On 6 December 2008, a group of more than 50 teenagers volunteered at Jamiyah Home For The Aged at Tampines Avenue 3.
The youth prepared two weeks for this single day. The youth divided themselves into five groups and each group contributed an item to the day’s program, including two games, a short sketch and two song performances. Plus, they put together goodie bags for all the elderly.
The day began at 11am at the home, with assistant director Santhi, welcoming the large group. Singaram has been dutifully serving the home for several years, and her love and patience for the elderly left a deep impression o the youth. After a short introduction, Singaram led the group on a tour around the home.
In the dining hall, about 100 elderly folk were eagerly awaiting the arrival of the youngsters, who in turn were thrilled and excited to display the fruits of their labor.
First on the cards was a game of Bingo, which the elderly all enjoyed thoroughly. They warmed up further with the next game, Musical Balloon. Many of the elderly were getting around with walking sticks, but that didn’t stop them from volunteering for the games and activities with great enthusiasm.
Next up was a short sketch, parodying the popular local sitcom Phua Chu Kang. Not surprisingly, it was a hit with the elderly folk.
At the lunch break, the youth took the initiative to serve food to the elderly. While young and old ate together, Matthew Tay, a student from Catholic Junior College, went from table to table performing magic tricks! Everyone was amazed at his sleight of hand.
The day ended on a high note with song performances that included familiar songs like ‘You Raise Me Up’, ‘Right Here Waiting’ and ‘Stand By Me’. It was heartwarming to see the elderly ladies and gentlemen swaying to the music.
PHOTOS: Serene Yap
Time flew past really quickly, and soon it was time for the youth to bid farewell. Jonathan Eio, who recently graduated from Innova Junior College, shared, “From the moment I stepped into the home, I was determined to impact the lives of the old folks positively. The smiles on their faces really gave me a deep sense of satisfaction, and I knew my time spent was worth it. I hope to come back frequently to see them again.”
