Dr. Alicia Altorfer-Ong Transforms Charity with Empathy-Focused Approach

Dr. Alicia Altorfer-Ong, the executive director of the Singapore-based charity Ray of Hope, champions a unique approach to crowdfunding that prioritizes individual stories over hardships. Her journey began in her early 20s when she volunteered at a refugee camp along the Myanmar-Thailand border. This experience profoundly shaped her perspective on resilience and the human spirit.

In the 1990s, Dr. Altorfer-Ong sought to gain a deeper understanding of the political and humanitarian challenges in the region. By connecting with a women’s organization run by an ethnic minority group, she immersed herself in the lives of the Karenni people. “Working and staying with the families I met was one of the best experiences of my life,” she recalled. Nearly three decades later, she maintains those connections, underscoring the lasting impact of her time there.

As executive director of Ray of Hope, Dr. Altorfer-Ong draws from her past to foster empathy within her organization. The charity, founded by businessman Danny Yong in November 2012, has raised over S$26 million since its inception. It emphasizes dignity for its beneficiaries by portraying them as relatable individuals, not mere symbols of struggle.

Dr. Altorfer-Ong firmly rejects the notion of “poverty porn.” She emphasizes that individuals facing adversity should not be reduced to their challenges. “It’s degrading and dehumanising when all we see about people is their suffering,” she stated. Instead, her approach highlights the complexity of each person’s life, including their hopes, dreams, and everyday experiences.

Her commitment to giving back stems from her own privileged background. Raised in a financially secure family, she has always felt the need to contribute. Her volunteer work spans decades, from tutoring as a teenager to offering mentorship in her professional life. “I call myself a ‘serial volunteer’,” she humorously noted, acknowledging how these experiences have enriched her understanding of various communities.

Empowering Through Storytelling

At Ray of Hope, storytelling is at the heart of their campaigns. This strategy not only facilitates fundraising but also humanizes the beneficiaries. The charity has successfully funded 70 percent of its campaigns, assisting over 1,200 families in Singapore. “The point of Ray of Hope is to provide a safe and trusted space for anyone to give and receive support,” Dr. Altorfer-Ong explained.

Many individuals who seek help through Ray of Hope fall outside traditional aid systems. This includes students unable to pay school fees, foreigners facing medical challenges, and single parents struggling to make ends meet. “They fall through the cracks of existing systems, and that’s where we step in,” she added.

Every campaign is crafted with the beneficiary’s input, ensuring their voice is heard. This collaborative approach builds trust and allows for a more dignified representation of their circumstances. Campaign materials often feature uplifting imagery of beneficiaries engaged in everyday activities, rather than focusing solely on their struggles. “Portraying them as everyday, relatable individuals is one way of doing it,” Dr. Altorfer-Ong stated.

Community Engagement and Active Listening

Dr. Altorfer-Ong, who has been part of Ray of Hope’s leadership since 2020, believes effective leadership hinges on active listening. “I mean, actually, actively listening – even if you can’t promise anything,” she explained. This attentiveness is evident in her interactions with beneficiaries and team members alike.

Her leadership style fosters a culture of inclusivity and understanding. At networking events, she connects beneficiaries with professionals from various sectors, facilitating opportunities beyond financial aid. These initiatives include gala dinners for migrant workers and community programs linking beneficiaries with job opportunities.

Ray of Hope collaborates with other organizations, including Flour Power and HealthServe, to expand its impact. These partnerships enhance the charity’s ability to provide comprehensive support to those in need. “Every story needs to be handled with care and given the attention it deserves,” Dr. Altorfer-Ong emphasized.

Ultimately, Dr. Altorfer-Ong believes that while financial assistance is crucial, lasting connections and understanding are what truly make a difference. “What endures are the connections and chances that come when people truly see and understand one another,” she concluded.

Ray of Hope continues to evolve under her leadership, demonstrating that empathy and storytelling can transform the landscape of charitable giving.