Tan Poh Choo
From Small Gestures to Lasting Impact: Poh Choo’s Journey in Empowering Possibilities Through Volunteering
Last updated 17 June 2026
What began as a simple desire to better understand persons with autism spectrum disorder became a deeply meaningful volunteering journey for Ms Tan Poh Choo.
As an Assistant Director of Nursing and Advanced Practice Nurse at Changi General Hospital, Poh Choo started volunteering at St. Andrew's Autism Centre (SAAC) through initiatives under the President's Challenge. Together with fellow SingHealth colleagues, she supported programmes that empower persons with autism.
One moment, in particular, left a lasting impact on her. During a dance session at SAAC, a young girl who was initially shy gradually opened up through music. After a while, she reached out to hold Poh Choo’s hand, inviting her to join the dance.
“That simple breakthrough reminded me that empowerment often begins when someone feels seen, heard and supported,” Poh Choo shares. “It reaffirmed my belief that every individual has strengths waiting to be nurtured.”
Through activities such as drama classes, diamond art sessions and urban farming programmes, Poh Choo has witnessed how creative expression and vocational training can help individuals build confidence, purpose and independence.
“The refreshed President’s Challenge vision encourages us to move from a mindset of helping to one of empowering,” she says. “That makes all the difference.”
The partnership also became a two-way exchange of learning. Beyond volunteering, SAAC shared its expertise with CGH by conducting autism awareness sessions for healthcare workers, helping them better understand and support persons with autism. This reinforced that meaningful engagement is not just about giving, but also about learning from community partners and building a more inclusive healthcare environment together.
For Poh Choo, volunteering also shaped the way she sees care. It has taught her humility, patience and empathy, and deepened her belief that holistic care extends beyond hospital walls.
Looking ahead, Poh Choo hopes to see more organisations step forward to build long-term volunteer partnerships, where staff are empowered to contribute their time, heart and skills regularly.
In addition to donations, give your time, heart and skills,” she says. “True volunteerism is about showing up consistently and being present.— Poh Choo
By uplifting one another, we can create meaningful connections that strengthen our entire community and build a more caring and inclusive Singapore.