Rotary Cares

We did not bring about world peace, neither did we reverse global warming nor reduce poverty in the world.  We the Rotary Club of Sri Petaling did not do any of that, but we managed to bring joy and laughter to a group of young children from various orphanages in town, at least for this one day, and we are proud of it.  Like our PDG Ken Khoo mentioned in his speech, the festive season is not only about receiving gifts and well wishes, it is also about giving.   This children party was just a small present we gave to the children, to show them that there are people out there who cares.



On the 27th December 2010, RC Sri Petaling, together with RC Ampang, jointly organised an outing specially for a group of 120 children from Angel Home, Ti-Ratana, Sunbeam, Lighthouse and Trinity.  We brought them to One Utama Shopping Complex at 10:00 am, provided them with 2 hours of non-stop action at the Starship Galactica Playground.  All we heard during that time was nothing but laughter.  

At noon, all children were invited to Burger King for lunch.  Arranging meal for 120 pax in one goal was never an easy task.  Thanks to the Rotary Club members, spouses and the Interactors from SMK Sri Saujana, everyone had a set lunch consisting chicken burger, french fries and drinks after some chaotic moment.  Seeing the children happily munching their way over lunch, we shared their moment of satisfaction.

After lunch, it was a long march to the old wing of One Utama, for a Christmas Stage Show specially arranged for the children by the management of One Utama.  We were a little early and the show would not start for another hour.  Being children as they were, it was hard for them to sit still for such a long period of in-activity.  Some Rotarians were fast to respond to situation.  An impromptu talent show was  quickly arranged.  It turned out to be a big surprise for everyone as the children took turns to show off their talent that put many of us to shame.  We were treated with Christmas songs, break-dance, guitar playing, somersaults and many more.  Our sponsor, Datuk Teo of One Utama made a surprise visit to the stage and joined the fun.  He deserved the big round of applause as he was a true Santa of the day by sponsoring the event.

While we were enjoying with the performance, the announcement of the DJ drew the talent show to an end.  But not to worry, the next twenty minutes of songs, dance, music and colourful costume pushed the festive mood to a new height.  All eyes were glued to the well-choreographed dances with intermittent applause.  At the end of the show, every child was given a goody bags, cakes and candies, a little something to remind them of the fun-filled day.

As the event drew to an end, I ushered one group of children back to their bus. A little boy held on to my fingers so tightly along the way and I gave him an assuring grip, leading him through the shopping crowd.  Children of young age need someone to hold on to, for direction in life and care.  As Rotarians, we will do whatever little we can, even it is just for that 10 minutes walk in their life.

 Written by Rtn Kong Hin Yew