Contents January 2023 issue Across U-hub Let's get together Message from Executive Director - 01 Happy New Year & Walking Along with Across - 03 Volunteer Sharings - 05
Message from Executive Director
The beginning of the year reminds me to reflect on what “time” means. No matter how quickly time flies, time will leave traces of memory, which are recalled slowly in the future. Over the past few years, COVID has left a long trail of memories that people worldwide cannot forget. Last year, as always, my team worked tirelessly and kept learning to ensure we do our best to do things well, live up to our faith; and stay true to our mission at Across. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the communities we serve, our volunteers, and our supporters.
Here are some highlights and memories from the latter half of the year.
At the beginning of 2022, we were unable to reach as many young people as in the past. However, in the second half of the year, restrictions were gradually lifted, and young people become enthusiastic to come back.
In October, I ran a marathon with Across alumni and their families On the one hand, I responded to the encouragement and support of my supporters. On the other hand, I was moved by seeing the alumni from all walks of life, running with babies in their arms and pushing strollers, for nothing but to support Across.
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Nicole Wong
Message from Executive Director
In November, we boldly held our annual fundraising gala. The packed banquet hall made it clear to that we crave meeting each other in person.
In December, young people gathered at Across to prepare and distribute food to those in need in Toronto. At the Christmas party, everyone, including those who were new to Across, showed a strong sense of family togetherness It is all because we care - we care about each other!
Facing the unknowns of 2023, I hope that everyone will experience a bounty of beautiful moments in time and make every day a blessing in life. I sincerely wish you and your family a safe and happy 2023!
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Happy New Year & Walking Along with Across
Happy New Year to the Across community! Every year comes with its challenges and successes, and you ’ ve been with us each step of the way Thank you for keeping us in your corner! Whatever this year brings, we’ll achieve it together. Starting in 2023, the Across Newsletter will be published at the beginning of every month
As 2023 has just started, I took some time to reflect on what I contributed to Across U-hub over the past years A mentor of mine always reminded me that being a volunteer at an organization is not only about serving the organization by getting work done but also contributing and being involved wholeheartedly in the organization. Another friend told me that: “There is no organization like Across U-hub that provides and gives opportunities for youth to try, to fail, to succeed, to learn, and to explore It is not only about getting work done, but it guides you along a learning journey. It may take time and you may not see the “result” instantly. Slowly though, you will realize that what you have learned from Across U-hub is already being applied to your daily life.”
I started as a volunteer at Across when I was studying in university I remember I had a very curious feeling Across felt different from the places where I used to volunteer. This place is full of energetic and heartwarming people who will actually chat with you and care about you It is also a place that gave me opportunities for trial and error, and to explore and experience many different things that I would not have had the opportunity otherwise
Tiffany Ore
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Happy New Year & Walking Along with Across
In December 2022, nine volunteers received the 2022 Ontario Service Award for their faithful contribution to Across U-hub and the community.
15 years of service: Jacky Lau, ChrisB Liu
10 years of service: Joanna Kwok, Joyce Mak
5 years of service: Edmund Tam, Vivian Tam
Youth award: Zara Cheung, Eavan Li, Eudora Mei
Congratulations and a sincere thank you for all of your contributions over these years.
It has always been a pleasure walking alongside all the friends and volunteers that I have met at Across U-hub. I look forward to our journeys ahead.
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Volunteer Sharing
Looking back at the day I first walked into the old Across U-hub office in 2007, I was still a student accompanied by my mom to register for a Youth Leadership Development program. While looking through the program highlights pamphlet, I signed up for a few more of them. I remember the big sisters and brothers whom I met were so kind and encouraging It was not just about the knowledge the programs delivered, it was about the relationships and mentorship built.
I officially joined as a volunteer a couple years later and went to the summer camp for the very first time. I had the opportunity to apply many skills in a real project, both hard and soft skills The sense of comradery among those involved was not something I had experienced before. I know someone will be there to help if I fall short. Many of these people are still my closest friends to this date
Across U-hub had truly broadened my worldview and taught me how to see from a different perspective. I sincerely hope the next generation can benefit from the Across U-hub community the same way I did. That's what drives me to continue to contribute to this organization
Joanna Kwok
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Volunteer Sharing con't
I attended my first Across U-hub leadership training camp 20 years ago. Since then, Across U-hub has always had an important place in my heart My level of involvement as a volunteer has varied: from being a mentor at the annual camp to facilitating weekly programming with Refeel, from conducting research projects to co-hosting the Coffee Bubble Tea podcast I am so grateful for all of these opportunities. Without them, I would not have been able to see and experience my potential and to stretch myself to achieve more that I could imagine In continuing to volunteer at Across Uhub, I hope I can play a small part to help youth deepen their self-awareness, discover their passions, and guide them along their personal journeys towards a healthy and meaningful life.
Most importantly though is the community of incredibly kind, generous, and warmhearted people who consistently care and support me and one another. Through these friendships, I know that my life has value: I am treated with respect and dignity that I learn to pass onto others I cherish Across U-hub for their excellent work and for the amazing community it has developed over the past two decades. Thank you!
Joyce Mak
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Volunteer Sharing con't
I joined Across U-hub in 2015 through friends who were also volunteers at Across.
Over the years, I have met many friends and people from all walks of life, and also got to learn and apply skills outside of my profession, for example, video editing, photography, and making leather products through various programs and volunteering opportunities. All of this also helped me grow personally and become a better communicator.
The community at Across U-hub is very welcoming and allows me to challenge myself and explore different volunteering roles There are always new and engaging activities, and I continue to find the experience here very enriching.
Edmund Tam
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