OVE is thrilled to share with you our incredible pre-trip training with Eco Vietnam and our LCIP back at Bright Hill Evergreen Home. Our journey began with a deep dive into the local culture and an understanding of the enriching volunteering opportunity we will be embarking on with EcoVietnam. Join me as we recount the unforgettable moments that filled our hearts with joy and appreciation.
Volunteering at Bright Hill Evergreen Home
Exploring Cultural Diversity:
Our pre-trip cultural learning began on a Saturday morning, where we spoke and interacted with the kids and facilitators from EcoVietnam. Our cultural learning session with Eco Vietnam was a gateway to the captivating world of Vietnam. We discovered the history behind EcoVietnam and how it shaped many village children into extraordinary young adults today.
Our Zoom session with EcoVietnam
Alongside, with the help of the translators, we were able to share more about the way of life in Singapore with the children via Zoom. By the end of the session, we fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other's cultures and lifestyles.
A fruitful day with meetings & celebrations
Volunteering at Bright Hill Evergreen Home:
After an enlightening cultural sharing, we eagerly embarked on our volunteering journey at Bright Hill.
Wet Weather Activity: Mahjong Bingo
The day kicked off with a lively game of Mahjong Bingo, which filled the air with laughter and excitement. Mahjong Bingo is a game which is similar to the normal bingo game. However, each space was included with a word representing each type of mahjong tile, for example, “Ten Thousand” (一万), “Whiteboard” (白板), etc. There was also a spinning wheel with the represented Mahjong Tiles. Each elderly was given a piece of Mahjong Bingo game paper, and their goal was to strike out the tile name that appeared on the wheel, and then shout “Bingo” when they formed a line. As we bonded with the seniors, we were humbled by their wisdom and energy. It was heartwarming to witness their joy as they marked off numbers on their cards, creating a vibrant atmosphere of shared happiness.
An enjoyable session of Mahjong Bingo
Grocery Shopping / Meals Purchase
Our team also assisted in getting lunch for the elderlies. We ensured their needs are met by providing nutritious and delicious lunches tailored to their dietary requirements. Each member of the grocery shopping/meals purchase team was assigned to each elderly to record the list of meals and groceries they wanted. Afterwards, the team was further split into 2 sub-teams, in which one purchased lunch meals in the shopping mall’s food court, and another one went grocery shopping at Fairprice Supermarket.
After purchasing, the team brought the groceries and meals back to the elderly in the multi-Purpose Hall, and interacted with them while they were enjoying their meal. We understand the importance of a warm and inviting dining experience, so our team creates a welcoming atmosphere where residents can gather and enjoy their meals together.
Wet Weather Activity: DIY Toilet Roll Shaker
The highlight of the day was our creative upcycling project. Where the elderly were given toilet paper rolls and decorative materials to create their own DIY shaker, allowing them to use the shaker as a musical instrument while singing karaoke and listening to music during the activity. A demonstration was given to show a step-by-step procedure to create a DIY shaker. The assigned volunteers patiently guided the elderly on the process of the making, such as pouring of green beans into the instrument, as well as decorating the shaker. With the help of the seniors, we transformed humble toilet rolls into vibrant music shakers. Through teamwork and a dash of creativity, we converted waste into musical instruments that brought smiles and laughter to all.
Wet Weather Activity: Karaoke Session
As the day drew to a close, we gathered for a memorable karaoke session. It was a chance for all of us to let loose, showcase our talents, and create a bond through music. The atmosphere was electric as voices filled the air, creating a sense of unity and togetherness that transcended language barriers.
In the midst of making music shaker
Our member's experience:
It was a very fulfilling experience to be able to interact with the elderlies, who were extremely caring and enthusiastic in nature. Through this short LCIP, I have learned many valuable lessons such as the importance of adaptation and teamwork.
- Sin Bei
Together with the members, we assisted the elderly in getting their lunch and groceries. It was a rewarding experience as we created a seamless and meaningful shopping experience that fostered a sense of teamwork and connection.
- Jin Wen
I felt that July's LCIP went smoothly despite the sudden change to a wet weather contingency plan. The 2 mahjong bingo games seemed to have resonated best with the elderly, and personally, I had a lot of fun watching the elderly I was in charge of win a game. I think there should be more bingo games in the future :D
- Zhe Yin
Conclusion:
Our pre-trip cultural learning experience with EcoVietnam and the fulfilling volunteering day at Bright Hill Evergreen Home were profound stepping stones on our path to cross-cultural understanding and compassion.
As we eagerly anticipate our upcoming overseas volunteering expedition, let us carry these cherished memories and lessons with us. May they guide us to embrace diversity, foster empathy, and make a positive impact on the lives we touch during our journey. Together, we can create lasting change and build a world where cultural exchange and compassion thrive.
Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on our next adventure in Vietnam!
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