New volunteer youth corps to provide positive impact to S'pore and the world

A volunteer youth corps will be set up in the future to match youths with critical community needs and to provide with them resources and funding, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in his National Day Rally speech on Sunday.

As Singapore reaches a juncture where there is a need for a more active community, PM Lee laid out the plans for the volunteer youth corps, noting the increasing number of young volunteers in the community.

"You are our future, you're idealistic, full of energy and passion," said PM Lee, as he outlined plans for the youth corps to "go forth and change Singapore and the world for the better", adding that the government will provide more assistance to those who are willing to serve.

Young Singaporeans, especially those from the ITEs, polytechnics and universities will have opportunities to embark on overseas community service projects to make a difference, with mentors to provide guidance for the youths, as well as to match youths with critical needs in the community.

Besides disbursing funding and grants for projects, allowances will also be provided to those who intend to contribute full time.

grongloh@sph.com.sg