Over 100 Volunteers Unite in Ma On Shan to Support Caregivers and Vulnerable Groups
Bastillepost · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago5 MIN
Summary
The Agency for Volunteer Service (AVS) Outstanding Volunteer Network (OVN) successfully staged its 'Joyful Volunteer Service' local program 'Take a Breath with You' caregivers' fun day in Ma On Shan last weekend. More than 100 volunteers and performers gathered at Heng On Community Centre and the Salvation Army Heng On Integrated Vocational Rehabilitation Services to deliver warmth and support to vulnerable community members. The event featured diverse entertainment including singing, dancing, instrumental performances, magic shows, and police dog demonstrations, while caregivers were given a much-needed respite through health screenings and social activities.
Key Points
- Event titled 「傑義服務多開心」本地服務項目「同你唞一唞」照顧者同樂日 organized by AVS OVN
- Activities included 「傑義服務馬鞍FUN」 and 「探訪恆安心連心」 held at Heng On Community Centre and Salvation Army facilities
- Morning event attracted approximately 200 participants with 70+ volunteers performing singing, dancing, magic, and police dog demonstrations
- Hong Kong Police Volunteer Services arranged retired police dogs for interaction; Hong Kong Jockey Club Cantonese Opera Troupe performed classic songs
- AVS Director Cheah Suk-mui shared over 50 years of volunteering experience; singer Kandy Kwan performed 'Unreserved Love' to honor caregivers
- Afternoon activities involved 40+ individuals with intellectual disabilities in football, handicrafts, singing, and animal-assisted therapy
- Caregivers received blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol checks during the respite program
Why It Matters
This volunteer initiative addresses the often-overlooked needs of caregivers who dedicate themselves to supporting vulnerable family members, while simultaneously fostering community inclusion for people with disabilities, mental health recovery needs, and physical challenges. The event's emphasis on providing caregivers with health screenings and a temporary break demonstrates Hong Kong's growing recognition of the importance of supporting those who provide essential care within the community .
This volunteer initiative addresses the often-overlooked needs of caregivers who dedicate themselves to supporting vulnerable family members, while simultaneously fostering community inclusion for people with disabilities, mental health recovery needs, and physical challenges. The event's emphasis on providing caregivers with health screenings and a temporary break demonstrates Hong Kong's growing recognition of the importance of supporting those who provide essential care within the community .