On December 31, 2025, as the year came to a close, students from Maple Leaf International School Wuhan visited the Jianghan District Social Welfare Institute to organize a public welfare activity for the elderly residents. Participating as a branch of the MLIS Students Charity Union, the students aimed to bring warmth, companionship, and festive joy to the seniors while welcoming the arrival of the new year.
For many volunteers, this was their first time stepping into the daily lives of elderly residents in a nursing home. On that day, the idea of “companionship” was no longer just a concept, but something they experienced through real conversations, shared laughter, and meaningful interaction.
The event began with a warm welcome from the student hosts, followed by an energetic performance of the dance “The Most Dazzling Ethnic Style,” which quickly brought the room to life. The lively rhythm encouraged many residents to clap along and join the cheerful atmosphere.
Interactive segments such as knowledge quizzes and small games followed. Elderly participants enthusiastically joined the activities while student volunteers patiently assisted them. Laughter and conversation filled the hall, creating a warm and lively environment.
Several residents later performed classic songs such as “Socialism Is Good” and “We Are Walking on the Great Road.” As the students sat quietly and listened, the familiar melodies carried memories from another generation. Some volunteers softly sang along while others recorded the touching moment.
One of the most memorable parts of the visit was the herbal sachet workshop. Students and residents sat together in small groups, sewing traditional sachets filled with fragrant herbs. The seniors patiently demonstrated how to thread needles and stitch the small pouches while sharing stories from their past.
The program continued with lively performances including the energetic “Seal Dance” and humorous sketches that brought waves of laughter from the audience. Songs such as “The Moon Represents My Heart” and “Lotus Pond Moonlight” created a calm and gentle atmosphere.
The event concluded with everyone singing “It Is Mother, It Is Daughter” together. As the music slowly faded, students and residents shared a quiet and emotional moment, marking the end of the year with warmth and connection.
Through this activity, the student volunteers discovered that charity does not always require grand gestures. Sometimes it simply means slowing down, listening to others, and spending time together. As part of the MLIS Students Charity Union’s mission to encourage youth-led philanthropy, the Wuhan branch will continue organizing activities that promote care, respect, and meaningful community engagement.
For more information about the MLIS Students Charity Union and its activities, please visit www.mlcharity.org