The year-end season of giving is around the corner. The Straits Times hopes to do its part to support groups and individuals who do good, by spreading the word on what they do and what they believe in.
For the third year running, the newspaper would like to invite those who are committed to a cause to write in. As part of The Straits Times Causes Week from Dec 8 to 14, the paper will showcase some of the inspiring stories.
These could involve a good Samaritan who goes out of his way to help a stranger in trouble, a group of like-minded friends committed to a worthy cause, or a charity or social enterprise that needs a little help to extend its reach.
By spotlighting these causes, the paper hopes to inspire others to contribute to these projects or even start their own.
Like in previous years, the paper also hopes to feature lesser-known groups that may need help to get the word out on their work.
Straits Times editor Warren Fernandez said: "There are many people who give their time, talent and resources to worthy projects and causes to help others throughout the year.
"At this time, ahead of the festive season, we at The Straits Times think it is meaningful to devote some space to celebrate their good work. Hopefully it inspires readers to join in too."
Last year, more than 110 people and groups wrote in to the paper for its second Causes Week. Of the 14 groups or individuals featured, some have since expanded their projects, or embarked on new challenges.
Singaporean Julian Tan, 41, who was featured last year for raising funds to build a school in the Philippines to help survivors of Typhoon Haiyan, received about $450,000 in pledges and donations after others read about his efforts. "Causes Week helped me to get the word out and people began to get in touch to volunteer, donate or tap their networks to link us up with people with the resources or expertise to move the project forward," he said.
If you would like to be a part of this year's Causes Week, please write to stcauses2014@sph. com.sg by Nov 26.
