SINGAPORE - The President's Challenge saw a record number of volunteers last year, with 10,000 offering their time at various volunteer events, an increase of 10 per cent from 2014.
A record 64 organisations, including the Lee Foundation and Singapore Press Holdings, helped to raise close to $10.5 million last year, about half a million more than in 2014.
The amount raised will be matched dollar for dollar by the Government under the Community Chest's Care and Share movement. The Community Chest is the fund-raising and engagement arm of the National Council of Social Service. The funds will benefit 87 charities and voluntary welfare organisations for the disadvantaged.
More than 50 fund-raising events were held last year, including the CapitaLand #100KHopeHours Challenge, which raised $300,000, and City Developments Limited's Soul & Sensibilities charity art exhibition, which raised $550,000 through the sale of artworks and books.
At an appreciation ceremony for volunteers, sponsors and donors at the Istana on Wednesday (Jan 27), President Tony Tan Keng Yam noted that the President's Challenge has become a "wide ranging movement" that includes pre-schoolers and seniors.
"Your active participation makes our nation a better home or all, and Singapore a more cohesive and inclusive society," he said.
