TCYA Chicago 芝加哥慈少

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TCYA Chicago 芝加哥慈少

Tzu Chi Youth Association Chicago

01/02/2026

In these past months, Chicago Tzu Shao members have participated in teaching English and sharing American holiday traditions with elementary school students from Hualien, Taiwan. This initiative is part of a larger program where TCYA chapters across the U.S. collaborate. Though the sessions took place through Google Meet, the connections and conversations were genuine, and Tzu Shao members enjoyed connecting with students abroad while representing both their chapter and their culture.

October 30th- Halloween Event
November 19th, 2025- Thanksgiving Event
December 17th, 2025- Christmas Event

10/12/2025

In our September monthly meeting, Tzu Shao members accomplished many important objectives:
1) Learned about environmental safety and went out on the busy Chinatown streets to do some street cleaning!
2) Learned about the terrible flood in Hualien, Taiwan, and what we can do as teenagers to help those in need.
3) Discussed our next few events, including teaching English & American holiday culture to students in Hualien TC Elementary School (Taiwan)
4) Held our officer elections

07/22/2025

On June 29th, the prestigious President's Volunteer Service Award was presented to 11 Tzu Shao members. Unfortunately, only 5 members were able to make it to the award ceremony. T The ceremony consisted of many parts. First and foremost, Tzu Shao members watched a year in review video, which allowed Tzu Shao members to reflect upon the volunteer work that they have done in the past year. Then, Tzu Chi Midwest Region Executive Director Chong Hsieh congratulated Tzu Shao members for their dedication and hard work. At the same time, he also reminded Tzu Shao members that volunteering isn’t just about the volunteer hours or college applications, but what you learn from it, as well as how you apply in real life. The Tzu Shao members then performed a sign language performance of “Pure Land on Earth”, which showcased a project that they used several times for charity performances. Following the performance, the PVSA was awarded. Several Tzu Shao members and parents shared their thoughts about their journey at TCYA after receiving the award.

While the PVSA is temporarily discontinued in the U.S. as of the 2025-2026 season, Tzu Shao members will continue to record their hours that will contribute to a new Tzu Chi Volunteer Service Award for the upcoming season. However, Tzu Shao members know that it’s not just about the volunteer hours, it's about the growth, empathy, and perspective we gain from helping others. The skills learned from volunteering can be applied to school, extracurriculars, future careers, and even just your personal life. With this in mind, Tzu Shao members are excited for the upcoming season!

06/01/2025

Tzu Shao Members helped make 400 sticky rice dumplings (粽子）for a charity sale! The help in crafting these traditional treats will directly support people in need, making a real difference in our community. This event is a beautiful reminder that even small acts of service, when done with heart, can make a big difference.

03/29/2025

In March of 2025, Tzu Shao members, along with Tzu You (the younger volunteer group), Tzu Chi Volunteers, and Parent Volunteers visited the Immanuel Residences. Immanuel Residences is a lovely senior residence and community. Tzu Shao members spent the day engaging with the residents through heartfelt conversations, music performances, and interactive activities. They listened to the seniors' stories, shared laughter, and built meaningful connections across generations.

Here are some highlights from this meaningful event:
1) Tzu Shao members practiced and performed a sign language performance together (Pure Land on Earth)
2) Sophia performed some Bach on the piano
3) Andre and Garrison both performed the violin
4) Tzu Shao members came up with multiple activity stations after the performances
a) The “Suspend” Game
b) Healthy Snacks
c) Origami
d) The Cup Stacking Challenge

Thank you to everyone at Immanuel Residences for providing us with this amazing opportunity and giving us such a warm welcome!

03/27/2025

In February 2025, Tzu Shao members volunteered at the West Suburban Community Pantry, working together to sort, package, and distribute food to families in need. Some members had previous experience volunteering at a food pantry, while for others, it was their first time. Regardless of their experience level, everyone walked away with valuable lessons.

Through this event, members gained a deeper understanding of food insecurity and the impact that community support can have on those facing hardship. They learned the importance of teamwork and efficiency in ensuring that resources reach as many people as possible. For those new to volunteering, the experience reinforced the power of small actions—how sorting cans or packing bags with care can bring relief to someone’s day. Above all, the event was a reminder of the importance of kindness, empathy, and giving back to the community.

Thank you to the West Suburban Community Pantry for the opportunity to serve and learn! 💙

03/03/2025

On 1/24/2025, Tzu Shao members, along with some other Tzu Chi volunteers helped with fundraising for the Los Angeles wildfires. Tzu Shao members willingly stood in the freezing cold, in front of multiple locations at a local plaza. Tzu Shao members held donation boxes, as well as large posters that brought attention to the LA wildfire crisis. Many people were touched by the dedication and compassion of Tzu Shao members, and decided to donate. After standing outside for 4 hours, Tzu Shao members felt proud of what was accomplished. Not only was there a large amount in donations, many people simply became aware of the situation in LA. Through this event, Tzu Shao members learned service, patience, and kindness.

2025年1月24日，慈少成員和一些慈濟志工一起為洛杉磯的野火募款。慈少成員站在寒冷的天氣裡，來到當地廣場的不同地方，拿著募款箱和大海報，希望讓更多人知道洛杉磯的野火災情。許多路過的人被慈少成員的愛心感動，決定捐款支持。經過四個小時的努力，大家都覺得很自豪，因為不只募到了很多捐款，還讓更多人了解這場災難。這次活動讓慈少成員學會了幫助別人，也學到了耐心和善良的重要性。

01/06/2025

On Sunday, December 15th of 2024, Tzu Shao members had a unique opportunity to teach English and all things Christmas to a group of 3rd graders in Hualien,Taiwan. Even though this session was conducted through Google Meet, Tzu Shao members still felt like they connected with the group of students and had tons of fun.

Tzu Shao members got on the Google Meet call 15 minutes before the session, proudly wearing the Tzu Shao uniform and festive Christmas hats. The session started with Mrs. Joy introducing Chicago Tzu Shao. The Tzu Shao members then introduced themselves one by one. Tzu Shao President Andre led the session.

Tzu Shao members went through the slideshow prepared for this session. The slideshow consisted of explanations of Christmas traditions and origin in English and also English vocabulary and terms about Christmas. Many Tzu Shao members also volunteered to share their Christmas experiences and traditions. “I think Christmas is very fun, and I spend time with my family, and gather around the table,” Scott Oh shares near the end of the meeting. “Outside it is very pretty because it snows, and sometimes when they put up Christmas lights you can also hear music in the background,” Adeline Tan articulates.

It was an eventful Sunday night full of enthusiasm and energy. This event was meaningful as it bridged cultural and linguistic gaps, allowing Tzu Shao members to practice leadership and communication while spreading holiday cheer. It showcased their commitment to service and the joy of connecting with others, even across great distances.

01/03/2025

Last November, Tzu Shao members took part of the 2024 Tzu Chi Chicago charity concert. Select members performed the sign language song "A Pure Land on Earth". The performance included both a stunning sign language visual and passionate violin playing.

By participating in the concert, Tzu Shao members contributed to a larger mission of fostering a spirit of giving and compassion within the community. Their dedication to delivering such a heartfelt performance reflected the core values of Tzu Chi, reminding everyone in the audience of the power of collective action and the importance of creating a "pure land" of kindness and understanding on Earth.
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Sign Language Performers: Quinn, Sophia, Casper, Scott, Evan, Austin

Violin Performers: Andre and Garrison

Violin Score Arrangement: Andre

11/18/2024

November Monthly Spotlight!!!

Address

1430 Plainfield Road
Darien, IL
60561

Website

https://www.youtube.com/@ChicagoTzuShao

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