Marisa’s admiration for our beneficiaries’ simplicity and intelligence strengthened her resolve to contribute. Her home bakery business donates 5% of sales to SAAC. [Right: with David Matthew Fong, head of Strategic Partnerships & Volunteer Management]
“In 2023, after more than two decades of navigating the complexities of the corporate world, I made a life-altering decision. Fuelled by a deep yearning for meaning, I chose to step away from my corporate career and embark on a journey of giving back to society. Little did I know, this decision would lead me to a path of profound fulfilment.
With newfound time on my hands, I felt compelled to offer support to disabled or underprivileged children, recognizing the importance of providing them with life skills for survival in the community. My search for volunteering opportunities led me to SAAC by chance. Hearing about SAAC from my yoga instructor, who volunteered there, piqued my interest. Despite encountering numerous barriers in other volunteer programs, I found SAAC’s welcoming approach appealing and decided to embark on my journey with them in March 2023 at SAAC Siglap.
While autism was not unfamiliar to me, having heard stories from a relative about their experiences with their autistic son, my initial steps into the Siglap center were met with trepidation. However, the warmth and guidance provided by the coaches quickly eased my concerns, allowing me to immerse myself in various tasks, from assisting with walks to accompanying clients with their lunch box collection routine.
Observing the clients’ simplicity and intelligence, especially in their artistic and puzzle-solving skills, instilled in me a deep sense of admiration and a greater resolve to contribute. Motivated by their appreciation for life’s simple joys, I embarked on initiatives such as creating a new steering wheel for a client who cherished his cardboard steering wheel despite its worn condition and repurposed my furniture and appliances to support the center’s endeavors.
In December 2023, I launched LoveBites Eats, a home bakery business with a charitable mission, dedicating 5% of sales to SAAC. The support from my customers during our Lunar New Year bakes was overwhelming, raising approximately $150, which I matched to double the contribution. In February 2024, I collaborated with SAAC to set up a donation page, inviting friends and customers to contribute towards our shared cause. While fundraising is a new endeavor for me, I am committed to starting small and aiming high. With a target of raising $1,000 by year-end, I am driven by the conviction that the true worth of this journey resides in the effort put forth.
Join me in this meaningful journey of transformation and support. Together, we can make a difference—one step, one bake, and one donation at a time. Let’s embrace and empower the incredible individuals at SAAC, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive. 🌟 #SAACCommunity #EmpowermentThroughEffort #LoveBitesEats #TransformingLives
