My journey at HCSL started in 2021 when a volunteer outside my school handed me a flyer and invited me to the centre. I was with friend then, and we decided to check out the place after school. When I first joined HCSL, I was a teenager with little confidence and would get stressed when given responsibilities. However, as time goes, I gradually overcame these challenges. 

While at HCSL, I learned the importance of respecting my elders and using various equipment, such as the sound system. The best moments I cherish the most are those bonding sessions with my friends during events, workshops and the Friday after-school hangout sessions at the centre. 

I thank Pastor Jeff and Pastor Grace for giving me opportunities to serve the community and for everything they have done for me. To my fellow youths, remember that you are never alone and cherish the friendships you have made.

I learned about the HCSL in 2021 when a staff handed me a flyer outside my school. I visited the centre with some friends after school, which was life-changing experience. Volunteering with HCSL, helped me become more confident and outgoing, and I learned many values like respect, responsibility, leadership and teamwork.

My most memorable moment with HCSL was attending the gala dinner. It was the first big event I had ever participated in, and I felt very honoured to be a part of it.

I want to thank Pastor Jeff and Pastor Grace for allowing me to serve the community and participate in these events.

For anyone who worries about the future of youths, know that HCSL is always there to support and uplift young people.

I learned about the HCSL from my friend, Cateline, who volunteers there. Before joining HCSL, I was more introverted, but I have become more confident and outspoken through participating in events and workshops. While volunteering at HCSL, I learned to trust myself and my abilities. Attending the gala dinner was a highlight for me, as it was a new experience and an honour to be part of such a significant event.

I want to thank Pastor Jeff and Pastor Grace for their guidance and support. For future youths, be true to yourself.

I first learned about HCSL through my sister who volunteered there. Often she would come home late, making me worry. She eventually brought me along to help her with volunteer work, which was how I discovered HCSL.

Before joining HCSL, I was quieter and only socialised a little outside my comfort zone. However, volunteering taught me more about myself. It helped me become more open-minded and social, which has been helpful when working on group assignments. I have learned many values, especially when working on events. The Gala Dinner ‘Ignite and Exalt with Hope’ was a particularly impactful event, teaching patience and how to cooperate with different people. It changed how I see things in life, and I am grateful for the experience.

My most memorable moment with HCSL was my first volunteering experience. It felt like stepping into a new world. It was refreshing to do something new and meaningful, rather than the same old thing of going to school and going back home.

I want to thank Pastor Grace and Pastor Jeff for helping me become the person I am today and for teaching me valuable lessons that I use daily.

Some people may hesitate to volunteer because of the fear of interacting with strangers and the perceived exhaustion of volunteering. However, at HCSL has staff and other youth volunteers to guide and support you through any obstacles. It is an enjoyable and fulfilling experience that I highly recommend to others.

I became a volunteer at HCLA through Toa Payoh Methodist Church. Pastor Jeff and Pastor Grace visited the church with some staff from HCSL. He approached me and shared about HCSL and the work they do in the community. Intrigued, I volunteered as I had some free time to spare. My experience at HCSL opened my eyes to the issues that many teenages face. I learned the importance of having an open mind, even if we come from diverse backgrounds. While mistakes cannot be undone, we always have the chance to turn over a new leaf. I am grateful to Pastor Jeff for listening to my complaints and frustrations and checking in with me occasionally. 

I would also like to thank Pastor Grace for her support and thoughtfulness towards all the volunteers, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment. To my peers, living your life to the fullest and being true to yourself is crucial. Do not let other dictate who you should be or what you should do. Stay positive and persevere through tough times, always have an open mind and seek help when needed.

In 2016, when I was called to the police station, I was not surprised because I had been in trouble before. My life took a turn when my mum sought Pastor Jeff’s help, and he offered me a volunteer role at HCSL.

Fast forward to 2019, I was in trouble again and was placed on probation. Despite multiple warnings, I continued to breach the curfew. Pastor Jeff intervened again and spoke to me about the consequence. I had to serve ten days in detention. This experience made me appreciate the freedom I had taken for granted.

After my probation ended, HCSL offered me the Better Barista holistic training programme. The course sparked my interest in coffee making, and I discovered a new passion for an alternative art form.

I now volunteer with HCSL in my free time, and it has taught me valuable communication and leadership skills. Pastor Jeff and Pastor Grace are kind and amazing people with vast experiences whom I aspire to learn from.

Thanks to HCSL, I live a happier, more grateful, and more appreciative life.

I was a very rebellious kid, always getting into trouble at school. This eventually led me to commit crimes at the young age of 13. As a result, I was sentenced to a 30-month probation. However, my life turned for the better when I was introduced to HCSL, at the end of my probation.

Since then my path of transfiguration has started, and I have changed for the better. Today, I am a navy regular with the National Diving Unit (NDU).

As a volunteer counsellor at HCSL, my experience has been enriching and rewarding. Journeying with individuals through their challenging times had been an honour and privilege. I am grateful for the opportunity to partner with HCSL.

Although I joined with minimal real world experience, the HCSL team has been incredibly supportive and encouraging. They helped me develop the confidence to believe I can positively impact people’s lives with the right heart and attitude.

I am excited to be a part of HCSL’s continued growth and impact as they roll out more initiatives and partnerships to support the community and bring hope to more individuals and families. I look forward to continuing my journey with HCSL and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

I still remember vividly my first volunteering experience as a teenager. I was unsure of what to expect and what I could do to help. However, I had an unwavering determination to contribute towards a better tomorrow. Since then, I held on to this belief that volunteering is one of the most powerful ways to impact others positively.

Today, I am proud to be a volunteer with HCSL, where I teach first aid and participate in fundraising efforts for inmates. Being a part of HCSL has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. I am thankful for the opportunity to make a meaning fun impact in people’s lives.

I was to encourage others to join us to make a difference and positively change society.