Vertical Kampong

“Vertical Kampong (Vertical Village) aims to help build connected and mutually supportive communities in our neighbourhoods by creating platforms that enhance informal volunteering activities within the neighbourhood.”  This program recognizes that a vast majority of Singapore residents live in high-rises and that there is a need to establish a sense of community within these vertical neighborhoods.  The program was established and administered by the National Volunteering and Philanthropy Center (NVPC).  I had an opportunity to spend two days at the NVPC offices attending the Global Corporate Volunteer Council meeting.  There I learned of how this initiative works on getting residents to meet one another and mutually support the efforts of the collective community.  A unique program that can be replicated in cities around the world where floors and elevators often create barriers to socialization and the ability to neighbor.  NVPC is the organizing body for the 2011 International Association of Volunteer Efforts World Conference.  One of their programs is Singapore Cares, an affiliate of the Points of Light Institute’s Hands On Network.  www.nvpc.org.sg