[BCM] [MINDS] [E1] [C2] Understanding Your Organisation

Understanding Your Organisation: MINDS

Introduction

The Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore (MINDS) is one of Singapore’s oldest and largest voluntary welfare organisations (VWOs) dedicated to the care, development, and empowerment of persons with intellectual disabilities (PWIDs) and their families.

Founded in May 1962, MINDS has evolved from a single classroom initiative into a comprehensive social service agency that offers a broad continuum of programmes and services across the lifespan.

This chapter provides an organisational overview to help inform the design and implementation of a business continuity management (BCM) programme that supports MINDS’ strategic objectives, delivery of care, and service resilience.

Organisational Purpose and Context

Vision and Mission

Vision:

To be a social service organisation that advances the development, well-being, and aspirations of persons with intellectual disability.

Mission:

MINDS delivers person-centred services that meet the needs, interests, and aspirations of PWIDs and their families, aiming to:

• maximise development and well-being;
• empower individuals to fulfil their potential; and
• enable participation and contribution to society.

These core commitments shape strategic decision-making and direct the organisation’s service delivery across all functions.

History and Growth

MINDS began with just 26 children taught by two teachers in a classroom pilot project initiated by philanthropists and supported by the Singapore Children’s Society.

Over six decades, it has expanded significantly to serve thousands of beneficiaries through a diversified portfolio of care, education, training, and support services.

As societal understanding and expectations of disability evolved, so too did MINDS’ scope—moving beyond early education to include vocational training, employment support, residential care, and community-based services.

Governance and Leadership

MINDS operates under a governance structure that includes a board of directors/executive committee, and leadership team responsible for strategic oversight and management.

This governance framework supports accountability, ethical conduct, and long-term sustainability, ensuring that MINDS continues to meet community needs effectively while upholding high standards of integrity and professionalism.

Core Services and Programmes

MINDS delivers a holistic range of services designed to support PWIDs across the lifespan, encompassing education, vocational training, employment support, residential care, community engagement, and caregiver support.

Special Education and Early Development

MINDS runs multiple special education schools providing life skills, academic exposure, and therapeutic support for learners with intellectual disabilities.

Employment and Training Support

Through Employment Development Centres (EDCs) and Training and Development Centres (TDCs), MINDS equips adults with vocational skills, supported placements, and pathways to sustainable employment within sheltered, supported, and open employment programmes.

Residential and Long-Term Care

Facilities such as MINDSville@Napiri provide integrated services including therapy, residential care for adults with high support needs, and homes for children from vulnerable backgrounds.

Community and Social Support Services

Additional services include caregiver support centres, community-based programmes, social enterprises that offer meaningful work opportunities, and volunteer-led initiatives, such as the MINDS MYG (Youth Group), which facilitate inclusion and social engagement.

Beneficiaries and Stakeholders

MINDS serves a diverse group of stakeholders, including:

• Persons with intellectual disabilities
• Families and caregivers
• Volunteers and community partners
• Government agencies and funders
• Corporate collaborators and donors

Engagement with stakeholders is essential for delivering person-centred programmes, advocating for inclusivity, and maintaining sustainable support networks.

Organisational Values and Culture

MINDS’ operations are underpinned by core values that guide behaviours and service delivery:

• Integrity – maintaining transparency and ethical conduct;
• Respect – valuing every individual’s dignity;
• Professionalism – delivering quality and excellence in outcomes.

These values inform decision-making at all levels and contribute to a culture focused on empowerment, dignity, and community inclusion.

Strategic Themes and Future Directions

MINDS continually reviews and evolves its services to respond to changing needs, technological developments, and emerging best practices. Strategic priorities include:

• expanding community-based support and inclusion initiatives;
• strengthening employment pathways and job-placement support;
• enhancing caregiver services;
• advancing applied research through the MINDS Institute to improve outcomes and service models.

Implications for Business Continuity Management (ISO 22301)

Understanding MINDS’ purpose, structure, services, stakeholders, and values is fundamental to establishing a BCM programme that aligns with organisational objectives:

• Service dependency mapping: Identify critical activities (e.g., residential care, special education delivery) and the people, technology, partners, and facilities essential to continuity.
• Risk and impact assessment: Assess potential disruptions to vulnerable populations and services to prioritise resilience strategies.
• Engagement: Work with internal and external stakeholders to develop practical continuity plans that safeguard care delivery during disruptions.

By grounding BCM in operational realities and mission-critical services, MINDS can enhance its resilience and uphold its commitment to empowering PWIDs and supporting their families—even during adverse events.

Implementing Business Continuity Management for MINDS: Ensuring Continuity of Care and Services
eBook 1: Understanding Your Organisation: SHINE Children and Youth Services
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