New NCSS chair calls for stronger partnerships to tackle Singapore’s growing social challenges

RETHINKING FUNDING MODELS

Against a tougher fundraising environment, Mr Vijayendran said charities should also rethink how they are funded and how they work with one another.

Rather than expanding beyond their core expertise, organisations should focus on their strengths while partnering with others across the ecosystem to deliver better outcomes.

“I think we need to look at this aspect in a more creative way and what that will entail is that we need to think about different ways of funding, different types of funding models,” said Mr Vijayendran.

“If that means partnerships that involve others in the ecosystem, so that rather than mission creep, I play to strengths – this is my core programme. I’m going to ensure that I get funding, and this is the niche, and this is what delivers results.”

Looking ahead, he hopes to see more partnerships between organisations.

“The hope is that tangibly we will see more tie-ups, more partnerships and that we can measure this aspect,” he added.

“But at the same time, I would also want to see more evidence-based research and an even greater maturation, where we see translational research, where Singapore becomes also able to share some thought leadership with our neighbours.”

Ultimately, he said the sector’s greatest strength lies in its people.

“This is a high calling,” Mr Vijayendran said of social service professionals. “It involves sacrifice. It involves service. It involves stewardship, but you were called. You were meant to be in the sector for this time to make a difference.”