Christmas is all about the joy of giving — and this year, the Civil Service Club (CSC) brought that joy to life. Around 30 volunteers gathered together to spread holiday cheer at Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital, a charitable healthcare institution serving the needy and elderly.  

The Christmas Sleigh Bells and Smiles event began with a volunteer briefing to prepare participants for meaningful interactions with the residents, many of whom require specialised care. Volunteers were taught how to safely manoeuvre wheelchairs and interact with residents respectfully, ensuring the event was smooth and enjoyable for everyone.

Then came the main programme, a whirlwind of music and creativity. The Cantare Children’s Choir captivated everyone with angelic carols, while local singer-songwriter Tay Kewei added a soulful touch. Hands stayed busy too, as residents and volunteers worked side by side in a craft workshop, assembling miniature Christmas trees made from easy-to-handle materials, such as felt, and complete with LED lights.

Meaningful moments

Beyond the festive sparkle, the event created genuine connections. Volunteers wheeled residents from their accommodations to the multi-purpose hall, distributed snacks and drinks, and lent listening ears and freely gave warm smiles. The hospital’s staff ensured everyone felt supported and provided gentle guidance to volunteers when needed.

For Mr Ben Zhang, a CSC employee from the facilities team at CSC @ Changi, the experience was more than rewarding — it was humbling. “Interacting with the residents reminds me to cherish life,” he said, sharing that it was his second time volunteering at the hospital. “We will all grow old one day, and that’s the reality. Many of the residents here are in their twilight years. By being here, we fill their time with some fresh energy and bring some light to their lives.”  

Likewise, Ms Vicky Koh, a public service officer and CSC member, cherished the chance to volunteer alongside her son. “It sounded very meaningful, and I’ve always been on the lookout for an opportunity to volunteer,” she said. The thoughtful organisation and the hospital staff’s clear guidance gave both her and her son the confidence to fully participate in the activities. For Ms Koh, the experience was not only fulfilling but a heartwarming opportunity to connect with the residents and teach her son the value of kindness.    

Bringing joy through music

Music infused the morning with festive energy and heartfelt connections. The Cantare Children’s Choir enchanted the audience with renditions of familiar Christmas tunes like “Winter Wonderland” and “Silent Night”, filling the room with the warm spirit of Christmas. At the residents’ request, the programme also featured nostalgic Chinese oldies, sparking smiles and singalongs. Emcee Ms Angela Lek kept the atmosphere lively, mingling with residents and encouraging them to clap and sing along.

Singing to a senior audience carries special meaning for Ms Tay, who treasures time with her own family. “My grandparents to my three boys are still with us,” she shared. “This is a time we get to spend with each other as a three-generation family — be it travelling together or having a reunion gathering. It’s a really precious window where our kids are still young and our parents are still healthy.”

The Cantare Children’s Choir, led by Mrs Kwek-Puah Hwee Khee, brought another layer of joy to the occasion. Known for their talented singers aged 8 to 20, the choir uplifts and inspires through frequent community and fundraising performances. They put on a Christmas-themed recital for the hospital’s residents. “There are many ways to give back and singing is one of them,” said Ms Kwek-Puah. 

Performing at community events like this also provides meaningful learning experience for the young singers. “I hope they learn that even if you can’t speak the language, there are other ways to show your kindness and empathy, such as through actions,” Ms Kwek-Puah added.

Crafting connections

At the end of the event, residents proudly took home their miniature Christmas trees, adorned with blinking LED lights that shimmered like full-sized festive firs. Besides being decorations, these charming keepsakes were tangible memories of a day filled with joy and connection.

Ms Jessie Moo, one of the residents, was all smiles as she reflected on the morning’s surprises. Sitting front row for the musical performances, she revelled in the children’s choir’s melodies, moving to the rhythm and soaking up the festive energy. What began as an ordinary morning turned into a heartwarming experience, complete with a hands-on craft session that left her beaming with pride. Her completed tree now has a special spot by her bedside.

“I really enjoyed the craft workshop and spending time with the volunteers,” she said. “(I hope they) come back and visit us uncles and aunties!”

For the volunteers, too, the event offered moments of connection and purpose. “The residents needed companionship and that’s what we gave them, as well as festivities to participate in,” said Ms Koh. “I felt very fulfilled by it, and will be volunteering more with CSC when I have the time!”

The event wasn’t just a celebration — it was a shared experience that left everyone, residents and volunteers alike, with full hearts and lasting smiles.

If you’re looking to volunteer at our next event, look out for more activities for members and public service officers.  Check out our events calendar here