Across Newsletter December 2023

December 2023 issue

Across U-hub Let's get together

Contents Message from Executive Director - 01 From Gala Triumph to Holiday Cheer at Across - 04

Message from Executive Director 一年一度的燃動青年籌款晚會於11月順利舉行。晚會不僅 是為籌募經費，更是向一直支持我們的朋友致以感謝，並 分享我們的工作成果。同時，晚會也是義工期待的日子， 是多年的義工之重聚日，也是新加入的義工之訓練日。 當天清晨，經驗豐富的義工早已抵達場地，熟練地協助整 理送來的物資和音響設備，將它們有秩序地擺放在合適的 位置。接著，年輕的新義工也陸續抵達， Across特有的義 工訓練立即展開。先來一個熱身遊戲，義工們面上出現了 一個問號：「遊戲？」 這個遊戲成功地解開了義工們之間的防線，在了解當天的 共同目標的過程中，我們成為同一個團隊，彼此沒有保 留，每位義工都是主人翁。 晚會也是Across 日常工作的縮影，從確立目標開始，我們 團隊就按步組織起來，當天每一位義工的衣著、舉止、微 笑、待人接物，在台上、台下、場內、場外的管理，都有 他們的位置，使得我們共同的目標完美實現。透過參與， 義工們不僅洞悉了熱忱、無私、應變、慷慨等無法量化的 素質，更是發掘他們潛能的良機。 Across經常面對緊拙的資源和人手的挑戰，義工的參與成 為我們最強大的支柱，形容義工是Across的靈魂絕非言過 其實。我們相信，他們的參與不僅是對Across的支持，更 是一種無私奉獻的表現。

Nicole Wong

Message from Executive Director The annual Across U-hub Fundraising Dinner was successfully held in November. More than just a fundraising event, it served as a platform to highlight the work of Across U-hub and express our heartfelt gratitude to steadfast supporters who have consistently stood by us.

Volunteers also looked forward to the event. Long-time volunteers eagerly anticipated the gathering as a moment to reunite, while new volunteers seized the occasion for valuable training.

Early on the day of the event, experienced volunteers had already arrived at the venue, skillfully organizing materials and audio equipment, and placing them in an orderly manner. Young volunteers started to show up gradually as well, and Across's unique volunteer training kicked started right away. The session commenced with an engaging warm-up game that effectively broke the ice, eliciting surprise and laughter from the volunteers.

This game played a pivotal role in fostering unity. As we collectively embraced the common goal of the day, barriers dissolved, and each volunteer became a protagonist of the day.

Message from Executive Director (con’t) The event also reflected the daily operations of Across.

Starting with goal-setting to execution, our team systematically organized every detail. Each volunteer's appearance, behavior, smiles, and hospitality, both on and off the stage, inside and outside the venue, had their place, ensuring the perfect realization of our common goal. Through their participation, volunteers not only gained insights into qualities such as passion, selflessness, adaptability, and generosity as well as an opportunity to reach their full potential.

Facing challenges from limited financial and human resources, Across U-hub often relies on the unwavering support of volunteers. Describing volunteers as the soul of Across is by no means an exaggeration but a sincere acknowledgment of their indispensable role. We believe that their involvement is not only a support for Across but also a manifestation of selfless dedication.

From Gala Triumph to Holiday Cheer at Across On November 12, we successfully concluded the Fundraising and Youth Awards Celebration Dinner with an attendance of over 520 guests. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who took the time to support the work of Across. This event also marked the initial Across U-CAN Youth Awards presentation night, and we congratulate the five deserving award recipients.

Their stories are truly inspiring, and you can read more about them on the Youth Awards webpage: https://acrossuhub.com/across-u-can-youth-awards-2023-listof-awardees/ In the aftermath of the Gala's success, the momentum at Across is beginning to gently subside, offering us a moment of reflection and anticipation as the holiday season approaches.

With Christmas just around the corner, we are eagerly embracing the festive spirit that envelops our organization. This time of year provides us with a unique opportunity to foster fellowship among our dedicated volunteers. Beyond the usual hustle and bustle, we see Christmas as a special occasion to express our gratitude to the individuals who contribute their time and efforts to Across. As we prepare for the upcoming volunteer Christmas party, our focus is on creating an atmosphere of joy and togetherness. We are organizing engaging games, and delightful food and drinks, ensuring that our volunteers can unwind, share laughter, and forge lasting connections in the warmth of the holiday season. It is through these moments of celebration and unity that we strengthen the bonds that make Across a supportive and thriving community.

Join us in spreading holiday cheer at our Christmas gathering! https://acrossuhub.com/events/christmas-party-2023/

Tiffany Ore