A Decade of Heartfelt Volunteering: Celebrating VSB's 10th Anniversary and Launch of 'I am a Little Big Volunteer'
Embracing a Decade of Change: VSB's Journey to Empowerment
On a bright, bustling day at The Red Box in Singapore, the air buzzed with excitement and anticipation. It wasn't just any day – it was a celebration marking ten years of The Volunteer Switchboard (VSB), a pivotal force in Singapore's volunteering community. Lawrence Photography had the honor of capturing this landmark event, documenting each smile, handshake, and shared moment of inspiration.
The Genesis of The Volunteer Switchboard
Founded in 2013, VSB started as a ground-up movement aimed at transforming the volunteering landscape in Singapore. It was more than an organization; it was a vision to create a more connected, compassionate community. Over the years, VSB has grown, influencing countless lives through its innovative approach to volunteerism.
Li Woon: The Heart Behind VSB
At the core of VSB's impactful journey is its founder and CEO, Li Woon. A former banking professional with a parallel passion for volunteering, Li Woon's belief that "one is never too young to be kind" has shaped VSB's philosophy. Her leadership and vision have been pivotal in steering VSB through a decade of growth and change.
Unveiling 'I am a Little Big Volunteer'
Amidst the celebration of VSB's 10-year anniversary, the spotlight turned to the launch of a unique and heartwarming book series – 'I am a Little Big Volunteer'. This series, envisioned by Li Woon, encapsulates the spirit of volunteering in a format accessible and engaging for young minds.
The Inspiration Behind the Series
The idea for the series stemmed from the realization that instilling values of kindness and empathy should start early in life. These books, with their charming characters Mia and Ollie, are designed to resonate with children, teaching them about virtues like integrity, compassion, and gratitude through relatable storytelling.
Crafting Stories That Matter
Each book in the series is more than a tale; it's a lesson in character-building. The narrative weaves in the five fundamental virtues – integrity, compassion, courage, respect, and gratitude – in a manner that encourages young readers to reflect and apply these values in their daily lives.
Bringing Real-Life Heroes into the Narrative
What sets this series apart is its incorporation of real-life heroes and charities. By featuring figures like Associate Professor Teng and organizations like the Food Bank, the stories connect the fictional world with the real world, teaching children about the impact of volunteering in their community.
A Special Presence: Mr. Tan Kiat How at VSB's 10th Anniversary
The event was further dignified by the presence of Mr. Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Communications and Information & Ministry of National Development. His participation not only added a layer of gravitas but also underscored the government's support for community-focused initiatives like VSB.
The Officiation Ceremony
Mr. Tan played a pivotal role in officiating the 10th-anniversary celebration. His gesture was a powerful acknowledgment of VSB's decade-long efforts in promoting volunteerism and community service in Singapore. In his address, he commended VSB for its outstanding contribution and highlighted the importance of volunteerism in strengthening community bonds.
Capturing the Essence of the Event
As photographers, our goal at Lawrence Photography was to encapsulate the essence of this celebration. Each photograph was more than a mere snapshot; it was a story waiting to be told. From the joyous laughter of children engrossed in a book reading to the proud smiles of volunteers and organizers, every image was a testament to the power of community and giving back.
The Energy and Enthusiasm of Youth
The Red Box, a hub for youth development and volunteering, was abuzz with energy. Youths, the backbone of VSB's volunteer force, gathered to celebrate, engage, and inspire. Their enthusiasm was palpable, a reminder of the vital role the younger generation plays in shaping a kinder, more inclusive future.
A Platform for Dialogue and Learning
The event wasn't just a celebration; it was a platform for dialogue and learning. Discussions and workshops ran throughout the day, each session shedding light on different aspects of volunteering and community service. These interactions were crucial in fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the volunteering ecosystem.
The Future of Volunteering with VSB
As VSB steps into its next decade, the organization stands at a pivotal juncture. The world is evolving rapidly, and with it, the needs of communities are changing. VSB's adaptability and commitment to innovation have positioned it well to continue making a significant impact.
The Role of 'I am a Little Big Volunteer' in Shaping Tomorrow
The 'I am a Little Big Volunteer' series is more than a set of children's books; it's a tool for shaping the minds and hearts of the next generation. In a world increasingly characterized by volatility and complexity, these stories serve as beacons of hope and guides for ethical decision-making.
Expanding Reach and Impact
Looking ahead, VSB aims to expand its reach, bringing more volunteers and communities together. The organization is not just focused on increasing numbers; it's committed to deepening the impact of each volunteering experience, ensuring that every engagement is meaningful and transformative.
Join the Movement of Kindness
As we reflect on this remarkable event and the journey of The Volunteer Switchboard, we invite you to join this movement of kindness. Whether it's through picking up one of the 'I am a Little Big Volunteer' books, participating in a volunteering opportunity, or simply spreading kindness in your everyday life, each action contributes to a more empathetic, connected community.
Additional Information:
The book is now on sale at Kinokuniya bookstore.
Related Links:
https://thevolunteerswitchboard.org