Fireworks Outing!

Well, this is the first outing of the semester, of course must post something right? Ha however I don't have any photos from the outing, will appreciate if any kind-hearted souls can upload some interesting photos if you have, thanks! :)

It had really been a tiring day for all residents and volunteers, having to walk long distances and finish the tasks in Suntec City. Nevertheless, it was definitely fulfilling as we could see how happy the residents were when they shopped around in Suntec City, played with the sparklers and watched the fireworks. And something to share from my side as I arrived at MINDSville early today - for the first time, we had all residents dressed up properly (and perhaps even beautifully), getting ready with their bags and waiting patiently for volunteers in level 1. They were all prepared to go out and were so thrilled when they finally saw volunteers streaming in. It had been quite some time since I had seen them in this kind of enthusiasm and the best of all thing is to see the cute and bubbly Tat Hiang finally regained his freedom and able to move around freely on his own again :).

Due to the heavy and relentless rain, we were forced to execute the wet weather plan, but that did not diminish the eagerness of the residents as we still proceeded to Suntec City for some photo-taking tasks. The tasks were simple and each group was instructed to look for certain items and take a group photo with them. It was a simple game, yet it fulfulled the main purpose of bringing the residents to experience touring and shopping around in the shopping mall. I was tagging the green group most of the time and was really glad that Kong Pok was in really good mood during the outing and Moi Kwee amazed me with her extra politeness and courtesy as she squeezed through the crowds.

After completing all the tasks, everyone rested and had their dinners at the Koi Pond area. Some origami and colouring session was also conducted to occupy the residents as we scouted for a place to watch firworks. Thanks to Ken for his past experience in working in Shaw Towers that we found a wonderful spot to view fireworks as it was not crowded and we could still play the sparklers in the open area.

At about 9.15pm, the fireworks show started and it was quite consolating that we were able to catch most of the fireworks display. The outing was not such a letdown afterall! Even though we did not get the best view like in last year, everyone was still very pleased and was practically paying total attention to the fireworks show for that few mintues. In the midst of everything, Tat Hiang's sudden action of taking his shoes and socks off and running to catch the fireworks did leave some memories in some of the volunteers too.

Although it was a long day for everyone, I believe there is something memorable about this outing to the residents and volunteers. To most residents, they will always remember that we have brought them out to watch the fireworks every year and will tell us how beautiful the fireworks show is when we ask them next time. To the volunteers, and especially those new volunteers, I think we can learn and realise how joy can be so simple as bringing the residents out of the home and spending a day in a shopping mall. A lot more interesting and exciting events will be coming up that will further enhance the experience in volunteering with the Intellectually Disabled, so hope that we can still get good response from the volunteers again. Afterall, we cannot accomplish all these without the help and contributions from all volunteers. :)

-Pauline