties and camps) organised for them. In the caregiver's satisfaction survey feedback collected in April 2010, majority of the caregivers gave high ratings on the services provided. Community Partnership To build up our community capital, volunteers and professionals were recruited to support in conducting creative and stimulating programmes for the clients. MINDSville has an active pool of corporate and long serving individual volunteers who would come in regularly to assist in our programmes. Throughout the year, many activities such as outings and community mobility programmes were also conducted with the help of the volunteers including MINDS MYG volunteers. Two memorable and meaningful events organised by Temasek Holdings together with Special Olympics, and Standard Chartered Bank saw mass participation of all the residents and staff. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 23
Staff Training and Development Staff were identified for specific and targeted local and overseas courses, conferences and seminars to equip them with updated knowledge on global best practices. Allied health professionals were encouraged to embark on research relevant to their area of work and to present their findings. Several of them will be presenting papers at the AFID Conference in August 2011. Training roadmaps are in place for staff to attend relevant training related to their professional development. Two consultant trainers, Mr Tony Harman from University of Sydney and Dr Scott Modell from California State University Sacramento were engaged to provide in-house training in behavioral management techniques and active support. These critical skills equipped staff to work more effectively with the clients especially those with challenging behaviours. Three foreign nursing aides passed their Licensure Exams with the Singapore Nursing Board Licensure Exam, and were promoted to assistant nurses. The skills and qualification upgrade enabled them to take on more nursing responsibilities. FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN To prepare and sustain the Group Home residents in open employment through assessments, regular feedbacks with employing agencies and regular dialogue sessions. To rework the admission criteria for the Community Group Home so as to reach out to more clients (i.e. clients in EDCs or in open employment) who are in need of this service. To conduct a caregivers satisfaction survey so as to solicit caregivers feedbacks and concerns which can be used to improve our services To conduct at least two caregivers events in the year, with the aim to provide support for caregivers and to enhance family relationships. To look into financial subsidies for caregivers who are unable to pay for their children s maintenance fees. To identify suitable training courses for the caregivers and actively encourage participation. To monitor staff training in accordance with their training roadmap To identify foreign nursing aides for the ITE Skills Certificate in Health Care (Home Care) to upgrade their skills and to retain them longer in employment. To identify foreign nursing aides for the Singapore Nursing Board Licensure Exams so that they can take on the positions of state-enrolled nurses and help alleviate the shortages of registered nurses for the residential sectors. TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT CENTRES (TDCs) Clients Muster and Staff Strength as at 31 March 2011 Programme Clients Staff Ang Mo Kio TDC 54 19 (ATDC) Clementi TDC (CTDC) 58 15 Napiri TDC (NTDC) 54 13 Total 166 47 MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Outcome Management The 3 TDCs successfully achieved the targets set in the areas of ADL and CLS training. The TDCs would be working towards the higher targets proposed by NCSS. Curriculum / Activities Development The TDCs allied health professionals developed a caregiver questionnaire that was administered during the TDC annual parents dialogue sessions. The questionnaire was designed to identify training, health and behavioural issues that clients have at home not known to the training officers, and also ensure standardized documentation across all TDCs. Through the findings, training officers could set goals and plan more meaningful and efficient interventions for the clients and their caregivers. On 26 February 2011, CTDC organised an educational trip to Pengerang, Johor Bahru to reinforce the ADL and CLS skills in a different environment, away from their caregivers. It was the first trip out of Singapore for the 15 selected clients. Health & Wellness/ Medicare Services In April 2010, 13 TDC clients participated in the free eye screening by SNEC. Visual acuity assessment, ophthalmoscopy and retinoscopy were successfully conducted for all the clients. Between January to March and October to November 2010, a total of 7 TDC clients were involved in the free dental screening by NUH. Most of the clients were co-operative and allowed the dental students from the NUS School of Dentistry to carry out the procedures. In March 2011, 97 TDC clients participated in a health screening exercise by SATA organised by MINDS Medicare. Caregivers of some of the clients met up with volunteer doctors to discuss the necessary follow-up after the screening exercise. Regular physiotherapy programmes conducted at the TDCs include exercise therapy, gait training, water activities, weight management, PAT and sports training. The TDCs also actively 24 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
behaviour at home. Support was given to the families during the clients follow-up with psychiatrist on psychopharmacological interventions. Community Involvement Programmes The TDCs were actively involved in many projects and activities with mainstream schools as well as corporate organisations. Some of these groups: Energy Market Company, Standard Chartered Bank, Church of Christ the King (SCC Zone 100), Young Men s Christian Association, United World College, Jurong Junior College (Interact Club) and St Joseph Institute International School, volunteered regularly and engaged in the clients recreational activities and community mobility programmes. Programmes with such collaborations enhanced the clients social interaction, motivation and self-esteem, especially when parental involvements were included. participated in sports events organised by MINDS and external agencies. The clients bagged medals and awards in the Special Olympics Track & Field event, SDSC Track & Field Championship and MINDS Sports 2010. Attachment and Placement into the Employment Development Centres (EDCs) The TDCs constantly identified and trained clients with the potential and interests to receive pre-vocational skills training so that they could progress to the EDCs. 2 ATDC clients passed their attachment programme at WEDC and were transferred there in February 2011. Case Management System To ensure quality service delivery, case review meetings were held monthly, with the head of centre, training offices and allied health professionals. During the meetings, intervention plans and outcomes were discussed to monitor the progress of our clients. Programme with Families After the launch of the Caregivers Support Group TDC Chapter in 2009, the Social Workers organized several workshops to promote self-care and foster bonding and support between caregivers across all 3 TDCs. 22 caregivers participated in the Caregivers Carefree Day which included a series of farm tours and 8 parents attended the Caregivers First workshop which included an art and dance therapy session. A camp titled A Fun-filled Day for Siblings and Students was organised by MINDS social workers on 5 June 2010 for siblings of clients between the age of 7 to 12. 4 TDC young siblings participated along with siblings from other MINDS schools and centres. The theme I Am Special focused on encouraging siblings to see themselves as special individuals with their own strengths and aspirations. The first segment consisted of exciting games for the siblings as well as reflections and sharing session. The parents and TDC clients then joined in the second segment, which included a parents discussion session, an art and craft session between students and siblings, and a family telematch. The day concluded with a dinner and prize-giving ceremony, with siblings and families going home with prizes and goodies! Staff Development and Training The TDCs commitment to providing quality training programmes to staff throughout the year. Key courses attended by staff include: Diploma in Disability Studies Basic Approaches to the Management & Training of Adults with ASD Positive Behaviour Support Active Support Strategies in Managing Challenging Behaviour The Spark of Life Approach Series The 1st Asia Pacific Conference & Meeting on Mental Health MINDS School Curriculum Briefing WSQ Advance Certificate in Community and Social Service Standard First Aid Course FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN To conduct caregivers satisfaction survey so as to solicit caregivers feedback and concerns which can be used to improve our services To conduct at least two caregivers events in the year, with the aim to provide support for caregivers and to enhance family relationships To identify suitable training courses for caregivers and to encourage active participation To work with NCSS on the site selection, funding, and preparation work to set up the 4th TDC To adopt a person-centered approach to help improve or at least maintain the clients functional levels and promote good quality of life To recruit volunteers and professionals to form an active support base to conduct creative and stimulating activities and programmes To collaborate with CDU and tap on their resources for staff training and development needs Plan staff trainings according to their learning and development roadmap. The psychologist worked closely with the families to identify clients needs, provide recommendations on behavioural management and follow through on implementing strategies to address challenging MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 25
ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS (AHP) SERVICES Chairman Chief Executive Officer Director, Allied Health Professionals Services Director, Human Resources & Admin Mr Augustin Lee Mr Keh Eng Song Ms Koh Gee May Mrs Jeannie Ho The AHP Hub s vision is to be a Centre of Competence in Intellectual Disability with the ability to influence and lead national policy changes on issues pertaining to intellectual disabilities and advise how the disability sector can integrate with other sectors such as healthcare and education to advance the holistic development of persons with intellectual disabilities. AHPs employed within the sectors: Social Workers Psychologists Occupational Physio-therapists Speech Therapists Therapists Schools 8 8 4 4 5 EDCs 6 6 3 - - Residential & TDCs 5 3 2 2 - Total: 56 19 17 9 6 5 MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Monthly Multidisciplinary Hub Meetings In order to cultivate and sustain a workplace that will attract and retain AHPs, MINDS set up a virtual hub for these professionals in 2008 to sustain team morale, support career development and actively build individual professional capabilities. From its inception, monthly multidisciplinary hub meetings were held for AHPs from all MINDS sectors. These half-day sessions served as a platform for discussions about professional concerns, consensus seeking for enhancing ways of working, identification of gaps in service provision and ideas generation for programme development. Meanwhile, intra-disciplinary meetings (by profession) facilitated by voluntary co-ordinators for each discipline group continued to meet regularly. Both the hub and intra-disciplinary meetings have strengthened teamwork, professional sharing and peer affirmation. Training, Research and Clinical Supervision All AHPs received at least 40 hours of training per year and many also attended overseas training and presented papers at international conferences. Several papers were selected for presentation at the AFID conference in Jeju, Korea in August 2011. A research paper by 2 Speech Therapists Sharing of a journey towards developing and implementing a common signing approach within an organisation for persons with intellectual disabilities in Singapore was accepted for oral presentation at the 2011 Speech Pathology Australia National Conference held in Darwin, Australia in June 2011. The AHPs also worked closely with academics and related professionals in research projects pertaining to ageing, communication, and sexuality issues in persons with intellectual disabilities. In order to grow AHP capabilities, several external consultancy services were used to provide clinical supervision and case consultation for the psychologists and social workers. Dr Hoili Lim (Senior Consultant Psychologist, Adam Road Medical Centre) provided clinical supervision for all the psychologists. The Students Care Service s principal social workers, Mrs Chuah Yin May and Mrs Wong Cher Meng, provided individual and group case consultation sessions for all social workers. Participating AHPs found these consultations beneficial. Nonetheless, one of the hub s priorities is also to consciously expand and strengthen in-house capacity for case consultation and clinical supervision where these services can be provided by the more senior and experienced AHPs within MINDS. Career Structure and Professional Development There is growing recognition that it is no longer enough that the AHPs role be confined to providing clinical interventions and support just within the schools and centres. The AHPs specialist knowledge and skills are important components for the formulation of strategic directions for MINDS future services and the AHPs must play an active role, not merely a supporting one. In driving services 26 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
planning or representing clients interest when coordinating with other service providers, the quality of professional support from our AHPs will be needed. Developing such deep competencies requires an environment with the right structures and incentives where the AHPs could flourish. The timely introduction of the AHP Bill also serves as an impetus to upgrade MINDS professional standards, put in place a peer review system and case range exposure so as to meet the requirements of an Approved Centre. Career Pathway and Professional Leadership Appointments A career development pathway was implemented so that young AHPs can look forward to a progression within MINDS. To ensure sufficient focus on the AHPs development, two professional leadership appointments (PLAs) were created from the senior level AHPs who had demonstrated professional leadership potential. They are the Head of Discipline and Team Leaders. Together with Chairman and Director of AHP Services, these appointment holders are entrusted to think strategically; and to anticipate, embrace, and lead changes. These positions may also have operational or resource management responsibility of small discipline teams. As of 1 January 2011, 6 PLA holders across the 5 AHP disciplines were appointed. The PLA holder s responsibilities also include disciplinewide strategic planning which seize opportunities and trends in the industry or profession to develop new strategies, policies, processes, and solutions that will create value for the organisation and clients. They will develop and monitor workplans aligned to MINDS strategic direction; conduct intra- and inter-disciplinary research and projects to identify service gaps, and recommend relevant policy and service development changes. Job Rotation/Posting Job rotation and posting will enrich the AHPs professional experience and expose them to greater opportunity to apply different intervention skills and techniques with different clientele groups. For disciplines covered by the new AHP Bill, such rotation is also a requirement. This will introduce variation to their work repertoire, increase job satisfaction, and decrease feeling of burnout, fatigue, boredom and apathy. Rotation and posting to different MINDS schools and adult centres will also provide case range exposure across age groups such as paediatrics, adults, and geriatrics. This can be a motivating factor for those AHPs who want to work with greater breadth of cases and enhance professional satisfaction, retention, and leadership development. The duration of each posting would generally increase with seniority, but will be subject to exigencies of service. Where feasible, the guiding principle in the rotation would be to ensure that all AHPs have the opportunity to be exposed to all MINDS sectors. FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN To provide and organize the necessary networks internally and externally which can enhance the professional standards of the AHPs through clinical supervision, case consultation, career coaching, mentoring and team building. To develop professional development plans and training roadmaps for the various AHP disciplines and the SOP for job posting/rotation. To contribute AHP expertise for programmes and service development through the AHP study teams on various subject matters related to intellectual disability. To grow the practitioner research culture in MINDS through the development of multidisciplinary proposals for conference papers and scientific journal publications. To develop public education materials and give public talks to raise awareness on intellectual disability, educate caregivers, public, and stakeholders etc. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 27
FINANCE AND INVESTMENT COMMITTEE (FIC) Seated from left to right: Mr Keh Eng Song, Mr Kenneth Chua, Ms Lai Aun Leng Standing from left to right: Mr Boo Chong Han, Mr Cheo Hock Chin, Mr Ong Wee Gee, Mr Justin Lim Chairman Members Chief Executive Officer Finance Director Mr Kenneth Chua Mr Ong Wee Gee Mr Justin Lim Mr Boo Chong Han Mr Cheo Hock Chin Mr Keh Eng Song Ms Lai Aun Leng MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Electronic Payment System The manual cheque system was successfully migrated to an electronic payment system (the DBS Integrated Direct Electronic Access Link), to enhance the efficiency of the payment process in MINDS. The new web-based system provides 24/7 access to MINDS cash position, raises financial responsiveness to clients needs, frees up manpower to other priority areas in MINDS and reduces paper usage. Rigorous security features are in place to ensure the integrity of the transactions. Investments In treasury management, FIC aims to maximise returns on investments within acceptable risk levels. The investment planning approach is based on asset allocation, and diversification of investments to minimise risk. Investments are placed in high grade bonds and fixed deposits with reputable financial institutions. Within these parameters, the average rate of return on our surplus funds improved over the previous year, and no losses were sustained. Electronic Purchasing Software Module Enhancement The e-purchasing system was refined to improve documentation standards, transparency and accountability at all levels. The FIC will continue to promote sound governance among operational staff in MINDS. 28 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
Capital Management FIC oversaw the budgeting processes in MINDS. The annual budget for 2010 was discussed, endorsed and adopted by EXCO. In spite of the challenges of rising employment costs and inflation, spending had been prudent. FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN Continuous Improvement of Financial Processes The FIC is committed to raise the efficiency and effectiveness of Finance operations in MINDS. Wherever possible, system checks are incorporated into existing accounting or payment systems to reduce incidence of human errors or oversight. Electronic Banking Other functionalities within the electronic payment system IDEAL will be explored to further automate and simplify workflow and processes. Examples of new functionalities for consideration include Telegraphic transfers, MEPS (MAS Electronic Payment System), Giro collection, payroll, and payment processes for trainee allowances. Budget FIC will continue to ensure responsible budgeting, that sufficient capital is maintained to meet liabilities and fund activities, and regular budget reviews and reminders to staff to uphold their positions of trust in the conservation and expenditure of funds. Upgrade Accounting System MINDS external reports are mandated by the regulatory bodies and the local Financial Reporting Standards. In view of the upcoming issue of the Charity Accounting Standards by Accounting Standards Committee, the current accounting system will be configured and codified for compliance with the new reporting requirements. FIC would explore providing adequate project and job costing through the accounting system to manage the social enterprise contracts. Finance Manual Review Financial policies will continue to be reviewed and refined. A rigorous approval process for these reviews would be put in place to ensure compliance with financial and operating procedures and minimise the possibility of fraud. Investments In light of market volatility (eg. the civil war and political unrest in the Middle East that caused oil prices to escalate, and Japan s disasters), risk appetite would continue to be conservative, with emphasis on capital preservation, stable returns and modest growth potential on portfolios. Market developments would be closely monitored and adjustments made on portfolios accordingly. Compliance with Revised Code of Governance and other Statutory Regulations Both the refined Code of Governance for Charities and IPCs and the amendments to the Charities Act were issued in 2011. In the spirit of upholding donor confidence in MINDS, FIC will continue to observe the regulations and continually improve corporate governance within MINDS. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 29
AUDIT COMMITTEE From Left to right: Mr Lee Ju Song, Mr Jason Lee, Mr Lim Jun Han, and Mr Christopher Jap Not in picture: Ms Ivy Wong Chairman Members Mr Lim Jun Han Mr Lee Ju Song Mr Jason Lee Ms Ivy Wong Internal Auditor Mr Christopher Jap MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS The Audit Committee met 7 times during the financial year to review the Internal Auditor s findings, management s responses to those findings, and make recommendations where appropriate to improve controls. The Committee also met up with the external auditors to discuss their findings for last year and their audit schedule for the current year. The audit of investments and fixed deposits were added to the list of regular audits of payroll, asset sighting, muster reports, etc. The Internal Auditor completed a review of the purchase requisition procedures and made recommendations for improving the purchasing standard operating procedure. He also carried out ad hoc reviews on the Human Resource Department s policies and manual on IT, payroll, and performance management procedures. The Internal Audit Charter was drawn up defining the roles and functions of MINDS Internal Auditor. This was endorsed by the Executive Committee in March 2011. A briefing on risk management and internal controls was conducted for management staff, heads and principals. FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN The Audit Workplan for FY2011/12 will focus on the procurement and revenue systems. The Internal Auditor will continue to conduct briefing sessions for HODs over his audit findings. 30 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
HUMAN RESOURCE COMMITTEE Standing from left to right: Mrs Jeannie Ho, Mr Keh Eng Song, Mr Manojit Sen, Mr Mohan Dass, Mrs Doreen Yap, Mr Jeffrey Tan Chairman Members Chief Executive Officer Director, HR & Admin Mr Manojit Sen Mr Jeffrey Tan Mr Mohan Dass Ms Doreen Yap Mr Keh Eng Song Mrs Jeannie Ho Human Resource Key Performance Indicators as at 31 March 2011 Headcount: 584 Benchmarks / KPIs Achievements Explanation of Key Performance Indicators 1 Turnover: 13% Turnover decrease from 14% to 13%. <15% per annum 2 Training: Average of 40 hours per staff and at least 2% of payroll 73 hours 2.26% of payroll Average number of training hours increased from 65 to 73, and training expenditure increased marginally from 2% to 2.26%. 3 Absenteeism: Average of 5 days MCs per staff Average of 4.7 days per staff Average MC rate reduced marginally from 5.09 to 4.7 days. 4 Employee Satisfaction indicator 79% This has gone up by 8% compared to the survey done in 2007 where we achieved 71%. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 31
MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Talent Management The following MINDS Talent Management Framework and Manual was developed and implemented: i. Recruitment and Selection The policies were updated to ensure: 1. Candidates with the passion to work in a social service sector are identified 2. Continuity of services through various strategies of recruitment 3. Corporate governance guidelines and internal controls are in place and proper accountability for manpower budgets ii. Orientation Two orientation sessions were organised instead of one. The orientation programme encompasses: 1. Formal Orientation - MINDS Strategic directions, challenges, the differences between working in the Social Service Sector vs the Commercial Sector, HR policies and processes are communicated. 2. Centre based orientation where Job Scopes, specific school/ centre standard operating procedures and career development opportunities are explained. 3. Informal on-boarding programmes such as buddy or mentoring scheme, clinical or structured supervision are provided. iii. Learning & Development for Career Progression As a world-class service provider, having a professionally competent and qualified workforce is essential to support the standard of service delivery. The Learning & Development strategy aligns with MINDS future needs and plans and promotes retention and talent management. A Comprehensive Learning & Development Strategic Framework, Training roadmap and revision of MINDS Scholarship Scheme were implemented. iv. Performance Management The Performance Management procedures were updated to simplify the administrative processes for ranking. The e-appraisal system was also customised to link training needs to annual targets set by the operating units. v. Recognition & Retention The Bi-Annual Outstanding Teacher/Training Officer/Care Staff Awards scheme was revamped and expanded to identify passionate and creative staff who had significantly contributed to the development of the clients and the organisation. In line with NCSS recommendations, Social Workers salaries were revised to enhance retention. Speech Therapists salaries were also revised which enhanced the attractiveness of MINDS. New positions of Operations Assistants and Project Officers were created to cater to the Social Enterprises operations and needs, thus freeing Training Officers to focus on clients training, behaviour management and interventions. vi. Succession Planning The systematic and intentional annual exercise of identifying potential successors for the next level of job responsibility had been implemented. Two teaching staff were seconded to the adult sector, one as a supervisor for CTDC, and the other as a senior Training Officer for WEDC. HR Department Manual The HR Department Manual was revamped and completed covering: Payroll Compensation & Benefits Talent Management End of Service Management of Discipline, Termination, Dismissal, Inquiry Procedures and Grievances Enhancing Staff Long-Term Healthcare With the change of Hospitalization and Surgical Insurer, eligible staff were encouraged to enhance their Medishield plan for life-time coverage. The co-payment for hospitalization was also removed. FY2011/12 WORKPLAN 1. Review Manpower Norms, Costs and Wage Structure 2. Review and update HODs JDs to more accurately reflect their role enlargement over the years and hence the need for greater empowerment. 3. Review and update JDs for all other positions together with respective HODs again to reflect more accurately if there had been job enlargements that are not reflected in the current JDs. 4. Review and update appraisal forms to align expectations with job requirements. 5. Succession Planning to implement the next phase of competency development and grooming. 6. Review and update Staff Manual 32 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
IT COMMITTEE Seated from left to right: Ms Tan Soo Fang, Ms Chia Siew Tong Standing from left to right: Mr Keh Eng Song, Mr Manikandan Palanivel, Mr Chua Koon Teck, Mr David Tio, Mr Henry Asikin Cheung, Mr Ong Wee Gee, Mr Ng Boon Hong, Mr Gerard Teotonio Lima Vaz Not in picture: Mr Tan Yuh Woei, Mr Wilson Tan Chairman Mr Ong Wee Gee IT Engineer Mr Ng Boon Hong Members Chief Executive Officer IT Administrator Mr David Tio Mr Chua Koon Teck Mr Tan Yuh Woei Mr Wilson Tan Mr Henry Asikin Cheung Mr Keh Eng Song Ms Chia Siew Tong Senior Teacher - FGS Acting Head - Occupational Therapist Curriculum Developer Senior Training Officer Mr Gerard Teotonio Lima Vaz Mr Manikandan Palanivel Ms Tan Soo Fang Mr Hsu Hsia Yang MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS MINDS Website MINDS website went through a revamp and was re-launched in January 2011. eclient Database System The eclient Database system was enhanced to improve efficiency of the system and to integrate the Schools and Homes to this common platform so that clients information can be shared and utilized amongst all the programmes within MINDS. New modules like Fees & Subsidy, Case Management and CDU Assessment will also be added. Volunteer Management System The volunteer management system is in the User Acceptance Testing phase. The system will be used to record volunteers information including their years of service and contribution to MINDS. IT Curriculum The IT Curriculum was rolled out to all the schools to: Introduce the various ICT tools and equipments, and different types of computers and peripherals in everyday life Help pupils acquire basic skills in using the computer, peripheral and multi-media Provide hands-on experience to pupils in simple documentation, simple desktop publishing, basic digital audio and image processing, and internet surfing Teach pupils the proper, safe, responsible and ethical use of ICT tools Assistive Technology Singapore Polytechnic completed and handed over the Speech-to- Text project to MINDS. FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN Complete eclient Database System enhancements and additional modules Roll out Volunteer Management System Roll out IT curriculum in adult services Enhance IT infrastructure to improve system performance MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 33
VOLUNTEER AND DONOR MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Standing from left to right: Mr Keh Eng Song, Mr Daniel Tan, Mr Chng Ho Kiat, Mr William Teo, Mrs Rosaline Chee Chairman Members Chief Executive Officer Manager, Volunteer and Donor Management Mr Chng Ho Kiat Mr Willian Teo Mr Daniel Tan Ms May Tan Ms Li Xinyi Mr Keh Eng Song Mrs Rosaline Chee MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Community support provides a critical resource for MINDS services. We record our deep appreciation for the valuable time, talent and contributions of our volunteers and donors. From celebrities and corporate supporters to individual and school volunteers, many have taken time off busy schedules to give back to society. We wish to highlight some of these. prints on a canvas banner as a sign of commitment to always inspire and encourage children, that they are not alone and that there are people who genuinely care for them and are willing to lend a helping hand. The banner now adorns one of the walls in the school s courtyard. JJ Lin Away from bright stage lights and showbiz glamour, JJ Lin used his fame to work for MINDS Towner Gardens School (TGS). On Valentine s Day, 14 February 2011, JJ Lin made a special visit with Kiehl s, his supporting partner in promotions, to TGS to spread some love and cheer. During the visit, JJ Lin took part in a cooking class and guided the students as they whipped up a simple meal. He also led the students in a sing-along session during a music class. The visit culminated in a Wall Mural activity, involving JJ Lin, Michelle Chew, Brand Manager-Kiehl s, Keh Eng Song, MINDS CEO, and some pupils from TGS, where they placed their hand- 34 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
Saradha Anantharaman Ms Saradha Anantharaman, a 19-year-old who graduated from National Junior College in 2009 decided to use her talent in Indian classical dance to raise funds for MINDS. Through her one-night recital at Jubilee Hall at Raffles Hotel on 31 July 2010, she raised $29,000 for MINDS. During the eight-month break following her A-level examinations in 2009, Ms Saradha wanted to brush up on her skills in Indian classical dance and to continue the community service projects that she was involved in before. That was when the idea of a solo dance performance to raise funds was born and MINDS was the chosen beneficiary. The funds raised will go towards supporting MINDS public education programme. Ms Saradha is now studying at National University of Singapore s Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. Our MINDS Taiko Drummers wowed delegates of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group HR Regional Conference on 16 May 2010 to a standing ovation for their performance at the conference s closing ceremony. The Taiko Drummers again impressed the hotel s guests at the Pool Opening Ceremony on 4 June 2010, under a starlit sky and against a panoramic view of the city s night skyline as the backdrop, at the hotel s outdoor pool. Staff from Mandarin Oriental Singapore continued to support MINDS Social Enterprises by buying a total of 273 tile coasters from MINDS Craft, amounting to $4,190 to give away as gifts to family, friends and fellow colleagues. Some of these were used as corporate gifts. The rest were used to create a Charity Wall displaying messages of their support of MINDS. The Charity Wall is up but the support continues. To date, they are still buying more art pieces for the wall. HOTEL PARTNERSHIPS Shangri-La Singapore Partnership with Shangri-La Singapore entered its third year with new collaborations and programmes. The initial work exposure programme in 2010 for three pupils from MINDS Towner Gardens School (TGS) has now progressed to a regular work attachment in the Housekeeping and Banquet Operations for seven pupils. Four of whom sweep and mop seven stories of hotel room corridors and the rest fold the hotel s napkins. This partnership has been progressing well and by 3 March 2011, the hotel has also hired 2 trainees from Woodlands EDC in the Housekeeping Department and 1 trainee from Idea EDC in the Banquet Department into their workforce Weekly culinary classes are still on-going with very positive feedback from the teacher in charge. The teacher noted those pupils food preparation, cooking and utensils handling skills have greatly improved. The pupils also appear more confident and are interacting well with the hotel chefs. In August 2010, a first ever Healthy Cooking Competition was held and the hotel sponsored dining vouchers as the top three prizes. On 21 October 2010, Shangri-La Singapore presented MINDS Ang Mo Kio TDC with two brand new AIBI Magnetic Steppers to support the centre s physiotherapy programmes. The money was raised through their Opera Rocks fundraiser. Mandarin Oriental Singapore Mandarin Oriental Singapore started volunteering for MINDS in 2009 when some hotel chefs conducted a culinary demonstration to a group of Junior and Senior students during one of their house craft sessions. Hilton Singapore Hotel In the spirit of giving, on 14 December 2010, Hilton Singapore treated a group of clients from MINDS Clementi TDC (CTDC) to High Tea in celebration of Christmas. In addition to a magic show, Santa s appearance, lucky draw and games, each client was given a polo tee shirt and a pair of bermudas in a gift set to bring home. The celebration that day was special because it was the first time that the clients were taken to hotel for a Christmas meal and celebration. The hotel s General Manger, Mr Alain Mahillon presented CTDC with a food hamper and cheque donation of $2,247, which will be used to fund clients activities at the centre. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 35
CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS The year in review saw some new partnerships formed while current partnerships with corporate companies continued to grow. Motorola Our long-time corporate supporter Motorola organised the following activities in the year. On 21 June 2010, Motorola sponsored a Duck Tour for residents of Children s Wing and their families a sea and land adventure atop a remodelled WWII amphibious Vietnamese warcraft. The children and their families spent a wonderful day of splashing fun together and were thankful for Motorola s support. 6 August was Motorola s Global Day of Service in 2010. It is a community service day set aside at all Motorola s offices worldwide. In Singapore, Motorola continued to support MINDS. A team of volunteers spent a day at CTDC to install new cabinets and shelves to build a resource centre. In addition, they also painted a wall mural in their Physiotherapy Room. CTDC thanked the team who responded, It is we who should thank you for the opportunity. Everyone was so kind and we felt so at home. I must say that we had a great time at your centre everyone left your centre with a great sense of satisfaction. That same day, MINDS Headquarters also hosted a visit for Ms Eileen Sweeney, Senior Director of Motorola Mobility Foundation and Community Relations at SIA-MINDS Employment Development Centre. She was kept updated of all the projects and activities that MINDS has been collaborating with Motorola. During the annual AmCham Community Day, where Motorola is an avid supporter, MINDS MYG participated this year with a combined Sports Day, held at Raffles Junior College on 6 November 2010, with expenses sponsored by Motorola. The event was a huge success with over 300 beneficiaries and volunteers involved. We thank Motorola for their generosity in making this event possible. Other events organised by Motorola in support of MINDS include their annual Christmas Charity Sale on 11 November 2010; purchase of MINDS crafts for their corporate special event in May 2010; and celebration of Earth Day on 21 April 2011, where sale of MINDS crafts was held for staff at their premises. Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) On 15 May 2010, 17 volunteers from SCB sponsored 16 staff and 18 children on a ride on the Singapore Flyer. The children were completely in awe of the sights from the world s tallest observation wheel. They squealed in delight as they identified and named all the famous landmarks they could see the Merlion and Changi Airport for example. Ms Rose Kwek, Head of Children s Wing recalled the event, Yes, I had tears in my eyes when I saw one of the kids with autism disorder smiled after the ride on the Singapore Flyer. I was also very moved when one of the volunteers made a photo album, bought a cartoon DVD, and mailed them to the kids after the event. I m so glad to have the privilege of sharing those special moments with the children and volunteers. The group of philanthropists who started giving groceries and red packets to poor families in 2009, through volunteers from SCB, continued this exercise again in 2010/11. From the two distributions on 4 September 2010 and 15 January 2011 respectively, the total donations to MINDS were valued at $95,000. We wish to express our heartfelt thanks to the anonymous philanthropists for their generosity and blessings to the needy families at MINDS. SCB is a company that enjoys a strong CSR reputation in view of its commitment to organise community activities, not just for MINDS but for other VWOs as well. SCB organised a carnival for Metta Welfare Association on 20 March 2011 and extended invitation to MINDS clients to join the fair, by sponsoring transport and $20 coupon for each participant from MINDS. MINDS MYG supported the event with a total of 49 clients, their family members and volunteers. Everyone enjoyed the carnival. 100 over employees from SCB also celebrated International Day of Disabled Persons at SIA-MINDS Employment Development Centre (SMEDC) on 3 December 2010, with 400 over clients and staff. This was organised in response to the bank s interest to organise a big-scale event at year end. Ms Jolene Chen, Group Head of Resourcing, Learning & Talent Development was present at the event. She plays a key role in facilitating the support of MINDS from the bank these past many years. A token of appreciation was presented to Ms Chen. 36 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
Hong Kong & Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) 18 of MINDS needy families benefited much from HSBC s Corporate Responsibility Challenge 2010 where volunteers from the bank set out to create a more conducive study environment for needy children in their homes, with the aim of supporting their learning and development. Works carried out included spring cleaning, painting and installation of new furniture and these were carried out from 9 to 11 June 2010. The makeovers brought much delight to all the 18 chosen families. For one family, a sister of a MINDS pupil, who previously used the ironing board to do her homework now has a proper table. Singapore Management University (SMU) Student group volunteers have continued to pour into the volunteer pool at MINDS and the largest group was from SMU with 46 volunteers who supported the Inter-EDC Challenge Cup on 2 October 2010. This was an opportunity for the students to demonstrate their leadership skills and a journey of self discovery through service learning. They are thankful to MINDS for the opportunity. Siemens Singapore SMEDC aimed to set a record of making Singapore s longest friendship band but did not have the budget to buy the necessary materials. When Siemens was sought to help support the event, some staff even offered to pay out of their own pockets. This was the dedication of their staff and in this collaborative effort, MINDS Friendship Band measuring 462m made it to the Singapore Book of Records, beating the previous national record of 221m. This long and colourful friendship band was turned into an art piece to be sold by MINDS Craft. Shineon! School on Stage 20 Pupils from MINDS Woodlands Gardens School and 20 models from Shineon! School on Stage walked the catwalk for Fashion MINDS in Wisma Atria on Orchard Road on 20 November 2010. Children with intellectual disability sashaying designer wears alongside professional models on the runway, is a unique collaboration that showcases the talents of children in a world where no discrimination divides them. Fashion MINDS truly raised the bar for local charity efforts in a fashionable and visibly powerful way. We thank Shineon! School on Stage for their support this past 3 years. Others Many volunteers go the extra mile to help others. A noteworthy of these include Mr Joel Tan, who raised funds through his family and friends to send an ATDC client s parent for a knee surgery, so that he can continue to work as a cleaner to provide for his wife and two intellectually disabled sons. Mr Tan also bought spectacles for 8 needy pupils from MINDS Lee Kong Chian Gardens Schools, fixed a drinking tap for a CTDC client s home, and arranged for installation of grab bars for ageing clients at CTDC. We wish to thank Mr Tan for his generosity. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 37
MINDS VOLUNTEER AWARDS Every year, MINDS Volunteer Awards are given away to recognise excellence in volunteers contribution. A new category of award was introduced in 2010, the MINDS Distinguished Service Award Gold. Recipients in 2010 were as follows: MINDS Distinguished Service Award Platinum (Individual) Mrs Jayalekshmi Mohideen MINDS Distinguished Service Award Gold (Individual) Mr Lee Chak Meng Mr Goh Siang Khin Ms Goh Siam Imm MINDS Distinguished Service Award Gold (Corporate) Standard Chartered Bank United World College of Southeast Asia MINDS Distinguished Service Award (Individual) Mr Chng Jong Ling Mr Cheo Hock Chin MINDS Distinguished Service Award (Corporate) KPMG Church of Christ The King, SCC Zone 100 Young Men s Christian Association of Singapore (YMCA) MINDS GoodAsNew Charity Shop MINDS Meritorious Award (Individual) Mr William Teo Kok Meng Mrs Maria Ong Madam Lai Poh Yen Ms Christina Tan Ms Chew Chai Luen Mr Ong Chong Tiang Mr Ernest Tan Mr Jared Foo Mr Quek Xiang Hui SCDF Bukit Batok Fire Station Prosafe Production Pte Ltd Energy Market Company Pte Ltd Cut Above Hair Saloon Three new categories of MINDS Donor Awards were introduced for the first time. They are: Friend of MINDS: Donations of at least $10, 000 per year Supporter of MINDS: Donations of at least $50,000 per year Distinguished Supporter of MINDS: Donation of at least $100,000 per year. Recipients were as follows: MINDS Donor Awards 2010 Friend Jurong Country Club Kim Eng Securities Pte Ltd Lee Cheng Peck MINDS GoodAsNew Charity Shop Republic of Singapore Navy (AFPN 6016) South West Community Development Council Union Investment Real Estate Asia Pacific Pte Ltd Yu Gyo Engineering & Trading Pte Ltd Supporter Ngee Ann Primary School Tee up Dormitory Pte Ltd Past Year s MINDS Donor Awards As it was the first time MINDS is giving awards to donors, a review of past years donors was also carried out and seven donors were chosen for recognition. Distinguished Supporter Children s Charities Association Supporter The Great Eastern Life Assurance Co. Ltd Friend KPMG Motorola Electronics Pte Ltd Resource Hardware & Trading Pte Ltd Singapore Exchange Ltd (SGX) Singapore Island Country Club (SICC) Conclusion When we reflect on the amount of effort and support that we have received in the past year from volunteers and donors, we are thankful to each of them for their dedication and contribution. We look forward to years of continued friendship and hope that more will step forward to join us in our journey. FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN 1. Volunteer s Handbook - To provide volunteers with important information regarding volunteering policies and procedures. 2. Volunteer Management System Launch - To facilitate volunteers registration through MINDS website 3. Volunteer Management System SOP - To facilitate various volunteer management functions, including volunteers registration, to ensure that procedures are administered in accordance with established policies. 38 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
BUILDING & FACILITIES COMMITTEE Standing from left to right: Mr Terence Wong, Ms Karen Er, Mr Mike Koh, Mr Howard Yap, Mr Lim Yeow Khee, Mr James Wong, Mr Philip Tong, Mr Simon Low, Mr Michael Wang Not in picture: Mr Eric Seah Chairman Member Manager, Facilities/Procurement Facilities Officer Mr Lim Yeow Khee Mr Howard Yap Mr Terence Wong Mr James Wong Head, NTDC Supervisor, SMEDC Admin/Ops Manager, FGS Admin/Ops Manager, TGS Admin/Ops Manager, LGS Admin/Ops Manager, WGS Mr Mike Koh Ms Karen Er Mr Eric Seah Mr Philip Tong Mr Michael Wang Mr Simon Low The Building & Facilities Committee (BFC) oversees MINDS portfolio of facilities and provides guidance to the four schools and the seven centres in the area of facilities management, cyclical maintenance and upgrading works. Composition The Committee comprises 2 volunteers and 8 staff members with competencies in Building Construction, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Operations and Facilities Management. The diversity of their knowledge, skills and experience allows for useful exchange of ideas and views to support the BFC objectives. MINDS facilities are maintained in good condition and regularly upgraded to meet new demands and operational efficiency. MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS The committee held five meetings during the financial year. During the period, the Committee embarked on cyclical maintenance projects for Ang Mo Kio Training & Development Centre (ATDC) and Clementi Training & Development Centre (CTDC). Cyclical maintenance is carried out at pre-determined intervals to repair, refurbish and renew equipment and facilities necessitated from wear and tear, breakdown, obsolescence and expiry of their useful life. The multi-purpose hall flooring at Towner Gardens School (TGS) was upgraded and re-floored with Eco-Green Eco-Art Design Technology Engineering Single Plank Flooring. This product is in the Green Building Product Listing certified by Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC). Numerous minor improvement works were carried out to re-configure the respective centres, providing more space to the users, enhancing the centres further and giving a fresher look. Periodic structural inspections as required by BCA were carried out by certified Professional Engineers (PE) at Lee Kong Chiang Gardens School (LGS) and SIA-MINDS Employment Development Centre (SMEDC). At MINDSville@Napiri, Fire Certificate Inspection was conducted in September 2010. SCDF inspected the whole building and have renewed the Fire Safety Fitness Certificate. FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN The work plan for 2011/12 will focus on reviewing cyclical maintenance and upgrading works at MINDS-HQ, SMEDC, MINDSville@Napiri, LGS and TGS. Major renovation work will be carried out in SMEDC and MINDS HQ to improve space utilisation and general condition of the operational areas. The Committee will also look into developing long term maintenance programmes for all the facilities and carry out awareness training for staff at all levels to build a culture of environment excellence in MINDS. Some of the activities in our work plan for FY 2011/2012 will include: SMEDC Cyclical Maintenance SMEDC and MINDS HQ Additions & Alterations and Upgrading Works (carried out concurrently with cyclical maintenance) MINDSville@Napiri Cyclical maintenance IEDC Washroom facilities at level #01, convert recreation room to AHP work areas Building and hygiene inspections Building maintenance inspections Emergency Preparedness and Fire Safety Awareness for Schools, TDCs and EDCs MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 39
PUBLIC RELATIONS, EDUCATION & COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE (PRECC) Standing from left to right: Mr Keh Eng Song, Mr Daniel Tan, Mr Boo Chong Han, Ms Doreen Yap, Ms Brenda Lee Chairman Members Chief Executive Officer Corporate Communications Executive Mr Boo Chong Han Ms Doreen Yap Mr Daniel Tan Mr Keh Eng Song Ms Brenda Lee MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS With 11 schools and centres situated island-wide, and a staff strength of 584, internal communication is critical to help all staff keep abreast of the latest happenings in MINDS. At the same time, external communication allows MINDS to inform the public about its mission and services, and enhance public acceptance of persons with intellectual disability. The Public Relations, Education and Communications Committee aims to bring people together, connect people to MINDS and thereby help to bring about a more inclusive society. MINDSPEAK MINDSpeak is a quarterly newsletter circulated to staff, caregivers, members, donors and volunteers of MINDS. In the first half of 2011, two issues of the newsletter were published and disseminated. The content informs readers of important events and activities held across MINDS different facilities island-wide, educates readers on the various aspects of intellectual disability and its management, and inspires readers through real life accounts of clients, caregivers, and staff who have overcome obstacles and achieved success in their own ways. 40 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
MINDS enews MINDS electronic staff newsletter, MINDS enews, aims to bring about timely updates on HR related matters, mini reports on the most recent MINDS events and serves as an announcement board to broadcast important information. This is an important occasional publication that brings staff of MINDS closer. Revamp of corporate website MINDS corporate website was revamped and redesigned. It now boasts a brand new look with a more user-friendly interface. The new website provides audience-centric information that is comprehensive in its coverage. It also carries videos, photographs, and useful information for volunteers, donors and caregivers. 50th Anniversary in 2012 The PRECC committee has also been tasked to plan and organise the celebrations on MINDS 50th Anniversary in 2012. The celebrations will comprise a Commemorative Book, a Dinner, an Anniversary Dinner, a Family Day Extravaganza, a Public Education Exhibition and decentralised celebrations at the centre/school level. FY2011/12 WORKPLAN Review public education resources of MINDS namely: MINDS corporate brochures Corporate video Public education exhibition banners and display materials Organise the various activities planned for MINDS 50th anniversary celebrations Enhance MINDS outreach to the broader public to raise awareness of persons with intellectual disability MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 41
MINDS CSG (Caregivers Support Group) Advisor Chairperson Mr Jeffrey Tan Mrs Mimi Tan Secretaries Ms Selena Chew Ms Jenny Low Mr Gary Ng Vice - Chairpersons Treasurer Ms Clara Ng Ms Carolina Chan Ms Janet Ng Coordinator Programme Coordinator Ms Low Poh Leng Mr Patrick Lai MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS 2010 was a busy year as each CSG chapter geared up their activities to reach out to parents. MINDS CSG@LGS The CSG chapter at Lee Kong Chian Gardens School was officially launched in June 2010, and parents started volunteering with the school by helping the teachers during travelling lessons and semester outings, and collaborating with Excelsior International School to celebrate the Inaugural Achievement Awards Ceremony on 19 November 2010. MINDS CSG@TGS A mini carnival was held at Towner Gardens School on 24 September 2010. The objective was to teach students how to use coupons to purchase foods at the carnival. Parent volunteers manage the fishball and hotdog bun stall. It was a delight for the parents to work with the teachers to carry out the objective. More significantly, the event brought a deeper bonding among the parents as they work together. MINDS CSG@FGS The chapter organised several social activities and projects throughout the year to promote bonding and support the school and organisation. They are: Starlight Night Fever in December 2010 at Toa Payoh Central Community Centre Christmas gathering Chinese New Year visiting Indo-Chinese feast gathering in April 2011 Art sessions conducted by a caregiver Parents workshops in March, April and Games day in May 2011 Social Enterprise paper bags folding project. Together with NUSVAC volunteers and caregivers, the group completed 700 paper bags for the World Down Syndrome Day MINDS CSG@TDCs The chapter spearheaded a thriftshop project at MINDSville, and organised several workshops and activities in the year to reach out to parents in the TDCs. They are: Grooming workshop for parents and caregivers - Participants learnt to dress for different occasions, body shapes and colour matching. They were also taught basic skincare, make-up and hairstyling. Caregivers went home motivated to groom and dress-up their special children and themselves. Physical activities to improve self-help skills and fitness programmes at home and in the community organised by TDC physiotherapists - This informative and enriching workshop was presented both in English and Mandarin on 21 August 2010. Participants tried the various exercise equipment, many were simple home implements. Balance and coordination activities were demonstrated to show how these can help to improve and achieve ADL (activities of daily living). Caregivers Carefree Day - In collaboration with the TDC social workers, the CSG TDCs chapter held its first outing on 1 December 2010. Themed as Caregivers Carefree Day, the event was attended by 23 caregivers from Ang Mo Kio, Clementi and Napiri TDCs. The programme consisted of a series of farm tours, followed by a hearty lunch. Set in the relaxing ambience of countryside, the outing provided a fun opportunity for caregivers to make new friends and destress. Joint Care & Self Care: Working with Therabands - In collaboration with the TDC social workers, caregivers gathered at a caregivers home for an informal tea session which started with sharing of personal stories. There was much laughter and tears as the communication took the form of English, Mandarin and Hokkien at the same time. The striking similarities of the caregivers journeys in raising a special needs child brought everyone together in one heart. When Geoff Sweeney, the therapist arrived, caregivers were ready for a work-out. Armed with a theraband each, Geoff taught a series of exercises for strengthening muscles and joints. Although the steps were simple, they were challenging. After 42 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
all the stretching and exercises, the host served a delicious tea break. It was truly a memorable afternoon. The theraband session not only empowered caregivers to take care of their health, but banded hearts to know that this amazing journey is not travelled alone. Combined MINDS CSG Events Combined activities connect caregivers on a larger scale, and promote solidarity and camaraderie. The 2 major events are: Walk to the Southern Ridges - In November 2010, 53 caregivers and 31 students ventured down the Southern Ridges in two groups together with volunteers and medics from Health Promotion Board (HPB). The walk of about 3km covered the Forest Walk, Henderson Waves - Singapore s highest pedestrian bridge, and Alexandra Arch Bridge connecting to Hort Park, where caregivers ended with lunch and fellowship. MINDS CSG 10th Anniversary Party with MINDS MYG Family Day - The combined event on 5 March 2011 at Toa Payoh Community Club, titled Under One Roof saw a turnout of nearly a 1000 clients, caregivers, volunteers and guests. Guest of Honour, Mr Conrad Campos, MINDS President, presented tokens of appreciation to nurses from the HPB and volunteer photographers, and Mr Keh Eng Song, CEO presented a plaque to Attire Foundations who performed the closing dance. The event was a smashing success because of the strong support from MINDS, the enthusiastic entertainment and fun and games that kept everyone engaged. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 43
MINDS MYG Chairperson Vice Chairpersons Secretary Treasurer Volunteer Reporting Training and Development Volunteer Administration Public Education and IT Ang Mo Kio Project Chairperson Basic Knowledge Training Group Project Chairpersons Children s Wing Project Chairperson East Point Project Chairpersons Guillemard Project Chairpersons Reach Out Project Chairperson RSPID Project Chairperson Terra Hope Project Chairpersons West End Project Chairpersons Mr Gerald Ng Mr Jared Foo Mr Ernest Tan Ms Jasmine Tan Mr Quek Xiang Hui Mr Siu Zhuo Bin Ms Sherlyn Poh Ms Phua Li Xian Ms Thng Shui Hui Mr Felix Chia Ms Evon Li Ms Ang Jian Yun Mr Eugene Nai Ms Samantha Tang Ms Wang Liangyu Ms Chen Pey Shy Ching Ting Soon Kee Sen Chee Mr Qiu Jinyao Ms Sylvia Ang Ms Samantha Ng Ms Esther Koh Ms Agnes Tan Ms Megan Yao MINDS MYG aspires to achieve social integration for persons with intellectual disability (PWID) and to enrich their lives by providing meaningful programmes and delivering quality outreach. The volunteer arm has grown substantially since its formation in 1972 and currently serves over 200 PWIDs, ranging from children to senior citizens. Beneficiaries attend regular weekend sessions at one of the 9 projects operating throughout Singapore and work closely with the educational institutions for joint outings and activities. In addition to the regular project sessions, MINDS MYG organises several major events throughout the year, including the Annual Camp for the Intellectually Disabled (ACID), Combined Sports Day and MYG Family Day. MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Community Involvement The 9 projects under MINDS MYG embarked on a concerted effort to reach out to the community through a series of community-service activities. These included sing-along sessions with the residents of Canossaville Children s Home, a month-long tie-up with the students of Nan Hua High School on environmental conservation which culminated in a beach clean-up activity, participation in the Metta School s carnival cum walkathon, and combined event planning with the Elderly Sector Network. The response from both the clients and the external organisations had been overwhelmingly positive. In particular, the clients benefited from the opportunity to interact with students and the community who were involved in the planning process as well. The community outreach activities will continue for the next work year. Inter-Project Collaborations With the strong support from MINDS and dedicated volunteers, MINDS MYG grew from 5 project groups barely 5 years ago to the current family of 9 projects plus another volunteer group from 44 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
NUS. The project groups banded together wherever possible to jointly organise festive celebrations. During the year, Guillemard, East Point and Basic Knowledge Training Group had a combined Mid-Autumn Festival celebration with their beneficiaries and family members, and several other project groups held a combined outing to the Singapore Flyer, with over 100 beneficiaries for a day out at Sentosa and the Underwater World. Collaborations with volunteer groups and organisations within and beyond MINDS MINDS MYG also continued to strengthen partnerships with the MINDS Caregivers Support Group (CSG) and external organisations such as Special Olympics Singapore, HSBC and the Elderly Sector Network (ESN). The partnerships led to more extensive sharing of best practices in the areas of volunteer management and recruitment, the organisation of special events such as a combined health and dental check-up and a highly successful and fun-filled Family Day cum CSG Anniversary Party which included hip-hop performances from MINDS Towner Gardens School and the MINDS Taiko Drums team. Continuous Learning for Volunteers Training continues to be a top priority to ensure that volunteers are equipped to provide optimum learning opportunities for the beneficiaries. Volunteers benefited from workshops conducted by Special Olympics Singapore, which led to a mini-special Olympics where beneficiaries competed in bocce and floor hockey. Ms Caroline Essame, a creative arts therapist who specialises in human development and the healing arts was also engaged to conduct a dedicated hands-on workshop for the volunteers. FY 2011/12 WORKPLAN To provide a varied range of activities and learning environments: MINDS MYG will continue with community outreach programmes and combined project activities. This year s ACID will evolve around adventure learning, with beneficiaries given the opportunity to experience camping within a supervised environment and a range of outdoor activities. Several project groups would be organising overseas trips, venturing to neighbouring countries with the clients, volunteers and caregivers. There will be partnerships with MINDS CSG, Special Olympics Singapore and other organisations to jointly-organise learning activities beyond the classroom setting. To equip volunteers with the requisite skill-sets and resources to be even more effective friends and role-models: In addition to sourcing for relevant courses for our volunteers, MINDS allied health professionals have agreed to conduct dedicated workshops for volunteers. A mentorship system will be established where the more experienced volunteers would provide guidance to newer volunteers. New volunteers would also be required to attend combined volunteer orientation programmes held quarterly. To foster strong cohesion between caregivers and volunteers through regular dialogue sessions and cohesion activities: Activities such as regular meet-the-parents sessions and annual Chinese New Year home visits are instrumental in fostering cohesion between parents and volunteers. There will be conscious efforts to further strengthen the volunteercaregiver link, and caregivers will be invited to participate in special events such as project groups anniversaries, seasonal celebrations and project-level annual camps. MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011 45
PAST YEARS OFFICE BEARERS YEAR PRESIDENT VICE-PRESIDENT HON SECRETARY HON ASST SEC HON TREASURER 1961 Mr Warren G Fox 1962 to 1964 1965 to 1966 1967 to 1969 1970 to 1976 1977 to 1982 Mr Gerald Evelyn De Cruz Mr Wong Cheong Choon Miss D K Vaithilingam Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Wong Man Kee Mr Ng Fook Kah Miss Betty Lim Mr M N Campos Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Wong Man Kee Mr Ng Fook Kah Miss Betty Lim Mr Alwyn Lim 1983 Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Wong Man Kee Mr Ng Fook Kah Mr Ong Pin Sam Mr Tan Keng Sin 1984 Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Robin Chua Ms Yong Chui Mr Ong Pin Sam Mr Alwyn Lim Foong 1985 Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Robin Chua Mr Ong Pin Sam Mr Tay Tiong Beng Mr Lim Seng Chong 1986 Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Robin Chua Mr Ong Pin Sam Mr Tan Keng Sin Mr Robin Chua 1987 Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Ong Pin Sam Mr Robin Chua Mr Tan Keng Sin Mr Tan Joon Hoe 1988 Mr Lim Ewe Huat Dr Victor Seah Mr Ong Pin Sam Miss Woo Ti Soo Mr Tan Joon Hoe 1989 Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Robin Chua Mr Ong Pin Sam Miss Woo Ti Soo Mr Tan Joon Hoe 1990 Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Robin Chua Mr Ong Pin Sam Mr Tan Keng Sin Mr Lee Ju Song 1991 Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Robin Chua Mr Ong Pin Sam Miss Woo Ti Soo Mr Tan Keng Sin 1992 Mr Lim Ewe Huat Mr Robin Chua Mr Ong Pin Sam Mr Tan Keng Sin Mr Tan Joon Hoe 1993 to Dr Tan Ser Kiat Mr Robin Chua Miss Woo Ti Soo Mr Tan Keng Sin Mr Tan Joon Hoe 1994 1995 Dr Tan Ser Kiat Mr Ong Pin Sam Mr Tan Keng Sin Mrs Margaret Goh Mr Harphal Singh 1996 Dr Tan Ser Kiat Mr Ong Pin Sam Mr Tan Keng Sin Mrs Margaret Goh Mr Jeffrey Tan 1997 to 1998 Dr Tan Ser Kiat LTC (RET) Martin Zhu Mr Tan Keng Sin Mrs Margaret Goh Mr Jeffrey Tan 1999 to 2002 2003 to 2004 2005 to 2006 2007 to 2008 2009 to 2010 Dr Tan Ser Kiat Mrs Jayalekshmi Mohideen Mrs Jayalekshmi Mohideen Mrs Jayalekshmi Mohideen Mr Conrad Campos Mr Lee Chak Meng Mr Lee Chak Meng Mr Lee Chak Meng Mr Conrad Campos Col Tay Tiong Beng Mr Kenneth Chua Mr Jeffrey Tan Mr Jeffrey Tan Ms Goh Siam Imm Mr Goh Siang Khin Mr Jeffrey Tan Ms Goh Siam Imm Mr Chng Jong Ling Mr Jeffrey Tan Mr Kenneth Chua Mr John Lee Mong Wah Mr Gabriel Lim Mr Jeffery Tan Mrs Mimi Tan Mr Ong Wee Gee 46 MINDS ANNUAL REPORT 2010 / 2011
MOVEMENT FOR THE INTELLECTUALLY DISABLED OF SINGAPORE HEADQUARTERS 800 Margaret Drive Singapore 149310 Tel: 6479 5655 Fax: 6479 0706 Website: www.minds.org.sg Email: minds@minds.org.sg SPECIAL SCHOOLS Fernvale Gardens School 7 Fernvale Road Singapore 797635 Tel: 64816 697/6315 5346 Fax: 6483 2631 Email: fgs@minds.org.sg Lee Kong Chian Gardens School 802 Margaret Drive Singapore 149311 Tel: 6473 8332 Fax: 6473 4776 Email: Igs@minds.org.sg Towner Gardens School 18 Lengkong Lima Singapore 417557 Tel: 6446 2612 Fax: 6243 7498 Email: tgs@minds.org.sg Woodlands Gardens School 30 Woodlands Ring Road #01-01 Singapore 737883 Tel: 6468 0566 / 6468 0567 Fax: 6468 2142 Email: wgs@minds.org.sg Curriculum Development Unit 7 Fernvale Road Singapore 797635 Tel: 6312 6837 RESIDENTIAL SERVICES: HOME, HOSTEL/ GROUP HOME, CHILDREN S WING EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT CENTRES Idea Employment Development Centre 29 Rosyth Road Singapore 546190 Tel: 6282 4852 Fax: 6280 5078 Email: iedc@minds.org.sg SIA-MINDS Employment Development Centre 800 Margaret Drive Singapore 149310 Tel: 6473 1148 Fax: 6473 3885 Email: smedc@minds.org.sg Woodlands Employment Development Centre 30 Woodlands Ring Road #01-02 Singapore 737883 Tel: 6366 3966 Fax: 6366 7422 Email: wedc@minds.org.sg TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT CENTRES Ang Mo Kio Training & Development Centre 134 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, Street 12, #01-1677 Singapore 560134 Tel: 6456 4174 / 6456 0570 Fax: 6453 2824 Email: atdc@minds.org.sg Clementi Training & Development Centre 304 Clementi Ave 4 #01-487 Singapore 120304 Tel: 6776 8743 / 6776 8745 Fax: 6776 8741 Email: ctdc@minds.org.sg Napiri Training & Development Centre MINDSville@Napiri 7 Lorong Napiri Singapore 547533 Tel: 6387 7662 Fax: 6387 3357 Email: ntdc@minds.org.sg MINDSville@Napiri 7 Lorong Napiri Singapore 547533 Tel: 6387 7662 Fax: 6387 3357 Email: mv@minds.org.sg
MINDS Headquarters 800 Margaret Drive, Singapore 149310 Tel: (65) 6479 5655 Fax: (65) 6479 0706 Email: minds@minds.org.sg www.minds.org.sg Registered Charity: 0045 ROS: 21 / 62 WEL UEN NO. S62SS0075C