Our Strength in Community series celebrates donors and volunteers whose care and contributions fuel our mission. In this second part of the series, please meet Mr Ong Lye Huat, a donor whose journey shows us how steady acts of care can grow into lasting support.
The pickleball courts were filled with steady stream of spectators as the game and fundraising event set to start. Mr Ong watched the players take their positions, grateful to see colleagues and their families showing up to show support for a cause that had grown close to his heart.
This pickleball competition that took place on 13 October at the Singapore Polytechnic Graduates’ Guild was initiated by Mr Ong to raise funds for people with disabilities whom SPD serves. Participants were encouraged to contribute any amount they wished, and many others chose to donate even when they were not competing.
When exploring ideas for this fundraising initiative, he decided on pickleball after noticing that there were not many fundraisers built around this sport.
“Unlike other sports that need expensive equipment or advanced skills, pickleball is relatively inexpensive and beginner friendly. This means more people are likely to join, boosting participation and fundraising potential,” explained Mr Ong.
With that in mind, he secured three courts and brought in coaches to guide the participants.
“Many participants had never played pickleball before, so seeing them pick up the basics quickly and laugh through the learning curve was a highlight,” said Mr Ong. He also credited the coaches for their encouraging presence and creating a lively atmosphere that helped everyone settle in.
Another moment which stood out for Mr Ong was how the spectators cheered when a beginner scored their first point. This perfectly captured the inclusive experience he had hoped to create.
How a single gesture grew into more
This fundraiser marked another milestone in Mr Ong’s journey with SPD as a donor, which first began five years ago when he sponsored tea-break for the seniors at SPD@Toa Payoh.
Seeing how his contributions brightened their day deepened the 63-year-old’s desire to do more.
From there, his giving grew into steady donations that helped sustain our programmes for people with disabilities.
“Seeing stories of individuals gaining independence and confidence through SPD’s programmes gave me a clear sense that my support contributes to real, life-changing outcomes,” said Mr Ong. “It’s inspiring to know that even small contributions help create opportunities and empower people to lead fulfilling lives.”
As his involvement grew, Mr Ong began thinking about how to extend the impact beyond his own giving. That was when he approached his employer to explore the possibility of a 1-for-1 donation match.
The idea garnered support, and soon every contribution he made was matched, doubling the help extended to our beneficiaries.
No beginning is ever too small
Looking back, Mr Ong sees his contributions as a journey – one that grew naturally over time and led him to unexpected places, including rallying others through a pickleball fundraiser.
He believes anyone can start their giving journey, no matter how small the first step may seem.
“Every contribution, no matter the size, can make a real difference. It’s not just about the amount; it’s about the impact. Every donation helps create opportunities, supports meaningful programmes, and brings people together for a greater cause,” shared Mr Ong.
His encouragement echoes the spirit of his own journey: kindness grows when it is shared, and each act of giving can inspire the next.