Uni-Y wins ASEAN Award

A Q U A R T E R L Y N E W S L E T T E R F O R Y M C A M E M B E R S

MCI (P) 125/06/2014 THIRD QUARTER 2014

YMCAConversation Series

Y Camp Challenge

YMCA Proms @ The Park 2014I Page 10-11

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Board of Directors• MrStephenLohSurYong,PBM President• MrChewKweeSan Vice President• DrTanSzeWee Treasurer• MrEricTengHengChew,BBM Immediate Past President• MrSamuelChanWeiMun• MrStevenChiaOonSeet• DrThomasChoongYingChuan• MsKohShawLuan• MrOoiBoonHoe• MrsMagdaleneSikSweeHiang• MrPeterSimSweeYam,BBM• MrTanEngBeng• MrBryanTanSuanTiu• MrPeterTayYewBeng• MrTeoZi-Ming• MrLeslieWongKinWah• MrAlbertLHChing Co-Opted• MrHoCheeHon Co-Opted• MrTayPuanSiong,JP,PBM Co-Opted• RevDrKowShihMing Honorary Chaplain• RevDrGrahamNg Honorary Chaplain

YMCA Advisory Council• MrSDhanabalan Chairman• MrAndrewAng,PBM• MrKhooBoonHui,PPA,PBS,PJG• MrJonathanLarsen• MrLeeLiatCheng,BBM• MrTanGeePaw,PPA,PJG• MrsMildredTan,PBM• MrTayPuanSiong,JP,PBM

Editorial TeamChiefEditor:MrFrancisChongEditorialteam:MrSamuelNg,MrLinDaoyi, MsJoniChen

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This is a publication of YMCA of Singapore,a non-profit organisation. The publication isdistributed free to its members and has nosubscriptionornewsstandprice.Nopartofthispublicationmaybeproducedinwholeorpartwithoutpriorwrittenpermission.Allinformation,datesandpricesarecorrectattimeofprinting.PleasenotethatallpricesareshowninSingaporeDollars(S$).

Cover PhotoCorporate volunteers from GMG Global Ltd befriending beneficiaries from Bishan Home for the Intellectually Disabled at YMCA Proms @ the Park 2014 on 27 September, Hong Lim Park

DearMembersandFriends,

The third quarter was bustling withactivitiesandcelebrations forallofusatYMCA.Herearesomeofthehighlights:

Aspiring photojournalists took part in aphoto competition organised by Uni-YSingapore from 25 June to 3 Augustthrough submission of photo essaysfeaturingtheelderly,underprivileged,andpersons with intellectual and physicaldisabilities.Thiscompetitionprovidedanavenue to share the untold stories fromthese communities. Their works wereexhibited at the fourth installation of theYMCA Conversation Series titled “TheTales of Dreamers” on 30 August, andsubsequently at YMCA where you canseethemondisplayonlevelfour.

The 28th YMCA Plain English SpeakingAwards (PESA) 2014 was held over 8weeks from 1 July to 21 August andconcluded with the awards presentationceremony at CHIJ Secondary on 19September. I am happy to note thatthis year, 420 students, 50%more thanlast year, participated in this year’scompetition.ThisEnglishpublicspeakingcompetition is aimed at building self-confidence amongst participants,allowingthemtodeveloptheirabilitiestothink and communicate effectively under

pressure. This opportunity allows thestudents to build up their character andrealise their fullpotentialas theyemergeasconfidentyoungadults.

YMCAProms@thePark2014washeldon27SeptemberatHongLimPark.Theevent broughtmore than900 volunteersincluding staff from participatingorganisations, public befrienders, YMCAvolunteers and beneficiaries from 15Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWOs)forapicnicandconcert inacarnival-likeatmosphere. Mr Teo Ser Luck, Ministerof State, Ministry of Trade and IndustryandMayor,NorthEastDistrictgracedtheeventasourGuest-of-Honour.

Uni-Y Singapore was awarded the TenAccomplishedYouthOrganisations(TAYO)ASEANAwardon9October inBrunei torecognise the sustainable programmes,projects and other achievements madeby the youth for the community. Theaward was presented by theMinister ofCulture, Youth and Sports for Brunei.Uni-Y Singapore was represented atthe ceremony by Mr Clement Cheong,Senior Executive for Youth DevelopmentProgrammes and Ms Delphine Phua,PresidentofUni-YNUS.

Onanothernote,YMCAwillbeorganisingSilverFiestaforthethirdyearrunningon26&27NovemberatToaPayohHDBHubtobringcheertoourelderlybeneficiaries.Dodropbytolendusyoursupportifyouareinthearea.

You can visit our YMCA Facebook pageat www.facebook.com/YMCA.Singaporefor the latest updates and view photosfromourevents,aswellasournewsblogat www.ymcaofsingapore.blogspot.comformoreYMCAnews.

“But he knows the way that I take;when he has tested me, I will come

forth as gold.”Job 23:10 (NIV)

In-His-ServiceStephen LohPresident

Uni-Y wins ASEAN Award

In recognition of its strong communityservice culture which aims to inspireand provide opportunities for youths tobe actively involved in the community,Uni-Y Singapore was awarded the TenAccomplishedYouthOrganisations (TAYO)ASEAN Award on 9 October 2014 inBandarSeriBegawan,Brunei.TheawardsceremonywasgracedbyTheHonourablePehinOrangKayaPekermaLailaDirajaSeriSetiaAwangHajiHazairbinHajiAbdullah,Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports forBrunei who presented the awards. Uni-YSingaporewasrepresentedattheceremonybyMrClementCheong,SeniorExecutive,Youth Development Programmes and MsDelphinePhua,PresidentofUni-YNUS.

The TAYO ASEAN Award is a regional-level award which recognises theachievements made by youth andyouth serving organisations in ASEANmember countries that have implementedsustainable programmes, projects andactivities that may be replicated by otherorganisations.Itaimstopromotethespiritof volunteerism among the ASEAN youthand inculcate universal values for youthleaders in the programmes, projects andactivities. Award winners are selectedbasedontheimpactoftheirprojectstothecommunity, innovativeness, sustainabilityand probability of the project duplication.Uni-Y is theonlySingapore representativeforthisAward.

The TAYO Award, in conjunction with theASEAN Youth Award (AYA), is part of the

ASEAN Youth Day Meeting, an annualregional youth event that is organised byASEAN Member States (on a rotationalalphabetical basis). The Meeting aimsto bring together youth officials, youthsand awardees from ASEAN countriesto celebrate youth achievements andexcellence. Representatives from ninecountries–BruneiDarussalam,Cambodia,Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines,Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam werepresent. The Singapore delegationcomprised representatives from thePeople’s Association, National YouthCouncil, Ministry of Culture, CommunityandYouth,andawardrecipients.

The award recipients hadopportunities toshare their experiences and were treatedto Bruneian cultural performances duringtheMeeting.TheSingaporedelegationalsohad the honour of meeting with Mr JayaRatnam,theSingaporeHighCommissionertoBrunei.

Uni-Y Singapore is the University ServiceClub under the YMCA of Singapore andwas first established at SMU in 2005.Subsequently, Uni-Y clubs were alsoestablishedatNUSandNTU in2007and2009 respectively. Earlier this year, Uni-YSingapore was conferred the SingaporeYouth Award 2014, the nation’s highestyouthaccoladeinhonourofitsexceptionalhumanitarian efforts and outstandingcontribution in cultivating a spirit ofvolunteerism and leadership amongst theyouthofSingapore.

President’s Message

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SnapshotsYouth

DevelopmentProgrammes

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International Conferences - Tainan SHINE Camp

TainanSHINECampisacollaborativeeffortbetween Tainan YMCA and more than 80churchesinTaiwan.Thisyear,thecampwasheldatFarEastUniversityfrom7to11July2014,with the themeof “AmazingGrace”.A total of four YMCA staff and two Uni-Ymembers participated in the camp whichattracted1,400youthfromvariouspartsofTaiwan, as well as international delegatesfromHongKongandKorea.

With a simple and structured programme,SHINE was able to crystalise the conceptof grace for the youth. To facilitate non-believersandnewbelieversinhavingabetterunderstanding of God, time was allocatedfor personal devotion every morning andsmallgroupsharingsessionsaftertheendofeverysermon.Furthermore,theparticipatingyouthwerealsochallengedtoliveapureandholy life throughademographicallydividedgroupdiscussion,wherepastorsandyouthshared their personal testimonies and theimportanceoflivingrightforGod.

Staff of YMCA of Singapore had theopportunity to hear from Mr Jimmy Lin,the General Secretary of Tainan YMCA onhowSHINEstarted.WithavisionforTainanYMCA to live out its mission to relate tothe Young Men and Christian Association,SHINE started out nine years ago from a4 days 3 nights youth leadership camp,attracting600youths,toacampattractingover1,400youthswiththecontinuedvisionof creating a movement of young peoplewholivepassionatelyforJesusandcommitthemselvestopursuingaholyandrighteouslife.

The YMCA staff and Uni-Y members whoparticipated in the camp benefitted greatlyfromtheexperience,bringingbackinvaluablelessonsthatcanbeappliednotonlyintheirpersonallives,butintheirrespectiverolesinYMCAandUni-Yaswell.

Uni-Y’s Leadership and ManagementProgramme (LAMP) is an annual gatheringfor potential Uni-Y executive committeemembers from the three Uni-Ys, namelyUni-YNTU,Uni-YNUSandUni-YSMU.Thisyear,Uni-YhadtheprivilegetoengageMETAConsulting to conduct the programmewiththetheme“LeadingwithCharacterinTimesofGreatChange.”

Uni-Y SMU Step Up Uni-Y LAMP

About Uni-Y Step Up

Uni-Y NUS & NTU Step Up

Uni-YNUSandNTUhadaBiUni-YStepUpcampthatwasheldatNSRCCfrom22to25July2014.Thecamp’smajorhighlightwasthe Tri Uni-Y Nature Walk at HortPark on23July.Atotalof118freshmenandUni-Yleaders from Uni-Y NTU, NUS and SMUbefriendedover90beneficiariesfromVWOsincludingBizLinkCentre,MINDSClementi,Christian Outreach to the Handicapped,MINDS Napiri and Tampines through artsandcraftsandnature-themedgames.Itwasagreattimeof interUni-Ybondingaswell,asparticipantswereabletoseebeyondtheirindividualschoolsandcaptureaglimpseofthecompleteUni-YSingaporeidentity.

Two Uni-Y SMU alumni were invited todeliver the opening and closing speechesof thecamp.MrLinYiHan-who tookonthepresidencyofUni-YSMUin2008andacurrentYouthVolunteerDevelopment(YVD)committee member - gave the openingspeech and challenged the freshmen to,“rather than live a small dream by takingfromtheworld,liveabigdreamforothersbygivingtotheworld”.Theclosingspeechwasdelivered by Mr Tan Wei En who inspiredfreshmentocontinueservingthecommunityevenafterthecampsoasto“trulylivealifethatmatters.”WeiEnwas thePresidentofUni-Y’sSMUexecutivecommittee in2012,and is the current youth representative ofYMCA of Singapore to Asia and PacificAllianceofYMCAs(APAY).

The camp closedwith the freshmenbeingchallenged to apply what they have learntfromthecamp,whichistobeacommunitychampionandbe thechange theywish toseeinsociety.

Atotalof115freshmentookpartintheUni-YSMUStepUpFreshmenOrientationCampfrom14to17August2014.Thecampwasplanned and organised by 49 committeemembers and group leaders, with theobjective of creating a camp experiencethat was both fun and meaningful. TheparticipantstookpartinvariouscommunityserviceprogrammessuchasaYOutingtoRiverSafari,visitstootherVWOstoconductgamesandartsandcraftsactivities forthebeneficiaries. The VWOs include BizLinkCentre, MINDS Napiri and Tampines, SIAMINDs, Cheng San Family Centre, ThyeHuaKuanMoralHome(Eunos),BlueCrossThongKhengHome,BeyondSocialServicesandChristianOutreachtotheHandicapped.Other activities included showcasingUni-YSMU’s social enterprise programme, TheStage @ Jericho’s featuring a night of livemusic from local upcoming bands, goodcompanyandscenicviewsofOrchardRoadfromYMCAofSingapore’sroofterrace.

Uni-YStepUp is a flagshipprogrammeofUni-Y Singapore organised in the form ofa Tri-Uni Freshmen Camp that combinesboth fun and purpose in order to providefreshmen with an orientation experienceunlikeanyother.

Introduced in 2012, Uni-Y Step Upaims to enthuse and unite youth towardpositive societal action and to challengeeach individual to step up and serve thecommunityaroundthem.

During the camp, freshmen are exposedto various social issues in Singapore andgiven opportunities to build meaningfulrelationships with the programme’sbeneficiary groups through the camps’variouscommunityserviceprogrammes.

Thebeneficiarygroupsinclude:peoplewithintellectual and physical disabilities, theelderly, and/or under-privileged children.Highlights of the camp include excitingsignature games such as “Monster Night”aswell as ameaningful role playing gamecalled the “Game of Life” to heighten theparticipants’awarenessofsocialcauses.

Through various leadership models, livelygroup discussions and participation increativeexperientiallearning,theparticipantswereequippedwithleadershipcompetenciesto prepare them for leadership positions inUni-Yinthefuture.

SnapshotsYouth

DevelopmentProgrammes

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Throughsubmissionoftheirphotographsandshort stories, aspiring photojournalists tookpartinacompetitionfrom25Juneto3August2014toshowcasestoriesofthedreamsandaspirations of the elderly, underprivilegedchildren,personswith intellectualdisabilitiesand persons with physical disabilities. Theyactedasagentsforchange,andprovidedanavenue to share the untold stories of thesemarginalisedcommunities.

The competition culminated in a photoexhibitionon30August2014whichwasheldat the National Volunteer and PhilanthropyCentre, in conjunction with the fourth

installationofTheYMCAConversationSeries.Titled “The Tales of Dreamers”, the eventfeaturedover20photoessayssubmittedbythe participating photojournalists, a sharingsessionby threephotojournalists togiveaninsight into theirphotosandstories,aswellasadialoguesessionwith invitedspeakersfromvarious voluntarywelfareorganisationsincluding Mr Dennis Lim, CEO of BishanHome for the Intellectually Disabled, MrStevenTan,CEOofBlueCrossThongKhengHome,MsEileenSu,socialworkeratCareCornerandMrRogerNeo,managerofTungLingCommunityServices.

Moderated by Mr Clarence Chng, a Uni-YNTU volunteer, each speaker shared theirexperience and insights on various issuesandchallenges,allowingparticipantstogainwell-rounded perspectives of volunteerism.Thepanelalsosharedadviceonovercomingchallenges that youths may face whendecidingwhether tovolunteer,and the rightattitudeandhearttopossessbefore,duringand after volunteering. Through this event,manyparticipantswere inspiredtomakeanefforttowardsfulfillingthedreamsofthelessprivilegedinthecommunity.MsEstherChew,Uni-YNUSCommunityServiceDirectorsaid,“I found the programme very meaningfuland enriching and I learnt a lot about howimportant volunteer engagement is.” MsCharlene Loh, Uni-Y NUS Project LeaderforYNatureWalkandYOutingadded,“TheYMCAConversationSeriesmotivates us tocontinue volunteering, begin if we have notdoneso,andtojustpersevereon!”

Uni-Y Singapore Internships

YMCA Conversation Series

As part of Uni-Y’s efforts to holisticallyenrich our volunteers, Uni-Y Singaporeinternships were implemented to broadenyouth perspectives about the social servicesector, as well as better understand thelargerYMCAfamily.Thisyear,atotalofsevenUni-YSingaporemembersembarkedonaninternshipwithYMCAofSingaporeandtwootherinternationalYMCAs.

Local Internships

Joel Fan (Uni-Y SMU President), Lim RuiSi (Uni-Y SMU Vice President, HolisticEnrichment) andBenjamin Loh (Uni-YSMUMember) embarked on their internshipprogrammeundertheYMCAofSingapore’sYouth Development Programmes (YDP)department. The interns were involvedin spearheading various new initiativessuch as the Uni-Y Community ChampionsProgramme,TriUni-Ybrochure,E-newsletterand#shareyoursmilevideo.

Overseas Internships

MsGiselaTjahjadi, 22,Uni-YSMUandMsPearleen Liu, 22, Uni-Y NUS, both Uni-Ymembers, embarked on an internshipprogramme at Osaka YMCA’s internationalschool and English kindergarten. TheyassistedtheteachersinteachingK1students,preparing lesson materials, and interactingwithhighschoolstudentsduringtheirEnglishlessons.Inaddition,theyalsoparticipatedinthe YMCAOsakaGlobal FiestaCamp heldatOsakaYMCA’scampsiteatMountRokkofrom11to13July.Thethemeforthecampwas peace, and interns from China, HongKong,Korea,Taiwanand theUnitedStatesgatheredtosharetheiropinionsandideasonpromotingworldpeace.

As part of YMCA Singapore’s internshipexchange programme with the ChineseYMCA of Hong Kong, (CYMCAHK), twoUni-YNTUmembersembarkedonamonth-long internship in Hong Kong in July. They

Uni-Y Alumni Feature -Mr Tan Wei En

were involved in CYMCAHK’s Global-YExplorers programme, taking the role ofcampcounsellorsaspartoftheirInternationalCampCouncillorProgramme(ICCP).

In thisseries,wewillbe featuringouryouthvolunteers who were actively involved inUni-Y Singapore through their respectiveUni-Y clubs before graduating from theirvariousdegreeprogrammes. This is part ofUni-Y’seffortstocontinueengagingtheUni-YAlumni.

In this issue, we feature Mr Tan Wei Enfrom Uni-Y SMU.Wei En was instrumentalin bringing Uni-Y to greater heights,spearheading new initiatives such as theCouncilofUni-Y.Let’shearabouthisUni-Yjourney, and his words of encouragementto youth with the passion to serve thecommunity!

Wei En graduated from SingaporeManagementUniversityearlierthisyearwherehe majored in Economics. He is presentlylookingforajobinChinaashebelievesthatthere are many opportunities there and hefeelsthatitwillbeexcitingandchallengingtowork in a foreigncountry.Asheputs it, aninterestingfactabouthim isthatpeoplecallhimWaynebecausewhenhisname issaidfast enough, it sounds as though they arecallingWayne.

His first encounter with Uni-Y happenedduringthe2010FreshmanOrientationCamp(FOC).ItwasthenthathelikenedUni-Yas“abigfamilywherepeoplecareforoneanother.”Ashecontinued to learnmoreaboutUni-Yanditsprogrammes,hebecameattractedtotheconceptofsocialentrepreneurshipashefeelsthatitcombinestheideaofabusinesswith a social bottom line. This is where hedecidedtoserve inUni-YSMU’sTheStage@Jericho’s.

AlongWeiEn’sUni-Y journey,onepoignantevent, which he vividly remembers duringthe2012Uni-YFreshmenOrientationCamp(FOC),changedhisperspectiveandattitudetowards serving others. For the first timein his life, hewas tasked to help shower awheelchair-boundbeneficiary.Thebeneficiaryaccidentallyurinatedonhimduringhisbath.“There was a mix of emotions comprisingshockandangerthatwentthroughmymind,and Ibegan toponderwhat it reallymeanstoserveothers.Itdawneduponmethattheprocessofservingothersrequiresustostepoutofourcomfortzones.Though itcanbeunpleasant,IwanttoacknowledgethatIamblessedtobeablessingtothosearoundme,andIwouldcontinuetobeablessingevenifitmeanssteppingoutofmycomfortzone.”

As the youth representative to Asia PacificAlliance of YMCAs (APAY) for YMCA ofSingapore, Wei En feels blessed with theopportunities tomeet youth representativesfrom YMCAs worldwide, including HongKong,SriLanka,Taiwan,Ukraine,theUnitedStatesandmore.

“It is amazing to learn about their lives andunderstand the work that their YMCAs aredoing!” Through these interactions, WeiEn managed to learn some best practicesfromtheirrespectiveUni-Ysaswell.Besides

This programme has given me many opportunities to explore and learn more about myself. It has also increased my

confidence in public speaking, as well as stepping up to manage a huge crowd. I have also learnt to be adaptable to new environments and be more responsive

to others. Also, I had the chance to meet many new and awesome friends from all

over the world as well!

Dexter Koh,Uni-Y NTU member

Likewise, CYMCAHK sent two youthsto intern at YMCA of Singapore in June;Jessica Ng completed her internship withthe Community Service Department, andJackieCheunginternedatProjectBridge.

One take-away project I wish to implement is the Y Camp Challenge. It is interesting and meaningful as volunteers

are paired up with beneficiaries. The moment where the beneficiaries hug their

volunteers on the last day of camp still lingers in my mind.

Ng Ka Hei Jessica,Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong meetingwithlike-mindedindividuals,hewas

alsoabletobeablessingtocommunitiesintheAsiaPacificregionasheinteractedwiththelocalsandbefriendedthemaswell.

Wei En also represented YMCA Singaporeat the lastWorld Alliance of YMCAs (WAY)meeting in the United States in July 2014togetherwithYMCAofSingapore’sGeneralSecretary,MrLoCheeWen.“ThiswasoneofthemostamazingtripsIhaveeverbeenon!NotonlywasIgiventheopportunitytoleadandfacilitatediscussionsduringthemeeting,Iwas also asked to give a presentation forone of YMCA’s key programmes, the Citi-YMCAYouth forCauses, toan internationalaudience. The people I met there wereawesometoo!”AsYouthEmpowermentwasgreatlyemphasisedbytheYMCAmovement,Wei En enjoyed the great opportunity tointeractwith youthwhowere filledwith thepassionandthedrivetodogreaterthingsfortheirrespectivecommunities.

When asked to describe his Uni-Y journeythusfar,WeiEnreplied,“ToLeadistoServe.”

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YouthDevelopmentProgrammes

YouthDevelopmentProgrammes

YCampChallengeisanoutdooradventurecamp organised every quarter by YMCAof Singapore, designed to challenge thepreconceived physical and mental limitsof the beneficiaries. The 3 days 2 nightscamp was held from 5 to 7 September2014 at Water-Venture @ Sembawang.Themed“Superheroes”,YCampChallengeSeptemberwasorganisedbyacommitteeof29YMCAvolunteerleaders.Overthecourseof the camp, the volunteers accompaniedthe beneficiaries for water activities andstationgameswhichwereaimedatbuildingconfidence of the beneficiaries, as wellas a campfire to promote greater bondingbetweenallparticipants.

ThismostrecentYCampChallengemarkedmy one and a half years of volunteeringwithYMCA.IstartedoffasaYConfidencebeneficiary in June 2013. Following mysuccessfulcompletionof theprogramme, Iwasencouragedto joinYCampChallengeto befriend the intellectually challengedbeneficiaries. As it was my first timeinteracting with individuals with specialneeds,Ifeltveryuncomfortableas I was notsurewhat wasexpected ofme.

However,withtheencouragementofYMCAvolunteer leaders and team members, Ibecamemoreconfidentandstartedtoenjoyinteractingwiththebeneficiaries.

WiththeexperienceinJune2013,Ireturnedtovolunteeragain forYCampChallengeafewmonths later in September.When thecamp concluded, my leaders noticed mygrowth and challengedme to take up theroleasavolunteerleaderintheSeptember2014YCampChallenge.Beingaleaderwaschallenging, but at the same time, I learnta lot of valuable lessons from my peers.EverycampIattendedallowedmetogrowfurther andpick upnew learningpoints.YCamp Challenge has provided me with ameaningful volunteering experience, and Iencourageeveryonetoparticipateaswell!

Contributed by Edwin Cheng, Volunteer, YMCA-Tan Chin Tuan Community Service Programmes

Y Camp Challenge

Y Green Fingers with Credit Suisse

With the help of volunteers from GrantThornton and staff from the YMCAInternational Programmes Department, YSportswas held on 6 September 2014 atSengkang Riverside Park and AnchorvaleCommunity Club. It was an exciting andfulfillingday forboth the20volunteersand26 beneficiaries from the TENT and CareCorner (Teck Ghee Youth Centre) as theylearnthowtoplayUltimateFrisbeeandNerfTag.

Y Sports with Grant Thornton

The Y Green Fingers-Terrarium Workshopwas held on 12 September 2014 at theCredit Suisse Office at ONE@Changi City.The engaging and educational workshopallowed theparticipants to learn about thegrowthandassemblyoftheterrariumplants.During theworkshop, the22CreditSuissevolunteers and 26 beneficiaries from theYMCA Student Care Centre at SengkangGreen designed and decorated their ownpersonalterrariums.

Instructors from Agaperium were on handto provide guidance and share about thestep-by-stepprocessofcreatingaterrariumfromscratch.All inall,bothvolunteersandbeneficiarieshadagreatlearningexperiencewhile exercising their individual creativity inbuildingtheirterrariums.

Through the sports activities, thebeneficiaries were given the opportunityto learn about teamwork, communicationand empathy while enjoying the outdoors.Theexhilaratingdaylefteveryonewithfondmemories including some already eagerlyanticipatingthenextYSportsevent.

SnapshotsYMCA-

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YMCAProms@thePark2014washeldatHongLimParkon27September.Over900participantsincludingbeneficiariesfrom15voluntarywelfareorganisations(VWO),corporate volunteers from 15 corporations and non-profit organisations (NPO), aswellaspublicandYMCAvolunteersenjoyedapicnicandconcert inacarnival-likeatmosphere.MrTeoSerLuck,MinisterofState,MinistryofTradeandIndustryandMayor,NorthEastDistrict,openedtheeventwiththeparticipantsbylaunchingflyingdiscsintotheair–anactwhichsymbolisedthehighspiritsofalltheparticipantsandtakingtheeventofftoaflyingstart.

Duringtheevent,MrTeointeractedandtookphotoswithbeneficiariesandvolunteers.Inappreciationforgracingtheoccasion,YMCApresentedMrTeowithacollagemadebyBenLee,amemberoftheYSTARS(YMCASpecialTalents,ArtsandRecreationSociety).TheYSTARSwerealsooneoftheperforminggroupsonstageandmanagedtogetthecrowdgoingwiththeirdanceitem,Let’sRock!.OtherperformersincludedYDGen(YouthDeafGeneration),kidsfromYMCAWoodlandsChildDevelopmentCentre, ballerinas from the YMCAAdult Ballet programme, YMCAKoreanMums,ShannonZannandAugustLai,DVox,andEdmundKhong.

Inadditiontoenjoyingtheperformances,thebeneficiariesalsoparticipatedincarnivalgames includingminiF1 racing,minihockey,hulahoops,WheelofBlessingsandmore.

OrganisedannuallybyYMCAofSingapore,YMCAProms@theParkseekstopromotecorporatesocialresponsibilitybymatchingorganisationswithVWOs,withtheaimofbringingcheer to thebeneficiaries throughanafternoonofmusicandgames inacarnival-likesetting.Priortothefestivitiesatthecarnivalgrounds,thevolunteerswilltourtherespectiveVWOswhichtheirorganisationsarematchedwithtogainabetterunderstandingoftheneedsandchallengesfacedbythebeneficiaries.

Since its introduction in 2007, 130 organisations have stood up for corporatecitizenshipbyparticipatingintheannualYMCAProms@thePark.Collectively,theyhavemobilisedover2,400stafftobefriendandbringcheerto3,900beneficiariesfrommorethan200VWOsthroughtheevent.Manyoftheseorganisationshavecontinuedtomobilisetheirfinancialandmanpowerresourcestotouchlivesandliftspiritsamongthebeneficiariesona regularbasis throughothercommunity serviceprogrammesorganisedbyYMCAofSingapore.

YMCA Proms @ the Park 2014 –Embracing Corporate Social Responsibility

Participating VWOs• BishanHomefortheIntellectuallyDisabled• BlueCrossThongKhengHome• CareCornerSeniorsActivityCentre(TP5)• ChristaliteMethodistHome• Christian Outreach to the Handicapped Emmanuel Activity

Centre@Tampines• Christian Outreach to the Handicapped Emmanuel Activity

Centre@ToaPayoh• HandicapsWelfareAssociation• MethodistWelfareServices–TampinesFamilyServiceCentre• MINDSTampinesTrainingandDevelopmentCentre(TTDC)• PathlightSchool• THKFamilyServiceCentre@TanjongPagar• THKSeniorsActivityCentre@AMK257• THKSeniorsActivityCentre@BukitMerahView• THKSeniorsActivityCentre@ToaPayoh• YStars-YMCASpecialTalentsArtsandRecreationSociety

Community PartnerVenue Sponsor

Silver Partner Bronze Partners

Participating Corporations and NPOs• BarkeritesHockeyClub• BectonDickinson&Company(BD)• CitiSingapore• CreditSuisse• EsriSingaporePteLtd• GMGGlobalLtd• InternationalYMen’sClubofSingapore(AlphaChapter)• KonicaMinoltaBusinessSolutionsAsiaPteLtd• Oshkosh–JLG(S)TechnologyEquipmentPteLtd• PricewaterhouseCoopersLLP• SyntechChemicalsPteLtd• ULInternationalPteLtd.(UL)• Uni-YNUS• VolunteerSpecialConstabulary

YMCA of Singapore would like to thank all participating corporations, partners, VWOs and volunteers for their support of YMCA Proms @ the Park 2014.

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Tan Chin Tuan Community Service

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Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014 Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014

The 28th YMCA Plain English SpeakingAwards (PESA) 2014 was held over eightweeks (from1 July to 21August),with theAwards Presentation Ceremony on 19September at CHIJ Secondary. A recordbreaking420students,50%more than lastyear,participatedinthisyear’scompetition.

MrBryanTan,Chairman,28thYMCAPESAOrganising Committee, was heartened bythe increase in participation and said, “Thissignificant increase in participation bodeswell forthepromotionofusingplainEnglishin everyday life. Plain English is appropriateand effective. It does not confuse, frustrateor misinform. The hallmark of an effectivecommunicator is the ability to speak plainlywithoutbeingverbose.”

Mr Neo Kian Hong, Permanent Secretary(Education Development), Ministry ofEducation, graced theAwardsPresentationCeremony as the Guest-of-Honour andpresentedtheawardstothewinners.

28th YMCA Plain English Speaking Awards (PESA) 2014

YMCA would like to congratulate all the winners for this year’s YMCA Plain English Speaking Awards (PESA) 2014:

Pre-School Category

Lower Primary Category

Upper Primary Category

Lower Secondary Category

Upper Secondary Category

JC/ CI/ ITE/ Poly Category

1st Yee You RayBethesda (Depot Walk) Kindergarten

Eashaa PillaiCHIJ Our Lady Queen of Peace

Edward GoAnglo-Chinese School (Primary)

Sebastian Chan St. Joseph’s Institution

Jonathan SoongSt. Joseph’s Institution

Shane YeohAnglo-Chinese Junior College

2nd Jerome ChanSt. James’ Church Kindergarten (Leedon)

Aayushi TarafdarRaffles Girls’ Primary

Martin Patrick InglinSt. Stephen’s School

Karisha Tej Kumar PartabraiTanjong Katong Girls’

Yap Xin RanCHIJ Secondary

Rashmita Marie KearleTemasek Junior College

3rd Dana Joy SimSt. James’ Church Kindergarten (Leedon)

Nyla Putri Mohamed Esman Qifa Primary

Durga ChandrashekharTemasek Primary

Elijah Putera LeeAnglo-Chinese School (Independent)

Selina XuNanyang Girls’ High

Elizabeth TeohAnglo-Chinese School (Independent)

Sponsored ByIn Partnership With

Competition Venue Sponsored By

SnapshotsYMCA Plain English Speaking Awards (PESA)

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Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014 Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014

YMCA School Annual Games Day

On 18 July 2014,more than 100 studentsgathered at the lush green landscape ofBishan Park for the fourth annual YMCAGamesDay.

The event was organised to promote ahealthy lifestyle among students as part ofYMCA School’s vision to embrace holisticeducation.

One of the top priorities was the students’safety. Before the games commenced,a safety briefing was conducted for allstudents. Water bottles were given out toensurethatthestudentswerewellhydratedfortheactivities.

Students were taught how to play thetraditional game, ‘Hantam Bola’, whichmeans to ‘hit the ball’ in Malay. Gameplayinvolved students working in teams toeliminate members of opposing teams byhittingtheirarmsorlegswithaball.Inadditionto‘HantamBola’,thestudentsalsoengagedinagameofUltimateFrisbee.

It was an eye opener for all teachers astheyweretreatedtoactivitiesoutsideoftheclassroomtobondwiththeirstudents.Seeingthe students relaxed and running freelyoutsideclass reminded themon the joysofbeingyoungandfulloflife.Theteachersfeltthat it was an excellent opportunity to get

To learn more about volunteerism, 60participants attended a Youth ExpeditionProject (YEP) Sharing Session held atYMCA of Singapore on 23 August 2014.The sharing was conducted by teamSowing Life, a group of volunteers whoembarked on a YMCA InternationalService Programme (ISP) to Koh Rokar,Cambodiafrom9to13May2014.SowingLife comprises working professionalswho aspire to make a difference in thelivesofchildrenandyouths inCambodia.It is made up of past YEP participants -who were encouraged to serve beyondtheir first YEP trip - bonding togetheragain to return toCambodia toserve thecommunity there.MsSeetChunChen,amemberoftheYMCA’sISPCoreVolunteerGroup, was also present to share herviews and experience on the issue ofvolunteerismandtheimpactofsustainablevolunteerism. YMCA of Singapore’sGeneralSecretary,MrLoCheeWen,and

to know the students better. In addition, itservedasaddedmotivationtoteachbetter.ThedayendedwithaprizepresentationforthewinningteamsanddebriefbythePrincipalofYMCASchool,MrsHelenTan.

Contributed byAbraham Ho, Teacher, YMCA School

“Even though it was a day for fun and games by the

students, it was a “learning journey for us teachers as we

discovered a lot about our students with a few hours at the park. Perhaps one day,

we could conduct our lessons in the garden to give our

students a different but fun learning environment.”

- Abraham Ho

From 15 to 29 June 2014, a team of 25volunteerscomprisingrepresentativesfromNTU Earthlink Club, Rezeca Renewables,YingliSolarandYMCAofSingaporecametogethertoinstalla3kWoff-gridsolarpanelpowersystemforaschoolinthevillageofBanLadKhammune,Laos.

TheteamwashostedbyMyLaoHomewhichassisted in expediting the administrativeprocess for getting the project underwayandseeingtothelogisticalrequirementsoftheteam.

Laotian Village School Gifted With Solar Power YEP Sharing Session

Astheonlyeducationalfacilityforsome100children from seven neighbouring villages,thegiftofcleanandrenewablesolarenergyenables the school to be lit by modernLEDlightsandventilatedbyelectricalfans,therebycreatingamoreconducivelearningenvironment for the students. In addition,theelectricalpowergeneratedwillalsobeusedforpoweringaudioandvisualteachingaids to enhance the students’ learningexperienceandforcommunityeventsheldattheschool.

Engineers from Yingli Solar and RezecaRenewableswereamongthevolunteersforthis project, and theyworked together onsitetoensurethatthesystemwasinstalledsafelyandcorrectly.Managementstafffromboth organisations were also present tosupervise theproject.Withguidance fromRezecaRenewables,thestudentvolunteersfromNTUEarthlinkClubhelpedtoplantheelectricalwiringsystemfortheschool,installLED lights, fansanda lightningprotectionsystem. Yingli Solar, which sponsoredthe solar panels, conducted training onmaintenance and troubleshooting for theprincipalandteachersoftheschool.

In a village where over 70% of dwellingsdo not have electricity, the solar poweredschoolstandsoutasasymbolicalbeaconof hope for the villagers as their youngcan now receive their education with thesupportofmoderntechnology.

Followingthesuccessfulcompletionoftheproject, the teamvisited theother villagesin the vicinity to understand the needs ofthevillagers.

This Youth Expedition Project was co-ordinated by YMCA of Singapore throughits International Service Programme, andpoweredbytheNationalYouthCouncil.

A Joint Project Supported by

Co-ordinated by Powered by

“Whether you are a task or people-oriented individual serving the less privileged

overseas through the YMCA International Service Programme, it is always about the beneficiaries you are serving that matters

the most.”

- Ms Seet Chun Chen

AssistantGeneralSecretary(Programmes),MsSamanthaSeahwerepresentaswell.

YMCA of Singapore administers fundsfromtheNationalYouthCounciltosupportvolunteersfortheYouthExpeditionProject(YEP). This support enables youths toembarkonservice-learningexpeditionstomakeadifferencetooverseascommunitiesinASEAN,ChinaandIndia.

Powered by:

SnapshotsYMCA School

SnapshotsInternational Service Programmes

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Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014 Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014

SnapshotsInternational

ServiceProgrammes

15

Upcoming YMCA Outdoor and Adventure Programmes

A total of 98 contestants comprising 63Lower Primary students (Primary Oneand Two) and 35 Upper Primary Students(PrimaryThreetoSix)from12YMCAStudentCare Centres islandwide participatedin the 2nd YMCA Student Care CentresStorytellingCompetition 2014 fromAugusttoSeptember.The semi-finals and finals were held atYMCA of Singapore on 10 September. Atotal of 39 contestants (23 Lower Primaryand 16 Upper Primary students) qualifiedfor the semi-finals with 14 contestants(8 Lower Primary and 6 Upper Primarystudents)makingittothefinals.Duringthecompetition, thecontestantsenthralled theaudience and judges with their lively andcreative oral presentation skills of stories.With the support of 38 parents who werepresenttocheertheirchildrenon,theyoungcontestantstoldstoriesincluding,“IWannaIguana”,“EdwardtheFlyingElephant”,“TheElvesandTheShoemaker”,and“TheUglyDuckling”.

Before the final competition commenced,14 children from YMCA Bukit Batok ChildDevelopment Centre performed a danceitem titled “A Big Box of Bears”, and 29studentsfromtheYMCASpringdaleStudentCareCentre gave a poem recital titled “AllThingsBrightandBeautiful”.

YMCA would like to congratulate all winners:

Lower Primary Category• 1stPrize-JanelleKok(LoyangSCC)• 1stRunnerup-ChloeLee(TaoNanSCC)• 2ndRunnerup-GohGuanRui(SengkangGreenSCC)

• 3rdRunnerup-ChongSheiXuan(JurongWestSCC)

Upper Primary Category• 1st Prize - Genevieve Tay Zi Qing (StMargaret’sSCC)

• 1stRunnerup-EthanLau(TaoNanSCC)• 2ndRunnerup-EmilyZeng(QueenstownSCC)

• 3rdRunnerup-PheobeOngHongYing(JurongWestSCC)

YMCA of Singapore would like to acknowledge and thank the following sponsors and volunteers for their contributions towards the competition:

SponsorsAdamKhooLearningCentreMarshallCavendishEducationOpenTrolleysReader’sDigestAsiaLimitedSpeakGoodEnglishMovement

JudgesChief Judge - Mrs Helen Tan, Principal,YMCASchool

Semi-Finals, Lower Primary Category•MsMabelChia,ClusterPrincipal,CDCs•MsDollyLeow,Member, StorytellingAssociationofSingapore•MsKarenLee,Member, StorytellingAssociationofSingapore

Semi-Finals, Upper Primary Category• DrCheahYinMee, LinguisticandEducationConsultant•MsLamSweeYean,Professionalmember,StorytellingAssociationofSingapore

•MrJohnTan,AssociateTeacher, YMCASchool

Finals, Lower and Upper Primary Category•MsAtikkSueMekrat,AssociateTeacher,YMCASchool

•MsNandiniNagpal,Member, StorytellingAssociationofSingapore•MsTanJooHymn,Member, StorytellingAssociationofSingapore

YMCA Student Care Centres Storytelling Competition 2014

Mr Lo Chee Wen, General Secretary,YMCA of Singapore, graced the occasionas the Guest-Of-Honour and presentedtheawardsandcertificatestothetopeightwinners.MsLynetteYeo,AssistantGeneralSecretary (Social Enterprises), YMCA ofSingapore, presented six contestants withencouragementprizesfortheirefforts.

MrsEuniceTay,motherofMissGenevieveTay,thewinneroftheUpperPrimarycategorysaid, “This is Genevieve’s second timeparticipating in theStorytellingCompetitionorganisedbyYMCA.Throughthisevent,shehaslearnttobedisciplinedbypracticingandmemorising her story lines regularly beforethecompetition.Furthermore,shehaslearnttospeakgoodEnglishandspeakconfidentlyinpublic.”MrsTayalsomentionedthatsheisgladYMCAorganisessucheventsastheyprovideanavenueforstudentstoshowcasetheir potential and train them to be moreconfidentinpublicspeaking.“Studentsalsolearnaboutrespect,friendshipandcreativitywhendeliveringtheirstories”,sheadded.

Contributed by Susan Lim,Executive, Child Development & Student Care Centres

BikeYex Taiwan (Camping style)Come cycling with us for an inside viewof Taiwan on wheels! Be awed by themagnificentviewofthepeaksofTaiwanandtheunendingcoastlineofthePacificOcean.This5daysand4nightsself-supportedridebringsyouthroughthemostscenicpartsofTaiwan’s east coast. Enjoy the open nightskieswhilecampingoutandthewonderfulseabreezewhiletravellingfromcampsitetocampsite.

Date: 12-16Dec2014Programme fees: $1,465perpax(LandCost)

Y Treks Xue Shan, Taiwan (Winter) Ataheightof3,886m(12,749ft),XueShanor Snow Mountain, is the second highestmountaininTaiwanandthehighestpointofthe SyueMountainRange, stretching fromnortheasttosouthwestTaiwan.ThistrekwillbeconductedinAutumn,wherewewillbesurroundedbyRedandOrange.Wewillbeformingour7thYMCAOutdoorAdventuresteamforXueShan,dojoinus!

Date:12-15Mar2015Programme fees:$876.40*perpax(LandCost)

Y Ski HokkaidoLookingtoexperienceJapaneseWinter?

Ski with us on our signature winter sportholiday held in Rusutsu Resort, Hokkaido;aswepartnerYMCAHokkaidoinfacilitatingthisprogramme for the7thyear!Enjoy thewintry experience while taking ski lessonsfrom YMCA Hokkaido’s experienced skiinstructors!

Date:17-23Dec2014Programme fees: (LandCost)

Type/ Accomodation

Twin/ Triple Single

AdultSki $2,341.40* $2,741.40*

AdultNon-ski $1,716.40* NIL

ChildSki $1,880.70* NIL

ChildNon-ski $1,505.70* NIL

LandCost

Malaysia 1 Day AdventureShort adventurous excursion to Malaysiafor waterfall tracing, mountain trekkingand exploring river caves for theweekendwarriors!

Trip Name Date Price*

YAdventuresBatuMaloi 28Feb2015,25Jul2015

$106.40

Registration and enquires:• Freddie Wee- freddiewee@ymca.org.sg(65862360)• Gracie Ngoi- graciengoi@ymca.org.sg(65862324)• Vivien Sng- viviensng@ymca.org.sg(65862333)• Gladys Cheong- gladyscheong@ymca.org.sg(65862336)

*Membersenjoyarebateof$21.40foralltripsstated.

Prices stated are not inclusive of airfare.Pricesaresubjecttochangeduetosurchargechangesduringpeakholidayperiodsoritinerarychangesbasedonparticipants’needs.

LikeusonourFacebookpage:Search“YMCAOutdoors&Adventure”

OrjoinourMeetupgroup:Search“YMCAOutdoorAdventurers”

@ymca.adventures

Y Adventures Lijiang, YunnanSituated in southwestern China, Lijianghostsmanymountainsofvaryingdifficulties,makingittheadventurecapitalofsouthwestChina.

Comejoinusoffthebeatenpathsofancientteahorse trading routes, through the TigerLeaping Gorge. Try innovative ways ofscaling newheights onChina’s highest via ferrata, built along the mythical mountainrange of Laojunshan. The experienceculminatesatthepeakofthemajesticJadeDragonSnowMountainwhichhousesoneofChina’syear-roundiceglacierparks.

Date: 7-11Apr2015Programme fees: $946.40*perpax(LandCost)

Y Treks Hong Kong Challengeyourself to treka totalof100kmin four days from East to West of theNewTerritories (Sai Kung to TuenMun). Asignature programme held in conjunctionwiththeChineseYMCAofHongKong,thefamous MacLehose trail is a classic ultra-distance route recognised internationallyand used for the annualOxfamTrailwalkercharitywalk.

EnjoythebeautifulsceneryfromgreatwhitebeachesofSaiWantotheridgelineofMaOn Shan, including the well maintainednationalparksofHongKong.NotforgettingthescrumptiousdimsumbreakfastandthefamouswaxedmeatofTseunWan,therewillbesomethingforeveryone.

Date: 26Nov-1Dec2014Programme fees:$846.40*perpax(LandCost)

SnapshotsOutdoor & Adventure

Programmes17

SnapshotsChild Care & Student Care

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Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014 Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014

Everyinfantisbornwiththe ability to becomea ‘‘water baby”. Theterm “water baby” isa term used for aninfant who has theability to be at easein waters withoutthe aid of floatingdevices or beinglimited to shallowwaters. This is thefirststeptolearninghowtoswim.

The key to do so is early introduction.Byintroducinginfantstothewater,itallowsthemtobecomeawareoftheirsurroundingsas they discover the freedomof buoyancyand start to become coordinated in thewater. Water activities help infants innumerouswayssuchastheirdevelopmentalskills, gross motor skills, coordination,balanceandconfidence.

Can My Baby Swim?

Stand Strong by Nick Vujicic( ISBN: 9780307730930 )

Bornwithnoarmsand legs,NickVujicichasalwaysbeenatargetforbulliesandknowshow it is like to be pickedon and pushed around.However, he has learnedthathedoesnothavetoplayalongwithbulliesandneithershouldyou!

In his book “Stand Strong”, Nick Vujicicprovidesreaderswithapproachesonhowtodevelopa‘bullydefensesystem’todealwithbulliesofallages.Throughbuildingstrengthfromtheinsideout,thisbookwillshowhowreaders can standup for themselves. Turnbullying into an opportunity by creating asafety zone and establishing strong andfirm values. “Stand Strong” also includeschaptersonhow todealwithcyberbulliesand being aware of one’s emotions whilehelpingothersinthesamesituation.

Price:$23.54YMCA Members enjoy a 10% discount.PleaseproduceavalidYMCAmembershipcardtoenjoythediscountat:

SKSBOOKSWAREHOUSE315OutramRoad#09-03TanBoonLiatBuildingTel:62279700|Fax:62214595

FocusOutdoor provides a range of travel,camping, outdoor and self-defenceproductsthatcandoubleupasemergencypreparedness gear for a survival situation.We also stock water-purifiers, waterproofand shockproof hand phones and otheressential equipment suitable for missiontrips.

FocusOutdoorcarriesthefollowingbrands:Katadyn, RugGear, Quechua, Decathlonandmanymore!

Privileges:10%offforallproductsexceptRuggearFreegiftwithpurchaseof$25andaboveTerms & Conditions*Validpassmustbeshown*Notvalidwithotherpromotions

Location(s):505BeachRoad#02-204&#02-198GoldenMileFoodCentre

Visitwww.focusoutdoorstore.com formoredetails.

New YMCA Merchant Partner: Onsight Climbing Gym

The following books are available at theYMCAMemberServicesCounter(Level1).Be a YMCA member and enjoy a 10%discount:

Paul’s Life and Journeyby Carol Kauffman

Price:$37.45ISBN:9788772479767

Reflections on Time& Eternityby Robert M Solomon

Price:$12.84ISBN:9789814413640

Tales from the Monasteryby Alex Tang

Price:$14.98ISBN:9780984509218

Biomedical Ethics and The Churchby Roland Chi

Price:$19.26ISBN:9789814270212

The Raceby Robert M Solomon

Price:$17.12ISBN:9789814222631

YMCA Merchandise

YMCA Merchant Partner:Focus Outdoor

YMCA Cool Fit T-Shirt$15.00each

Availableinblack,blue,green,orange,andpink

YMCA Bath Towels$12.00eachAvailable in grey and white

A6 Notebook-$15.00Bookmark-$5.00Bookmarks (Pack of 3)-$20.00Small Candle-$24.00

Climbingisaprogressivesportthatnurturesthe body and mind. While climbing, youimprove concentration and balance, buildup self-confidence and inculcate mentalperseverance.

OnsightClimbingGymisthebiggestindoorclimbinggyminSingapore.Therearemorethan 100 climbing routes with wide rangeof difficulties. Onsight also provides sportclimbing courses and coaching services,aswellasretailingclimbingequipmentandapparels.

YMCA Member Privileges:•Members’EntryRate•DiscountedPrivateSingaporeStandardLevel1CourseTerms & Conditions:•ValidYMCAmembershipcardmustbeshown•Notvalidwithotherpromotions

Location(s):100GuillermardRoad,Singapore399718ContactNo.:63488272

Visitwww.onsight.com.sgformoredetails.

Onsight Climbing Gym

Onsightclimbing

Onsightclimbinggym

Infantswhostarttolearnhowtoswimbefore6months old alreadybegin to practice ontheirbreathholdingresponses.Thus,whenthey get older, they will be able to betterunderstandhowtoholdtheirbreathandnotdependontheDivingReflex.However, it isimportant to know that babies should notbesubmergedfortoolonganditisstronglyadvised to conduct submersion practicewithaprofessionalcoach.Thesubmersionduration will gradually increase with morepracticeonbreathcontrol.

Manyparentsexpect tosee instant resultsfortheirbabies.Unfortunately,theiranxiousexpectationsmight hinder rather than helpprogress.

Aschildrenlearnbetterthroughplay,learninghowtoswimismosteffectivewhenitisseenasarelaxingandfunactivitybothforthemandtheirparents. Ifthefocusisonresults,infants might start to dislike swimmingclassesandplayinginwater.

Although the infant will be able to swimindependently after 2 years of constantclasses, the initial months are the mostimportantasitiswheretheinfantbeginstolearnthefundamentalsofswimming.

Contributed by Ms Linda Tan, Inspire Mum & Baby’s Head InstructorLinda conducts Aqua Pregnancy, Aqua Tots and Aqua Baby classes on Saturday mornings at YMCA of Singapore. For more information, kindly contact Member Services at 6586 2255 or email members@ymca.org.sg

Frombirth,all infantshaveanatural reflex.Called the diving or gag reflex, it allowsthem to be submerged without the fearof swallowing water. When the infantgoes underwater, the epiglottitis closes topreventwaterfromgoingintothewindpipe.Nonetheless,therewillbeasmallpercentageofinfantsthatdonothavethiscapabilityandthe Diving Reflex ability might disappearwithin 2 to 6 months. However, this mayvarybetween infants as somedomaintainthisskilluntiltheybecomemucholder.

Earlyintroductionwillallowyourlittleonetobeexposedandlearntousethisreflexandprogress froman involuntary toavoluntarymuscleaction.Assuch,theywill learnhowtoholdtheirbreathinthewater.Ifyouwishto know if your child has this reflex, it isgoodandadvisabletodiscussthiswithanexperiencedbabyswimminginstructor.

The visual below shows an image of aninfant demonstrating the diving reflex. Hiseyesareopenedwideandhistonguestuckout to preventwater fromentering. This isjustoneexampleofthedivingreflexatwork.(Image courtesy of Inspire Mum & Baby’scoach,Lindaandherbabyboy,Jacob)

Handmade with real Dendrobium YMCA Orchids.Named after YMCA of Singapore in 2007 bythe National Parks Board on the occasion ofYMCA’s 105th Anniversary, the DendrobiumYMCA is a robust and free flowering hybridwhich reflects YMCA’s work in serving thecommunityovertheyears.

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Be aYMCA

Member19

SnapshotsYMCAAquaProgrammes

SnapshotsChristianWellness

Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014 Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014

Ifyouhaveaheartfortheintellectuallyandphysicallychallenged,abusedandunderprivilegedchildrenorelderly,wewantYOU!YMCAofSingaporeorganisesregularactivitiestoimprovethelivesofthelessfortunate.

Pleasenotethatprogrammedetailsaresubjecttochangeandvolunteeringslotsaresubjecttoavailability.

ToregisterasaYMCAvolunteer,pleasefillinyourdetailsintheYMCAVolunteerManagementSystemathttp://vms.ymca.org.sg

Forenquiries,pleaseemailvolunteer@ymca.org.sg

YMCA-Tan Chin Tuan Community Service Programmes

Week 1 (01.12.14 – 07.12.14)

Y Camp Challenge ForbeneficiariesfromAWWACentre,RainbowCentre(YishunParkSchool),MountbattenVocationalSchoolandNapiriTraining&DevelopmentCentreDate :ThursdaytoSunday,4-7DecVenue:PeirceSecondarySchool

Y Sports | Swim SaferForbeneficiariesfromCareCornerFSCDate :Thursday4DecTime :3.00pm–6.00pmVenue:BedokSwimmingComplex

Y Arts Challenge (Art)ForYMCASpecialTalentsArts&RecreationSociety(YSTARS)Date :Saturday6DecTime :10.40am–1.00pmVenue:GoodmanArtsCentre

Y Guitar ClubForbeneficiariesfromAssociationforPersonswithSpecialNeeds-CentreForAdultsDate :Saturday6DecTime :9.00am–1.00pmVenue:29JalanTembusu

Y Outing ForbeneficiariesfromTheTentandCareCornerTeckGheeYouthCentreDate :Saturday6DecTime :9.00am-2.00pmVenue:AliveMuseum

Y Spring Clean (TBA) ForbeneficiariesfromThyeHuaKwanSAC@TelokBlangahCrescentDate :Saturday6DecTime :9.00am–1.00pmVenue:Blk3TelokBlangahCrescent

Week 2 (08.12.14 – 14.12.14)

Y Sports | Swim SaferForbeneficiariesfromCareCornerFSCDate :Thursday,11DecTime :3.00pm–6.00pmVenue:BedokSwimmingComplex

Y Dance Outreach ForbeneficiariesfromBishanHomeDate :Saturday13DecTime :2.00pm–6.00pmVenue:BishanHome

Week 3 (15.12.14 – 21.12.14)

Y Makan Fellowship ForbeneficiariesfromFeiYueSeniorActivityCenter(HollandClose)THKSeniorActivityCentre@MacPhersonCareCornerSAC(TP5)Date :Saturday17DecTime :8.30am–1.30pmVenue:YMCAofSingapore

Y Sports | Swim SaferForbeneficiariesfromCareCornerFSCDate :Thursday18DecTime :3.00pm–6.00pmVenue:BedokSwimmingComplex

Y OutingForbeneficiariesfromYMCASpecialTalentsArts&RecreationSociety(YSTARS)Date :Saturday20DecTime :9.30am–1.30pmVenue:RiverSafari(TBA)

Week 4 (22.12.14 – 28.12.14)

Y Sports | Swim SaferForbeneficiariesfromCareCornerFSCDate :Tuesday23DecTime :3.00pm–6.00pmVenue:BedokSwimmingComplex

Week 5 (29.12.14 – 04.01.15)

Y Sports | Swim Safer ForbeneficiariesfromCareCornerFSCDate :Tuesday30DecTime :3.00pm–6.00pmVenue:BedokSwimmingComplex

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Be a YMCA Volunteer

Y Factor I Third Quarter 2014