Non-resident Participation in Community Volunteer Scheme, Opportunities for Greater Responsibilities and Structured Pathways for Sustained Volunteers
Ministry of Culture, Community and YouthSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns non-resident participation and progression pathways within the People's Association (PA) Community Volunteer scheme. Mr David Hoe asked if the PA tracks long-term non-resident volunteers, what opportunities exist for regular volunteers to take on more responsibilities, and whether structured pathways could be established for sustained non-resident volunteers. Minister Edwin Tong Chun Fai explained that because the scheme welcomes everyone regardless of status, the PA does not track the citizenship or residency of its Community Volunteers. He noted that experienced volunteers can take on greater responsibilities, including leading teams, mentoring newcomers, and coordinating engagement activities. However, Minister Edwin Tong Chun Fai highlighted that entering structured programmes to become grassroots leaders requires volunteers to be Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents.
Transcript
58 Mr David Hoe asked the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) whether the People's Association (PA) tracks participation by long-term non-residents in its Community Volunteer scheme; (b) what opportunities exist for those who volunteer regularly to take on greater responsibilities; and (c) whether PA will consider more structured pathways for sustained non-resident volunteers while retaining existing eligibility requirements for formal grassroots leadership.
Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: I am answering in my capacity as the Minister charged with the responsibility for the People's Association (PA).
Volunteers are integral to PA's mission. We have a range of volunteering opportunities where everyone, residents and non-residents, can care for and give back to the community. For individuals who may be looking for ad-hoc volunteering opportunities, the Community Volunteering scheme welcomes all, regardless of citizenship or residency status, to volunteer based on causes, skills or projects. In line with the objectives of the scheme, we do not track citizenship or residency status of our Community Volunteers.
As Community Volunteers build their experience and readiness, we invite them to step up and take on greater responsibility, such as leading volunteer teams, mentoring new volunteers or coordinating community engagement activities. Community Volunteers who are ready for higher commitment and a more structured programme and are a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident, may apply to be grassroot leaders.