More than 600 individuals and corporates came together to raise more than $500,000 for persons with disabilities and young persons with aspirations in the arts at The Blue Charity Gala.

SINGAPORE, 30 August 2019 – Themed Stand By Me, The Blue Charity Gala held at Resorts World Sentosa on 30 August saw more than 600 individuals and corporates coming together in support of SPD and The Business Times Budding Artists Fund (BT BAF).

Local disability charity SPD and not-for-profit arts organisation The RICE Company Limited (TRCL), which manages BT BAF, joined hands for the first time to raise more than $500,000 for persons with disabilities and young persons with aspirations in the arts.

Mr Heng Swee Keat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance graced the event as the Guest-of-Honour.

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) Band lent its support through its performance of classic Broadway tunes, as well as a collaborative segment between the band and beneficiaries from BT BAF. The event also featured guest performances by Adelyn Koh, an aspiring singer with visual impairment, and veteran vocalist Robert Fernando, also added glamour to the dinner.

Mr Tan Puay Kern, Chairman of The Blue Charity Gala Organising Committee expressed his gratitude on behalf of the organising committee, “We are deeply grateful to all the individuals and corporates for supporting both causes and all who have helped in one way or other in making this fundraising dinner a success. We hope to forge more partnerships in the future and to help more less-privileged individuals fulfil their aspirations.”

Certis, a leading advanced integrated security provider, supported The Blue Charity Gala as its Diamond Donor. As part of its ongoing commitment to support persons with disabilities and disadvantaged children, Certis employees volunteered their time to help out at a packing activity organised by SPD prior to the event. In addition, Certis performed a rendition of ‘Stand By Me’ which was posted as a video on social media to raise awareness for the cause. Their employees were also involved in the fund-raising activities at the gala.

SPD, as the co-organiser of The Blue Charity Gala, was grateful for the strong support from all donors. “The donations will go a long way in transforming the lives of persons with disabilities and provide more opportunities in the arts for young people. Thank you for your generosity and we look forward to your continuous support,” said Mr Abhimanyau Pal, Chief Executive Officer, SPD.

Added Mr Alvin Tay, who sits on the Board of The RICE Company Limited that manages BT BAF, and is also the co-chair of the SPD committee which oversees this fundraising dinner, “We are heartened to see various organisations and individuals rallying to support the artistic passions of the young people as well as people with disabilities. By coming together as a community, we are able to make a difference in the lives of others and enable them to fulfil their aspirations.”