This World Red Cross Day, Chern Ling Boey-Lee shows us that humanitarian work doesn’t always begin with a crisis. Sometimes, it starts with a simple decision to step forward.
In just two years, Chern Ling Boey-Lee has given nearly 1,200 hours of her time to the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) — the equivalent of 50 full days.
Not because she had to, but because she chose to.
It began with a chance encounter at a mobile blood drive, where she and her daughter paused to take a closer look. What stayed with them was a simple realisation: even small efforts, like raising awareness, could help save lives.
What started as curiosity soon grew into something more. Before long, her husband and son came on board too, and volunteering became a shared way for the family to give back.
“Volunteering as a family feels special to us. It’s fulfilling, and has become a meaningful way for us to spend time together.”
A Full Circle Moment
Today, as a Volunteer Leader supporting outreach efforts under the Blood Donor Programme, Chern Ling is often at the frontlines of public engagement.
“I see myself as a bridge — helping people understand the importance of blood donation, answering their questions, and encouraging them to take that first step.”
Many people she meets are encountering blood donation for the first time, and often curious but unsure.
“The most rewarding part is seeing that shift from hesitation to willingness. Someone might start out fearful, but after a conversation, they feel empowered to donate.”
One moment has stayed with her. After a school talk, a student approached her and asked, “I never thought I could make such a difference. When can I start volunteering? Can I donate blood today?”
Hearing that was unforgettable. Even if she may never meet the recipients whose lives are saved, she says, “I know someone out there gets a second chance at life with every donor I engage.”
Joy in Giving Back
Over time, her volunteering expanded beyond blood donation into other areas of SRC’s work. Despite the time it takes, Chern Ling finds the rewards far outweigh the trade-offs.
“I genuinely just enjoy volunteering. Being able to meet people from all walks of life, and contribute to something meaningful makes the experience rewarding on its own. The Volunteer Leader role is secondary — what matters most is being part of the community and doing something that my heart loves to do.”
In many ways, her journey reflects this year’s World Red Cross Day theme, ‘United in Humanity.’
“We’re all just everyday people — students, parents, working adults — but we choose to show up and help. There’s nothing extraordinary about us individually, but together, we make an impact.”