ISG revamps the Beyond Social Services centre in Singapore, creating a cosy place that is truly representative of the community
Nestled in the southeast of Singapore is Whampoa, a housing estate where old and new blocks of flats bring an eclectic mix of residents into the area – young professionals in their first homes, the elderly who knows all neighbours in nearby blocks, and families living in subsided public housing flats struggling to make ends meet.
Located at the void deck of a public housing flat at Whampoa Drive, Beyond Social Services has been an inconspicuous gathering place for the youth from low-income families living in the area. Many come to the centre for tuition, computer lessons and community activities organised by volunteers. After operating for several years, the centre was facing a recurring pest infestation problem and the facilities were in dire need of upgrading.
With the support of an anonymous corporate partner, ISG worked with Yi Yong, KS Services, JPL Builders, Weng Stone, A-power Engineering to renovate the premises over four weeks – transforming its interior to one that fully represents the aspirations of the youth in Whampoa, and Beyond Social Services’ continuing efforts to build a supportive community that welcomes all, and never gives up on people in need.
The team onsite revamped the computer lab, learning space, hygiene and storage facilities by delivering demolition, flooring, tiling, electrical and paint works, and then completing restroom, basin and door installations.
IT equipment including desktop computers and a projector was provided by an anonymous corporate partner and ISG - ensuring that youths in the community can learn powerpoint, excel and coding, together with other pertinent IT skills required in business.
The premises mean a lot to our young members and they have told us that they are really happy with the new look. It is more comfortable and because they have happy memories of the place before it was refreshed, it feels like they now have two centres in their hearts. They are also very proud that the story of their experiences in the centre and their community have been captured on the mural.
Gerard Ee, Executive Director, Beyond Social Services
The final touch to the renovation of the charity's premises is a beautiful wall mural designed by Ohm Chongthanatrakol from Just Sketch. He and his team were onsite last week, guiding kids to paint confidently on the wall together with their friends in neighbourhood. For many – it was their first time painting a wall mural.
“This place feels very different from the old one – it feels bigger. Last time there were just two toilets, now four. It’s much better, more comfortable now. And today is my first time painting a wall mural. It’s very relaxing. I am inspired to paint on the other walls too!”, says Danish Iman, 16, who dapples with art in his free time.
“I like the colours. Very nice. I like painting the people best. They look kind and nice. I am happy that I am painting part of it!” – Ruth, 10
The centre has resumed operations and its young members have begun to return for classes in small groups, with many enjoying the peace and quietness afforded by the clean, tidy, newly sound-proofed and airconditioned premises. While many activities have been put on hold due to Covid-19 regulations, Beyond Social Services will continue to provide food aid and support others in the community in building up their income-generating capabilities in the coming months.
Interested donors can support Beyond Social Services’ ongoing food aid campaign at: https://www.giving.sg/beyond-social-services/Jiak_Ba_Buay
