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“Strength in Every Story, Growth in Every Generation.”

On 5 September 2026, Furama RiverFront was filled with warmth, nostalgia and gratitude as Yong-en Care Centre celebrated its 30th Anniversary Luncheon. The event was both a heartfelt tribute and a celebration of three decades of serving communities in Chinatown and beyond. Framed by the anniversary theme, “Strength in Every Story, Growth in Every Generation,” the afternoon honoured the many individuals, past and present, who have contributed to making Yong-en what it is today.

The milestone event commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Lawrence Che, Vice-President of the Management Committee and Chairperson of the 30th Anniversary Committee. Mr Che reflected on the true essence of Yong-en’s thirty-year journey. He noted that while numbers and metrics matter, the real story of Yong-en is found in human connection—in the senior who finds companionship, the caregiver who finds support, and the child who finds a champion. He recounted how simple acts of kindness by members of Fairfield Methodist Church in the 1980s blossomed into an official charity registered in 1996. Over the decades, Yong-en has continued to evolve in response to the changing needs of the community. From its early roots in providing practical support to families in Chinatown, its services have expanded to include dementia care, active ageing and frailty prevention, home-based nursing and medical care, support for caregivers and families, and the development of children and youths. Through each season, the programmes may have changed, but the commitment has remained the same — to understand emerging needs and respond in ways that improve lives and strengthen the community.

Following his address, Reverend Wendy Tay, Pastor-in-charge of Fairfield Methodist Church, led the hall in a Thanksgiving Prayer, setting a reverent tone for the afternoon’s proceedings.

A key highlight of the luncheon was a lively intergenerational dialogue that connected Yong-en’s founding roots with its vibrant future. Service users turned Youth volunteers Insyirah and Christopher interviewed Yong-en Advisor Mr. Benjamin Chan, who served as the agency’s very first Executive Director. With lighthearted charm and deep insight, Mr. Chan shared memories of navigating cultural shocks in Chinatown during the early days, transitioning informal neighbourly visits into a structured social service centre, and taking a leap of faith to establish dementia care in 2002 despite widespread scepticism. His reflections offered everyone present a vivid reminder of the faith, grit, and vision that established the foundation of Yong-en’s work today.

As guests enjoyed their meal, the program unveiled Yong-en’s new corporate video showcase. The video highlighted the concept of the Tingkat, a fitting symbol of Yong-en’s 30-year journey — a simple vessel of care, filled by some, carried by others, and brought to those who need it.

For 30 years, donors and partners have helped fill the Tingkat with resources, expertise and generosity, while staff and volunteers have helped carry it into the community. Within it are the many ways Yong-en serves — caring for seniors and persons with dementia, supporting families, and nurturing children and youths.

Many hands fill the Tingkat. Many hands carry it. Together, we bring care where it is needed — improving lives and impacting communities.

To mark the occasion, Executive Director Mr Tim Lee presented the actual Tingkat featured in the video to Mdm Pearlie Ow, wife of one of Yong-en’s key founders, the late Rev (Dr) Clarence Lim. Current and past leaders then joined on stage for the cake-cutting ceremony and a group photograph, celebrating three decades of collective leadership and service.

Beyond the main programme, guests enjoyed a range of activities throughout the afternoon. These included specially curated merchandise, a photo competition, a Wishing Wall and a mini art gallery featuring original works for sale. Singapore Polytechnic students also showcased their final-year project — an interactive, intergenerational walking tour through
the heart of Chinatown. Guests took home commemorative tote bags containing postcards designed by local artist Kate (@thequirkate), helping to carry the Yong-en story beyond the celebration.

In his closing address, Executive Director Mr. Tim Lee reflected on legacy and stewardship. He shared that while the names of those who contributed to Yong-en may fade with time, their legacy lives on when the mission continues. Looking towards the next 30 years, he called on everyone to remain faithful stewards, so that future generations inherit a Yong-en that is stronger, more impactful and ready to serve the needs of their time.

The 30th Anniversary celebration was ultimately a reminder that Yong-en’s story has never been written by one person or one generation. It has been shaped by all who have walked alongside us — those who have given, served, partnered, led and cared.

And as Yong-en begins its next chapter, there is room for many more hands to fill the Tingkat, carry it, and bring care to where it is needed.

Members of the public who wish to journey with Yong-en into its next chapter can explore opportunities to volunteer, partner or support our work by contacting the Yong-en team at yong-encommunity@yong-en.org.sg or +65 6225 1002.

View photos here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set?vanity=yongencares&set=a.1398658529113934

Watch highlight video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rQRufu4P4Q