GCED – What Kindness Looks Like at AISG (Part 3)

April was “Caring in Action” month at AISG’s Secondary School, during which we celebrate how acts of kindness can have a positive impact. The theme was created by some of our students who wanted to showcase what service looks like at AISG.

Apart from the assemblies and activities for our Secondary students, we are also utilizing AISG's official communication channels to raise awareness about our service groups, referred to as Global Citizenship Education (GCED) groups, which adhere to the United Nations' framework for service.

This is the third and final story in which we'll introduce our GCED groups and highlight the impact they've had through service and acts of kindness. Read on to hear from our students themselves!

 

Indifferent to Difference

We aim to improve the lives of those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Through direct service projects such as visits and builds, as well as awareness campaigns, we strive to bring different communities together. For instance, our Composite Canvas project was an art piece created by both students from AISG and children with autism from the Bellway Education Center, while the Caring in Action campaign was launched to spread knowledge and understanding of what service means. We hope our efforts will help create better opportunities for those with ASD.

Gender and Sexuality Alliance

The Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) strives to create a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals at AISG. Through events such as the Lunch n' Learn, Coming Out Day, and Day of Silence, we work to create an inclusive environment through the power of knowledge and understanding. GSA also works to build connections in our greater community by working with other LGBTQ+ organizations outside of our school.

Special Needs Union

We are dedicated to normalizing interactions between the disabled community and everyone else. We do this through fundraisers, running sessions, and other activities. Recently, we partnered with 阳光智协 to raise funds for their sports training program and also held a picnic on the Ersha campus with interactive games and activities. Our members also organized online classes to teach the children basic English phrases. SNU creates a fun and inclusive environment for everyone, promoting meaningful connections and laughter among all. We strive to provide more opportunities for everyone, no matter their background.

Global Issues Network

We travel to Shaoguan every year to visit the girls that we sponsor, with COVID impacting the visit for a couple of years. It is an amazing opportunity to connect with the local community, develop leadership, and overcome language barriers. During Family Fun Day, we sold ice cones and spread awareness about education and our group values. In addition, we translated thank you letters from the scholarship students to their donors, allowing us to witness how much the opportunity to receive an education means to them.

Roots and Shoots Animal

At the beginning of the year, we visited an animal shelter to update donation information and re-evaluate their needs. We were greeted by many excited dogs and cats! On Family Fun Day, we hosted a wrestling game in inflatable suits to raise money for the shelter. Furthermore, we organized an animal photo wall event, where members of the AISG community got to share pictures of their beloved pets and showcase animals from the shelter.

Elder Care

We initiated our service in September by visiting the Huangpu elder center and donating supplies. During October, we spread awareness through school announcements and posters. In November, we sent a video of members saying greetings to the elders, which was greatly appreciated. Ultimately, Elder Care strives to enhance the social, psychological, and cultural well-being of senior citizens.

AISG's community service program is referred to as our Global Citizenship Education (GCED) and offers students a chance to learn and grow by contributing their time and talents to a variety of service projects. A great service experience should be both challenging and enjoyable, taking students out of their comfort zones, while empowering them to take action.Click here to learn more about community service.