From Camper to Changemaker: Eileen’s Journey with Camp Rainbow

Eileen

Meet Eileen – a dedicated youth working in the school sector with a heart for inclusion and service. Outside of her professional role, Eileen spends her free time volunteering with the special needs community, working alongside like-minded individuals to create an inclusive and supportive environment. 

Her passion is deeply personal. Born premature and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Eileen has never let her condition define her limits. She shares, "My aspiration is to build a career in the special needs education or social service sector, where I can make a meaningful impact by offering a fresh perspective on how society views individuals with special needs." 

Journeying with Club Rainbow 

Eileen’s connection with Club Rainbow (Singapore) began during her childhood, at a time when she was attending regular medical appointments. Medical social workers recognised her need for both social support and educational assistance, eventually introducing her to Club Rainbow – a turning point in her journey. 

Since joining in 2012, Eileen has benefitted from the organisation’s holistic support iin numerous ways, such as tuition tailored to her learning pace to support her education journey, and programmes that enriched her social life. “Through significant annual events like Camp Rainbow, I was given the opportunity to interact with people beyond my usual circle, helping me expand my social connections and experiences.” 

Camp Rainbow: More Than Just a Camp  

Camp Rainbow, the biggest and only medically-supervised 3-day 2-night (3D2N) camp organised by Club Rainbow (Singapore), is designed specifically for children with chronic illnesses. But it offers far more than a simple getaway. It's a place of empowerment, inclusion, and community – something Eileen has experienced firsthand. 

“As a camper, I enjoyed every year I participated in Camp Rainbow,” she says. “It felt like a reunion each time, as I had the chance to reconnect with friends while creating new memories together.” 

Her positive experience eventually inspired her to return in a new role – as a volunteer befriender and a member of Camp Rainbow’s organising committee. 

“Camp Rainbow has made a profound impact on my life through the friends and connections I've made over the years,” she explains. “Returning as a volunteer feels like a calling, as I want to give back to the community that has supported me by helping create meaningful experiences. It’s exactly what I hope other children can experience as well.” 

Volunteering with Camp Rainbow has been both an honour and a joy for Eileen. Seeing familiar faces return year after year, watching them grow as individuals and continue to be part of the experience has given Eileen a sense of fulfillment.  

“I’m looking forward to seeing both new and familiar faces, as well as the exciting activities we have planned for them,” she says. “It’s always rewarding to create an engaging and memorable experience for our campers, while also providing caregivers with a much-needed chance to rest and recharge.” 

A Message to Fellow Youths 

To returning campers considering to volunteer for Club Rainbow, Eileen has a heartfelt message: 

“For returning youths, I encourage you to pass down the amazing experiences and memories you’ve gained to others. Share the light and passion that you’ve received, and inspire them to give back in their own way. 

For youths who are considering getting involved, I want to remind you that Persons with Special Needs are not ‘scary.’ With patience, understanding, and guidance from others, you’ll find that you can make a meaningful impact and build strong, supportive connections.” 

Eileen’s journey is a shining example of how one person’s story can ripple outward, inspiring hope, courage, and community. Camp Rainbow isn’t just a camp – it’s a celebration of resilience, friendship, and the belief that every child, regardless of their challenges, deserves joy and belonging. 

About Camp Rainbow  

Organised by Club Rainbow (Singapore), Camp Rainbow is the biggest and only medically-supervised 3D2N camp for children with chronic illnesses. 

Join us in making a difference in the lives of children with chronic illnesses by volunteering for Camp Rainbow or for our other events and activities. Together, we can continue to create magical experiences for those who need it most!