Dr Pushpa Devi (right) receiving a painting from Rosida, one of the two artists who donated their artworks to be auctioned off during fundraising efforts.
A non-profit organisation raised more than RM120,000 during a fundraising dinner to help special needs individuals under its care.
Touch Community Society Seremban (TCS) chairman Dr Pushpa Devi Hukam Gopal Chand said 500 guests attended the charity dinner at SJK (T) Bandar Seri Sendayan school hall in Seremban, Negri Sembilan.
Two local artists also auctioned off their work in aid of the centre.
Rosida Yakob’s painting garnered RM1,500 while two artworks by Sonia Nijjar netted RM900.
Established in 2000, TCS, also known as Persatuan Perkembangan Insan Istimewa Seremban, helps empower children and young adults with learning disabilities including Down Syndrome, attention deficit disorder and autism.
The centre currently has 25 students aged five to 33.
Dr Pushpa Devi said the funds would be channelled towards teachers’ salary and training, utilities, food and to purchase equipment to improve the students’ motor skills.
Students from Touch Community Society Seremban performing during the charity dinner at SJK (T) Bandar Seri Sendayan.
“TCS has always been where individuals with special needs are allowed to learn, grow and thrive in an environment built around their unique needs, abilities and dreams.
“Whether through education, therapy, vocational training or social activities, we are committed to empowering our students and helping them reach their full potential.”
Dr Pushpa Devi also underscored the importance of creating meaningful employment opportunities for the students, particularly in sheltered workshops and other inclusive work environments.
“Our students have skills, strengths and abilities that are often overlooked or underestimated.
“With the right guidance, training, opportunities and platforms for them to thrive, they can excel in a variety of roles.”
She hoped local businesses would collaborate with TCS by offering sheltered workshops at the centre for tasks such as assembly, packaging and data entry.
“These programmes give students the tools they need to eventually transition into open employment or continue working within a sheltered workshop setting, depending on their abilities,” she added.
During the charity dinner, guests were treated to music and dance performances by the students and a video presentation of the centre’s daily activities.
Dr Pushpa Devi said while funds were vital to continue the centre’s work, the centre could also benefit from volunteer services.
Whether once a week or daily, volunteers are welcome to contribute in their areas of expertise be it baking, gardening, storytelling, yoga or even assisting with computer lessons.
“It’s not just about financial assistance, it’s about investment in human potential, investment in lives that matter deeply to all of us.
“Without volunteers, we simply would not be able to offer the personal, individualised attention that is essential,” she said.
Dr Pushpa Devi expressed her gratitude to those who had contributed to the event including donors, TCS’ dedicated team of teachers and management committee, guest of honour Senator Datuk A. Kesavadas, and SJK (T) Bandar Sri Sendayan Board of Governors which had provided the event venue at a minimal fee.
She said the community had truly come together to make a positive difference in the lives of the special needs individuals.
Donations were also received from friends and supporters in Australia, Thailand and the US, she said.
For details, call 06-633 1822 or 012-251 5043 (Dr Pushpa Devi), or email touchcom@yahoo.com
