I have played an infrequent part in charity, most likely I donate money or buy fair coupons. I gave RM600 when I found my second job, it was in thanks to my joy at getting a new job. I think that was my biggest one-time donation ever. I'm planning to change jobs again, who will be my next lucky recipient?

Anyway, I am ever always keen to do my part for the underprivileged. But some fund-raising events just don't tune in to my needs. I cannot buy a handicraft that is rather simply made just in the name of charity. There are many websites available that teach how to make exquisitely beautiful handicraft from recycled materials, your resources are endless. Take a look at a few of them:
Recycled craft paper
Craft from plastic bags
Cardboard furniture

Can we integrate our resources to develop employable skills in the people at these homes? I believe whether they are mentally or physically handicapped, able but orphaned/abused, they want to find their self worth. First off, the Eden Handicap Service Centre is one such agency doing a very commendable job developing employable skills in their people.

Let me list down the things their people offer:
1) IT services - business card design, t-shirt design, invitation cards design, etc
2) Domestic/Industrial cleaning services - doing housekeeping services and paid per hour.
3) Recycling services

These are some other ideas I have:
1) The blind can have superb voices. Train them to be masters of ceremonies at weddings, parties, events. This wedding business is lucrative, I kid you not. And it's easy - the routine is invariably the same.
Also, train them to be radio deejays.
2) Handicraft work - work for people who decorate a ballroom for events. Don't ask for a high fee, but do pick up your skills. This could be flower arrangement, ribbon-work, chair sashes, etc.
3) Sewing - learn nyonya beadwork and nyonya kebaya from an experienced seamstress or from an online resource.
4) Performance - offer a performance of piano, classical musical instruments, dance or singing (for a truly talented singer only) at events such as weddings again.
5) Go to Job Enlistments page and find some jobs that can be done by your people.
6) Lawn-mowing/ weedkiller service

Let people do what they have interest in. Don't force them into handicraft just because it will feed them. Let people do what they are good at, and develop them further. Allow them to pursue various interests.

This post has been edited by breatheinout: Jun 1 2010, 04:55 PM

such a good idea...
I'll save this for my future reference

Thanks... Feel free to add more ideas.. I am sure the possibilities are endless.