Beneficiaries take to the runway at APSN fashion fundraiser
Proceeds will go towards supporting its workshop, including vocational training, job coaching and employment support services
TWENTY-SIX individuals with special needs walked down the catwalk at APSN’s Charity Fashion Gala at Marina Bay Sands last Friday (Dec 13), to the applause of about 290 guests.
The models, beneficiaries of the social service agency, wore outfits and accessories made from upcycled materials created by fashion-design students from Temasek Polytechnic.
The gala is among a number of fundraising events being lined up to raise S$350,000. At a live auction held at the gala, a football signed by David Beckham, a Marina Bay Sands ambassador, had a starting bid of S$888, but was eventually sold for S$3,888.
A silent auction is accepting bids until Jan 10, 2025, for items such as artwork, hotel stays and dining vouchers – including one for a year’s worth of Swensen’s mega sundae, the EarthQuake.
Proceeds from all these fundraisers will go to the APSN Centre for Adults – a sheltered workshop that provides vocational training to individuals with mild intellectual disabilities, and helps them find employment.
Philip Li, principal centre lead at the workshop, told The Business Times that the funds will be used to support the hub’s operations. This includes its four-phase vocational training curriculum, job coaching, as well as pro bono employment support services for alumni.
Florence Hui, who has a mild intellectual disability and has benefited from the centre’s employment skills programme, now has a job folding clothes and checking prices at clothing retailer Uniqlo. She said in a panel at the gala that she grew in confidence after picking up skills in the programme.
Shirlene Tan, a job coach at APSN, said that on top of preparing its trainees for the workforce, the centre also works on employer relations to ensure successful job placements. The centre has discussions with employers to understand their expectations, needs, and whether they are interested in job designing.
Social service agency APSN operates four special education schools, a student care centre and a hub for working professionals, in addition to its sheltered workshop for adults.
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