Stella Tan, 60

Volunteer of the Year 2010

Tell us about your involvement in RSVP.
I am in the Mentoring , Learning Journey and Senior Guiding Programmes. I was also a member of the organising committees for several RSVP events such as the Volunteer Appreciation Nite, MDOP Party and the Intergenerational Walk and Fun Day.

Does volunteer work change your lifestyle?
Definitely yes. I have the opportunity to learn new skills especially where training is provided.  I have a brand new circle of volunteer friends who are always willing to lend a helping hand and I am more energized and my days are full of exciting activities.  In fact, I am much busier now than when I was working. 
 
How often are you engaged in volunteer work in RSVP or elsewhere?
I used to volunteer on an ad hoc basis at Singapore Cancer Society and Dover Park Hospice but the timing clashed with my Mentoring days and I have therefore decided to focus my volunteering work at RSVP only. I mentor at two schools, every Monday and Wednesday, assist in the guiding activities when needed and attend ad hoc committee meetings for all the three programmes that I am involved in.
 
How do you maintain a healthy balance between volunteer work and personal life?
My committed days for volunteering work will be on Mondays and Wednesdays.  Tuesday will be for my Line Dance class.  My ukulele jam session will be on Thursday evening at Bishan CC.  I prefer to have my activities during the day and in the evening I can have quality time with my family.  Most of the meetings at RSVP will be held either on Tuesday morning/late afternoon, Thursday or Friday.  This will take top priority over my own personal activities.
 
Does your family support your involvement?
My husband is very supportive although initially he wanted me to be in the work force.  As he is currently working, he will be there for me whenever he can.
 
What do others say about your being the Volunteer of the Year?
They say "You deserve it".
 
More importantly, in your opinion, what are the attributes of a model volunteer?
You must have a genuine liking for people, a positive attitude and be persistently cheerful.  Above all else, you must have a sincere passion in volunteerism and willing to commit and sacrifice several hours to it.

What are your views on RSVP and how to take the organisation to the next stage?
I think it is the only organisation that volunteers have to pay a subscription to volunteer.  This makes us special.  I am glad that RSVP recognises our volunteer work and all its programmes will have bonding and training sessions.  Besides the annual Volunteer Appreciation Night, we should have a "Family Day" or "Sports Day" which will bond our members even closer.