Shifting Lenses

Over the past few months, we’ve taken a break from the blog. My sister and co-founder has been busy with college prep and senior year activities, while I have started several new volunteer roles that have been time-consuming during the training phase.

Now that my training is over, I have time to reflect on the culture of volunteerism I observe in Singapore versus the United States. Throughout the years, I have volunteered with many different organizations, including many in the States. My mother is an avid volunteer, both through schools and charity organizations, so I can honestly say that giving back was a core part of my upbringing.

When I volunteered in the US, I often felt like most people were there for what the experience could do for them. Resume building, required hours for school, etc. Even my mother casually mentioned that many people volunteered at least in part for networking. Regardless of the motivation, volunteering helps the community, so it ultimately benefits everyone.

Singapore, however, feels different. Yes, there are still plenty of high school and college students logging hours to gain experience, but adult volunteerism seems particularly strong here. It is promoted by the government, well-organized, and feels very easy to do through platforms like Giving.sg.

If you look strictly at the numbers, the percentage of people who volunteer in the US is higher than in Singapore. However, much of that is driven by church-based service. It feels like the statistics don’t tell the whole story. My impression of volunteerism in Singapore is that it’s more about the “greater good” and a nation-building mindset. It is seen as the appropriate collective behavior if you have the time. In contrast, a large portion of American volunteerism feels more faith-based or a school requirement. 

Ultimately, no matter the motivation, volunteering should be a part of everyone’s life, and I am grateful that I grew up experiencing it.