Description of Organization

The mission of the Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped (SAVH) is to help visually impaired individuals achieve independence and integrate into society by providing them with essential support, training, and opportunities. SAVH envisions a more inclusive community where the visually impaired can lead fulfilling lives with dignity.

Its goals include:
• Enhancing accessibility and inclusion for visually impaired individuals in all aspects of society.
• Providing vocational and rehabilitation services to empower clients towards self-reliance.
• Raising public awareness about the needs and capabilities of the visually impaired.
• Expanding partnerships with organizations and volunteers to strengthen support networks.

Core Programmes and Services
SAVH provides comprehensive services to support the visually impaired:

1. Rehabilitation and Training
• Low Vision Clinic (LVC): Offers assessments and optical aids to maximize remaining vision.
• Orientation & Mobility Training: Teaches independent travel using canes and mobility techniques.
• Assistive Devices Centre (ADC): Provides assistive technologies and daily living aids.

2. Skills Development & Employment
• Vocational Training: Prepares individuals for employment opportunities.
• Touch Art Programme: Equips visually impaired artisans with creative skills.

3. Education and Social Integration
• White Cane Club: Organizes social and recreational activities.
• IT Training: Teaches digital literacy for personal and professional use.

4. Community Engagement & Awareness
• Dining in the Dark: A sensory dining experience to promote understanding of visual impairment.
• Public Education Talks: Advocates for inclusivity in workplaces and schools.

Through these initiatives, SAVH continues to empower the visually impaired to lead independent and meaningful lives.

Intended use of funds through the YFC programme

The Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped (SAVH) aims to use the funds raised to enhance the well-being, mobility, and independence of our beneficiaries by investing in equipment and sports programmes that encourage an active lifestyle.

Key Areas of Fund Utilization

1. Purchase of Equipment
• Upgrading assistive devices such as white canes, screen readers, and Braille notetakers to improve daily independence.
• Acquiring sports and fitness equipment tailored for the visually impaired, including goalball kits, tandem bicycles, and sensory training tools.

2. Sports & Recreation Programmes
• Expanding sports initiatives such as lawn bowling, yoga, swimming, and showdown to promote physical activity.
• Supporting training sessions and competitive opportunities for visually impaired athletes.
• Organizing community-based fitness workshops that encourage a more active lifestyle.

3. Encouraging an Active Lifestyle
• Developing structured wellness programmes that integrate movement and social engagement.
• Partnering with professionals to provide guided fitness training and adaptive exercise routines.
• Hosting awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of an active lifestyle for the visually impaired.

4. Our Organisational Needs
• To continue providing these essential services, SAVH requires:
• Continuous funding to maintain and expand sports programmes.
• Upgraded infrastructure for safe and accessible recreational activities.
• More trained facilitators and volunteers to support visually impaired individuals in sports and fitness activities.
By supporting these initiatives, we aim to empower visually impaired individuals to lead healthier, more independent, and fulfilling lives.

Engaging and involving the YFC participants

To ignite the passion of the Young Fundraisers for Charity (YFC) teams and strengthen their commitment to SAVH’s cause, it’s essential to provide them with meaningful experiences that connect them directly with the organization and its beneficiaries. Here are a few impactful ways to orientate and engage them:

1. Immersive Visit to SAVH
– Invite YFC teams to visit the SAVH centre for a guided tour.
– Let them experience first-hand how SAVH supports the visually impaired community.
– Include visits to key facilities such as the Low Vision Clinic, Assistive Devices Centre, and White Cane Club.

2. Experiential Learning Activities
– Organize a Dining in the Dark session where they experience what it’s like to eat without sight.
– Set up a mobility challenge where participants attempt tasks while blindfolded, simulating daily challenges faced by the visually impaired.

3. Engage in Volunteering Opportunities
– Encourage YFC members to assist in programmes such as IT training, Touch Art, or mobility support.
– Pair them with visually impaired clients to build one-on-one connections.

4. Beneficiary Stories & Sharing Sessions
– Arrange for SAVH beneficiaries to share their personal stories and how SAVH has helped them.
– Conduct a Q&A session where YFC members can ask about the challenges and aspirations of the visually impaired.

5. Co-create Awareness Campaigns
– Allow YFC teams to participate in social media campaigns promoting inclusivity.
– Guide them to develop creative fundraising ideas inspired by their experiences at SAVH.

By immersing YFC volunteers in these activities, they will develop a deeper understanding and emotional connection to SAVH’s mission, making them more passionate advocates for the cause.