Inspiring Initiative in Boon Lay

It's a typical bustling evening in Boon Lay, Singapore, where the streets are filled with individuals hurrying home after a long day. However, beyond the routine activities lies an inspiring initiative that is making waves in the community – the Tak Takut Kids Club (TTKC), founded by the passionate Shiyun Lin.

A Vibrant Hub of Creativity and Community

Inside the club's vibrant premises, a flurry of creativity and companionship is taking place. One room resonates with the excitement of children rehearsing for an outdoor theater performance that will soon charm audiences in the local playground. Nearby, in the community kitchen, kids are crafting sandwiches, ensuring they have a hearty meal, while a few others are tending to a flourishing community garden, planting ingredients like curry leaves and papayas.

Roots in 3Pumpkins

TTKC is rooted in the mission of 3Pumpkins, a non-profit arts organization that aims to create a nurturing space for children from troubled backgrounds. Lin, a former arts producer with 14 years of experience, envisioned this safe haven after keenly observing the struggles of children in her area. Driven by a deep empathy for their situations, she dedicated herself to providing an environment where these children could not only play but also grow holistically.

A Transformative Journey

Lin's journey into this transformative cause began in 2016 after taking a step back from her entertainment career. Intrigued and moved by the realities of children living in rental flats, she immersed herself in their world, spending weeks observing and connecting with them at local playgrounds. Over time, she noticed distinct groups among them: those living in such flats, children without stable caregivers, and those battling mental health issues exacerbated by isolation and digital dependency.

Creating a Safe Community

These children, desperate for belonging, often found unsafe solace in the streets. Motivated to change this narrative, Lin aimed to create a "good gang" of support, fostering a safe community where kids could gather, learn, and thrive together rather than engaging in risky lifestyles.

Expansion and Vision

In 2019, as TTKC expanded, Lin realized the importance of a designated space. Inspired by a Chinese animated film and her son’s fascination with pumpkins, she named her organization 3Pumpkins. This marked a pivotal moment – she secured a small space to engage children more consistently.

Arts Education for All

Her mission was simple yet profound: provide arts education and creative opportunities that were accessible to all children, irrespective of their socioeconomic background. Lin believed that the benefits of the arts should not be exclusive to those who could afford to travel to metropolitan areas but should be woven into the very fabric of the communities they serve.

Resilience Through the Pandemic

Despite the setbacks imposed by the pandemic, Lin’s resolve strengthened as she influenced conversations with governmental bodies. With renewed support, TTKC now operates out of two spacious units, facilitating a breadth of programs that enrich the lives of over 200 children. Through art workshops, cooking classes, and gardening, children learn not just skills but also values of responsibility and community.

The Heart of the Space

TTKC operates with a firm belief in its purpose. Shiyun emphasizes that the children are the heart of the space. "This is their area," she explains. "They’re the ones creating joy and ideas; our role is to provide them with support and validation."

Vision for the Future

Today, 3Pumpkins boasts a dedicated team whose commitment to safeguarding and uplifting these kids is palpable. Lin envisions an expansion into neighboring districts, reinforcing the organization's influence and reach. She shares her metaphor of the ocean: "Our club acts as a bridge between vulnerable children and existing support systems, helping them navigate through life's challenges until they find the help they truly need."

A Beacon of Hope

From nurturing budding talents to promoting emotional well-being, TTKC is more than just a community club; it's a lifeline redefining what it means to feel safe and supported. In a world where many at-risk children are often overlooked, Tak Takut Kids Club stands as a beacon of hope, inviting young hearts to come, play, and flourish.

Looking Ahead

Is this the future of community support? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – change is happening, and it's happening right here!