This volunteer work puts the 'mad' in science

Children engaged in experiments with lead, air, and ice.

Last November 29, 55 Visa volunteers helped children from Beyond Social Services, a Singapore non-profit organisation, learn about science with a fun and educational “Mad Scientist Workshop.”

According to Rene Ho, Visa's Senior Executive, children engaged in an afternoon of Mad Science experiments with the volunteers where they experienced hands-on scientific learning about the qualities of lead, air and ice.

The hands-on workshop, which took place at a cafe in Rochester Park, was designed to help ignite children’s curiosity and sense of wonder in different fields of science. Approximately, 80 children from Beyond Social Services were present.

"Visa sponsored the activity with Beyond Social Services as part of its inaugural Visa Global Volunteer Month. Across 31 offices, 23 countries and 70+ volunteer events, Visa employees came together in November to give back to their local communities," Ho said.

He added that the Visa Volunteers program has been a core component of Visa’s Corporate Responsibility program since its launch in 2008. It helps employees around the world find local opportunities, create team events and track their volunteer hours.

In addition to providing financial assistance, Visa regularly provides opportunities for its staff to share their time through participation in numerous activities with the children who are supported by Beyond Social Services. 

As with any activity, Ho said that the most challenging part they encountered is ensuring that the children will positively benefit from the activities that are selected for them while enjoying themselves.

In the months ahead, Visa employees will be encouraged to continue to share their time with the children of Beyond Social Services. The goal for this will be to keep helping Beyond Social Services provide these children with access to educational opportunities that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to experience.