Activity Week: HK Outreach, A Journey of Volunteering, Empathy, and Community Service

Our recent HK Outreach trip was an eye-opening and heartwarming experience, offering a unique blend of volunteer work, empathy-building, and connection with the community. Through a series of service-based activities, students not only contributed to various local causes but also gained invaluable life skills that will benefit them in the future. The week was filled with opportunities to make a tangible impact, learn through hands-on involvement, and form lasting bonds with peers and the communities we served.

Day 1: Beach Clean-up with Healthy Seas Hong Kong

We kicked off our outreach journey with an early morning beach clean-up at Approach Beach in Tsuen Wan. Armed with gloves and trash bags, we worked together to remove rubbish from the beach, helping to protect marine life and preserve the natural beauty of Hong Kong's coastline. This activity gave us a firsthand look at the environmental challenges facing our oceans and the importance of keeping our surroundings clean. The sense of accomplishment we felt at the end of the day was profound, as we realised how even small actions, like picking up litter, can make a big difference in protecting our planet.

Day 2: Warehouse Work and Trail of World Needs at Crossroads Hong Kong

On day two, we divided into two groups for a day full of meaningful work at Crossroads Hong Kong. One group spent the day in the warehouse, sorting donated items such as clothes, toys, and household goods. This hands-on task was incredibly rewarding, as it allowed us to directly contribute to the efforts of Crossroads in supporting people in need. The teamwork involved in organising the donations further strengthened our connections with each other and reinforced the value of working together for a common cause.

Meanwhile, the other group took part in the "Trail of World Needs," an immersive experience designed to highlight global issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental challenges. As we moved through the trail, we learned about the struggles faced by people around the world, gaining a deeper understanding of the urgency of addressing these issues. Afterward, we helped sort stationery donations that would be sent to communities in need, understanding how something as simple as school supplies can have a significant impact on educational opportunities for disadvantaged children.

Day 3: Pizza Party and Reflection before the Impact HK Kindness Walk

Wednesday was a day of reflection and connection. We gathered for a much-needed pizza party, where we shared stories and reflected on the meaningful work we had done so far. This relaxed, fun atmosphere allowed us to bond with our peers and teachers while also discussing the impact of our service activities. We discussed how the experiences at Crossroads had shaped our understanding of global issues and personal empathy.

After lunch, we prepared ourselves for the afternoon's activity: the Impact HK Kindness Walk. The Kindness Walk gave us a chance to put into action the values we had been developing throughout the week. We spread kindness through small, thoughtful gestures, such as handing out packed bags with basic necessities as well as food, offering encouraging words, and simply taking the time to connect with people on a human level. It was a beautiful reminder of how a little kindness can go a long way in making someone's day better.

Day 4: Redress Hong Kong

Our fourth day was divided into two meaningful activities, with groups swapping over to experience both. One group spent the day at Redress Hong Kong, an organisation dedicated to addressing human rights issues, particularly those related to refugees and migrants. We engaged in re-dress activities, helping to prepare second-hand clothing for redistribution. This day was particularly impactful, as we connected with the mission of Redress and gained a deeper understanding of the global importance of advocacy and support for displaced people. We also learned about the challenges faced by refugees and migrants, reinforcing the importance of global human rights advocacy.

The other group was led on a cultural walk by our teachers, where we had the opportunity to enjoy some sunshine while engaging in physical activity. As we explored different parts of the city, we learned about the history and culture of Hong Kong. The walk was a perfect balance of exploration and relaxation, providing a refreshing break while still enriching our experience. It allowed us to reflect on the connections between culture, community, and service while spending time together as a group.

Day 5: Primary School Service

The final day of our outreach trip saw us return to AISHK, where we assisted primary school teachers in various classroom activities. From creating resources to reading with students and providing general classroom support, we experienced what it was like to be mentors and helpers to younger peers. This experience was especially rewarding as it allowed us to directly contribute to the educational development of younger students, reinforcing the importance of community and support in education.

Conclusion: Reflection and Connections

Throughout the week, we were encouraged to reflect on our experiences, the lessons we learned, and the difference we made. The week was not just about volunteering, but about connecting with others, developing empathy, and gaining a greater understanding of the world around us. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of community service and the impact that our actions, no matter how small, can have on others. We returned home with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to continue making a positive difference in our community.

This experience has taught us that the power of service lies not just in what we give, but in the connections we create, the empathy we develop, and the lasting change we help bring about. The HK Outreach trip has helped to remind us that service is an essential part of who we are.

By: Naomi Tsang and Bell Thomas