TOUCH Character Development - "My mother doesn't worry about my studies now because I have learnt to be responsible."
(July 2010)
"My mother doesn't worry about my studies now because I have learnt to be responsible."
Before Hakim was referred by his school to TOUCH Character Development (TCD), when he was in Primary Five, he was a boy who lacked confidence and was uninterested in his studies. Sometimes, he would also get into trouble in school due to his behaviour especially in managing his anger. He would also keep his feelings to himself.
Financially, his family faced challenges and was struggling to pay their bills. Sometimes, Hakim would have no money for recess in school. Due to their financial situation, they had to move house four times. Each time they move, the family would have to undergo the stress of finding another place to stay and the hassle of moving their belongings.
When Hakim joined TCD’s Aspire Club which reaches out to at-risk children, TCD staff, volunteer coaches and befrienders conducted individual and group sessions with him and other children to promote good character values. They also visited his home to understand more about the family’s situation. To better prepare Hakim for his PSLE, TCD’s volunteer tutor coached him in his studies. TCD also helped the family apply for the Love Singapore Fund, a short-term financial assistance scheme, as well as regular support from a donor, especially during the period when Hakim’s stepfather was unemployed.
Hakim’s efforts paid off when he passed his PSLE and managed to enter the Normal Academic stream. His family was overjoyed! Now, in Secondary Two, Hakim has matured and is a self-motivated boy who would take responsibility for his studies. He even told his mother not to worry about his studies as he will continue to do his part and try his best. His relationship with his parents has also improved as they see the positive change in him. Hakim has also become more self controlled and rational in his thinking. For example, in a recent camp organised by TCD, when his friends were not paying attention, Hakim told them to stop and listen to instructions! The family is also now much more stable financially with job, housing and education in place. Thanks to TCD, Hakim is now on the right track and has a bright future ahead of him.
