Singapore Club Raises $1.97M for 14 Charities

When the Singapore Island Country Club gathered on August 26, members weren't just celebrating another successful fundraiser. They were continuing a 54-year tradition that has now channeled more than $27 million to people in need.

This year's May Day Charity raised $1.97 million for 14 organizations supporting communities across Singapore. The campaign, themed "Uplifting the Underserved," brought together club members, staff, and donors through events held between April and June 2026.

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam attended the flagship gala dinner on May 1. Throughout the spring, the club organized charity golf tournaments, racquet sports events, aquatics activities, and a silent auction to build momentum.

The biggest innovation this year was the "Donate & Drive" campaign. For every $20 donated to President's Challenge, contributors received one entry to win an electric vehicle worth more than $124,000.

That single initiative raised nearly $95,000 and opened fundraising beyond the club's traditional membership base. The campaign invited the general public to participate, turning a country club tradition into a city-wide effort.

The Ripple Effect

What started in 1972 with a group of golfers wanting to give back has grown into something much bigger. The annual charity now involves hundreds of participants across dozens of activities, supporting more than 100 organizations over five decades.

This year's 14 beneficiaries include groups providing legal services, youth development, elder care, counseling, and community support. Organizations like Ambulance Wish Singapore, which grants final wishes to terminally ill patients, and Nulife Care & Counselling Services will use the funds to expand their reach.

Club Captain Lam Zhiqun emphasized that the relationships continue beyond the check presentation. Members connect with beneficiaries throughout the year, including at the club's Christmas Light-Up in November.

Applications are already open for organizations hoping to benefit from the 2027 campaign. The 56th edition of May Day Charity promises to build on a tradition that turns social connections into social impact, one dollar and one relationship at a time.