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TCYA Atlanta

Tzu Chi Youth Association (TCYA, aka Tzu Shao), is a youth group composed of middle and high school students.

In TCYA Atlanta, the youth learn interpersonal communication, teamwork and leadership, and serve with compassion.

10/29/2026

2026.10.25 亞特蘭大慈少社區公益項目-秋季演講班結業 Fall 2026 Public Speaking Class Finale

【Summary by Enzhong Liu, Teacher’s Parent】

More Than Just Public Speaking: TCYA Fall 2026 Class Celebrates Growth, Confidence, and Friendship!

“My kids might skip other extracurricular activities, but they would never want to miss this public speaking class!”

This heartfelt comment from a parent perfectly captures what made our Fall 2026 Public Speaking Program so special. Organized by the Tzu Chi Youth Association – Atlanta Chapter (TCYA Atlanta), our Fall 2026 Public Speaking Program has successfully concluded!

We started with 10 students, and 9 stayed committed through the entire program—an impressive 90% retention rate! Considering how busy children are with schoolwork and extracurricular activities, this level of commitment is truly encouraging.

◎ From Finding Their Voices to Speaking with Confidence

Led by student instructor Acadia Liu, with dedicated support from teaching assistant Esther Li, the program welcomed students from 4th through 7th grade.

Throughout the semester, students explored essential public speaking skills, from crafting engaging openings (Hooks), organizing compelling arguments, and delivering memorable conclusions to mastering body language, eye contact, vocal variety, pacing, audience engagement, and impromptu speaking.

Each class featured interactive activities and opportunities to practice. Students learned to organize their thoughts under time pressure, experiment with different speaking styles, and communicate their ideas clearly and confidently.

More importantly, they learned to listen respectfully, appreciate different perspectives, and encourage one another.

◎ Small Comment Cards, Big Impact

One particularly meaningful part of the program was Acadia's personalized feedback system. For every class, Acadia carefully prepared individual comment cards, offering both encouragement and constructive suggestions for improvement.

One parent shared that her child took these comments so seriously that he began independently searching for additional learning materials and practicing beyond his regular homework.

Seeing a child move from simply completing assignments to actively seeking ways to improve is incredibly rewarding. The greatest achievement of education is not simply teaching new skills, but inspiring children to become self-motivated learners.

◎ More Than Teachers and Students—A Community of Friends

Another parent shared: “The teacher is very knowledgeable and creates such a welcoming and enjoyable environment. The students and teachers have become really good friends, both during and after class.”

As young leaders themselves, Acadia and Esther are not only teachers but also relatable role models and friends. The classroom has become a place filled with laughter, encouragement, and mutual respect, where students feel comfortable sharing ideas, making mistakes, and learning together.

Knowledge is shared through meaningful conversations, while friendships grow through shared experiences.

For these children, public speaking class has become more than an extracurricular activity—it is a welcoming community where they feel heard, supported, and valued. No wonder they look forward to every class!

◎ Celebrating Growth and Gratitude

Congratulations to all nine students who completed the program! Your dedication, enthusiasm, and willingness to challenge yourselves deserve recognition.

A special thank-you to Acadia Liu and Esther Li for generously dedicating their time to lesson preparation, classroom activities, and personalized feedback. As student volunteers, they have demonstrated that leadership is not simply about guiding others, but about serving the community with patience, responsibility, and compassion.

Our heartfelt appreciation also goes to Tzu Chi Foundation, Atlanta Branch, for providing classroom space, refreshments, and wonderful volunteer support, and to all the parents for their trust and encouragement.

While the 90% student retention rate is impressive, what matters even more is the confidence gained, the motivation inspired, and the genuine friendships formed along the way. Public speaking may be the subject we teach, but confidence, self-motivation, respect for others, and leadership are the lasting lessons we hope our students carry forward.

The fall semester may have ended, but their journey of growth has only just begun!

不止於演講，更在於成長——TCYA 2026年秋季公眾演講班圓滿結業！

「其他課外活動，孩子們可能會找理由不去，但這門演講課，他們一次也不想錯過！」一位家長發自內心的感慨，道出了本學期最令人欣慰的收穫。
由亞特蘭大慈少(慈濟青少年團/TCYA Atlanta）組織的 2026 年秋季公眾演講班順利結束。本期共有 10 位學生參加，9 位堅持完成全部課程，留存率高達 90%！在課業和各類活動都十分繁忙的情況下，這份堅持格外珍貴。

◎ 從勇敢開口到自信表達

本期課程由學生講師 Acadia Liu 主講、助教 Esther Li 協助，面向四至七年級的孩子。

課程從吸引觀眾的開場（Hook）、清晰的演講結構和有力的結尾，延伸到肢體語言、眼神交流、聲音變化、節奏把控、觀眾互動及即興演講。

每堂課都有有趣的練習和展示機會：有時需要在短時間內組織觀點，有時嘗試用不同的語氣打動聽眾，有時還要把一段演講濃縮到短短幾十秒。孩子們逐步學會如何抓住重點、清楚表達，也學習認真傾聽同伴、給予彼此支持與鼓勵。

◎ 一張小卡片，點燃主動學習的熱情

尤其令人感動的是，Acadia 每堂課都會為學生認真準備個性化評語卡（Comment Cards）：既寫下鼓勵與肯定，也指出值得改進的地方。

家長分享，孩子非常重視這些建議，甚至會主動查找額外資料，在課後練習、琢磨如何做得更好。這讓我們看到，比學會演講技巧更可貴的，是孩子開始願意主動學習、自我提升。從「老師要求我做」到「我自己想做好」，正是教育最美好的改變。

◎ 不只是師生，更成為朋友

另一位家長分享：「老師知識豐富，非常懂得如何營造輕鬆愉快的課堂氛圍。老師和孩子們不僅上課時相處融洽，課後也成了很好的朋友。」
年輕的 Acadia 和 Esther 既是老師，也是孩子們親近的榜樣。課堂充滿歡笑、尊重和鼓勵；孩子們敢於分享不同觀點，也不怕犯錯。知識在交流中傳遞，友誼在陪伴中生長。對這些孩子來說，這裡不僅是學習表達的課堂，更是一個可以自在做自己、被認真傾聽的地方。難怪孩子們如此期待每次見面。

◎ 感謝每一份堅持與付出

祝賀 9 位完成課程的同學！感謝 Acadia 和 Esther 利用課餘時間精心備課、組織活動、認真反饋，以耐心和熱情踐行青少年服務社區的精神。作為學生志工，兩位年輕老師也在服務中鍛鍊了責任心與領導力。

感謝慈濟亞特蘭大提供場地、點心和志工支持，也感謝家長們的信任與配合。

90% 的留存率令人鼓舞，但更讓我們珍惜的，是孩子們增長的自信、萌發的學習動力，以及彼此之間真誠的友誼。我們教的是公眾演講，期待孩子們帶走的，卻是勇敢表達、主動成長、尊重他人和擔當責任的力量。

秋季課程已落幕，成長的故事仍在繼續！

10/28/2026

2026.10.25 TCYA-Atlanta at The Franklin Johns Creek Senior Living亞特蘭大慈少富蘭克林老人院訪視

【Summary — by Jing Zhou, Parent】

2026年10月25日，TCYA-Atlanta（亚特兰大）十位青少年义工走进 The Franklin Johnson Creek Senior Living 养老社区，为长者们献上了一场温馨而精彩的文艺演出，用音乐与爱心传递温暖，陪伴老人们度过了一段欢乐的时光。

本次活动的节目丰富多彩，孩子们精心准备了独唱、二重唱、钢琴独奏、黑管演奏等精彩表演。悠扬的琴声、动听的歌声和优美的旋律，为养老社区增添了浓浓的欢乐气氛。孩子们用真诚的表演表达了对长者们的关爱与祝福，也赢得了现场观众的喜爱。

其中，最令人印象深刻的节目之一是孩子们带来的手语舞《认识你真好》。伴随着温暖的旋律，义工们用优美的手语动作传递友谊与关爱的美好情感。这一特别的表演引起了老人们的浓厚兴趣。演出结束后，几位长者还热情地提出，希望孩子们下次能够带来一首英文手语歌曲，让大家有机会进一步欣赏和感受手语艺术的魅力。

整场演出洋溢着温馨与欢乐。老人们纷纷表达了对孩子们精彩表演的喜爱与感谢，并期待他们再次到访。长者们的笑容和鼓励，也让参与活动的青少年义工们感受到了奉献与分享的快乐。

一次探访，一份陪伴；一场演出，一份温暖。对孩子们而言，这不仅是一次展示才艺的机会，更是一堂生动的爱心实践课。通过与长者们的交流和互动，青少年义工们用实际行动践行尊老敬老的传统美德，也在服务社区的过程中体会到了关怀他人、回馈社会的意义。

此次探访活动在欢声笑语中圆满结束。TCYA-Atlanta 将继续鼓励青少年积极参与社区公益活动，让青春的活力与爱心走进更多需要关怀的角落，让温暖在不同世代之间不断传递。

【Reflection — by Acadia Liu】

On Saturday, October 24th, I visited the Franklin senior center. We had initially planned to play board games with the seniors; however, due to last-minute constraints and complications, we quickly pivoted to performances. We had to gather enough performances to entertain the seniors in the span of 10-15 minutes, and luckily, we Tzu Shaos stepped up---the performances ended up being so coherent that it was hard to believe that the planning was last-minute. Additionally, at the end of the day, many seniors came up to us and expressed their appreciation for the performances and our kindness in visiting them. The visit really brought insight on thinking on your feet, and the kindness and care required to take care of the seniors.

【Reflection — by Esther Li】

Today, TCYA Atlanta performed at the Franklin Senior Center, and although we put everything together at the last minute, it turned out to be a meaningful and lively performance for the seniors. We sang the Star-Spangled Banner, played instruments such as the saxophone, and although we didn’t have weeks to prepare, we showed up and made it happen.

What stood out to me today was how much a small act can mean to someone else. We might have seen our performance as just a few songs and a dance, but for the seniors, it was an opportunity to enjoy music, connect with others, and take a break from their everyday routines. It reminded me that making a difference doesn’t always require doing something extraordinary. Sometimes, it starts with something as simple as showing up and sharing a part of ourselves with others. We may never fully know how much a small moment means to someone, but that doesn’t make it any less valuable.

We also welcomed our new member, Natalie F., which made the experience even more special. Every new member brings something different to our group, and it was great to have her be part of this experience. Being in TCYA Atlanta has taught me that volunteering is not just about the events we organize or the hours we spend helping others. It’s about the people we meet, the memories we create, and the willingness to work together toward something bigger than ourselves.

【Reflection — by Noel Baskin】

Even though there are not many performances today, we still have huge success serving in The Franklin senior center. I am lucky to perform twice for the songs I like and feel good about the opportunity to share our talents. The residents also seem to really appreciate the music also. Additionally, our team has chance to perform sign language dance and teens sign songs. We even tried to teach the residents a few Chinese words. It was a great Sunday time!

【Reflection — by Yumin Yau】

My mom drove me to the Franklin's senior living home, on October 25, 2026. Originally we were planning on playing games with the senior citizens, but a last decision was made so we performed. There was a small group of four that sang the Star Spangled Banner, the senior citizens really enjoyed the performance and was singing along. I was also part of the group that did a sign language. I really enjoyed my time there and I can't wait for next time!

【Reflection — by Alison Liu】

Today, I went to the Franklin's, and it turned out to be such a fun experience! When I first arrived, I thought we were going to play board games with the seniors, so I headed upstairs hoping to find everyone in the gathering room. It turned out they were actually downstairs! Everyone upstairs had to head back down to finally meet up with the group.

Once we got into the meeting room, we realized we wouldn't be playing board games after all—there weren't enough tables, and the seniors wanted a more active activity. At the last minute, we decided to switch to live performances instead! Several people performed, and I was one of them. I sang "The Star-Spangled Banner," and it was such a wholesome moment when all the seniors started singing along with us, with one even standing up to join in. To top it all off, we finished the day by doing a sign language song together.

10/14/2026

2026.10.11 TCYA-Atlanta at Magnolia Senior Living亞特蘭大慈少老人院訪視

【Summary — by Helen Liu, Parent】

Today I volunteered at Magnolia Senior Living with fellow TCYA members. Our group served food and put on a performance for the residents, and the experience left a lasting impression.

As we handed out meals and moved among the tables, many residents lit up with smiles and conversation. Some shared stories from their lives; others simply expressed how much they appreciated the company. Serving food felt like more than a practical task—it became a way to show care and create small moments of connection.

The performance was equally meaningful. Watching the seniors clap, laugh, and engage with our music and skits reminded me how powerful even a short show can be. For many residents, these moments of entertainment and social interaction break the routine and bring genuine joy.

What stood out most was the mutual exchange: we came to give our time and energy, yet we received warmth, gratitude, and perspective in return. Interacting with the seniors reinforced the value of community service and the importance of bridging generations. It was a reminder that simple acts—sharing a meal, offering a performance, taking time to listen—can make a real difference in someone’s day.

I’m grateful for the opportunity and look forward to continuing this kind of service with TCYA.

【Reflection — by Vincent Lane】

Today was our October monthly visit to the Magnolia Senior Center, and we had a pretty good turnout today. We had done bingo for the last 2 visits, so we switched it up today with performances. We had practiced some sign language for a Tzu Shao group performance, but unfortunately we didn't have enough time to do it in the end.

After we finished serving drinks and food, and all the seniors finished eating, we wheeled them to the front. There was a pretty low number of seniors today, only 4. Despite that, we still put on a very good performance that I am sure they will remember fondly.

【Reflection — by Rodrick Liu】

Today’s visit to Magnolia Senior Center was great. We got a new member that joined our TCYA group! As usual, we waited for everyone to arrive. Then we started serving the food to the elders. This time at the senior center I felt like I got to serve more food for the elders. Then we got to rest in the rest room for a while where I got to talk to everyone and I even got to go outside. After reserving the drinks for the elders, we got ready for our performances. I went outside to practice and even got to teach my friend for a bit. Then it was my turn to perform. Even though I messed up, I was glad I got to perform for the elderly to hear. Overall, it was a great day and I hope the next one can be even better.

【Reflection — by Esther Li】

Today we served food and then performed at Magnolia Senior Center.
Serving first turned out to be a good way to start. Spending that time at the residents’ tables meant we had already talked with people before anyone picked up an instrument. By the time we performed, we weren’t strangers walking in with a program. We had already met some of the people we were playing for, and that made the room feel more comfortable.

The performances were varied. Some members played clarinet, others played violin, and I sang “Lavender Blue (Dilly Dilly).” It’s an older song, and I suspect many of the residents knew it already, which changed how I approached it. Instead of focusing on getting every note right, I was thinking about making it feel familiar. I was a little nervous beforehand, but that settled once I started, and it helped that I’d already spent time in the room. Some residents even began to smile or sing along.

Hannah and Alison also joined TCYA today. Their first event involved both singing and performing, so it was a great way to get them introduced to Tzu Chi. After Magnolia, we held our monthly meeting and officer interviews. Having all the Tzu Shaos gathered around a table was such a great way to socialize and have discussions on events we wanted to participate in next and some ideas to expand Tzu Chi.

What stood out to me most was how much of the day’s value came from the less formal parts: the conversations while serving, the familiarity of the song, the way new members settled in. The performance itself was only one piece of it. In the future, I’d like to spend even more time on those interactions, since they seemed to matter most to the people we were there for.

【Reflection — by Noel Baskin】

Today, we went back to Mongolia Senior Living to volunteer. Since we had a member bonding event the day before, we were all energized and excited to help out the residents. Same as the usual, we help serve out the drinks, dishes, and desserts. Afterwards, we got to see performers play music, sing, and dance. I was also able to perform a piece myself. With all the bonding, helping, and performing today, we had a lot of fun and joy together. I hope we will have an even better experience in the future.

【Reflection — by Alison Liu】

Today volunteering at Magnolia Senior Home was honestly so unreal in the best way possible.

I got there early and met up with Acadia and Esther, and we just hung out and grabbed some random snacks while waiting for the rest of everyone to show up. Once the whole group finally got there, we got straight to work, handing out drinks first and then serving everyone's food. After that, we just chilled in the room for a bit waiting for them to finish eating so we could swoop in and clear all the plates.

09/30/2026

2026.09.27 TCYA-Atlanta at The Franklin Johns Creek Senior Living亞特蘭大慈少富蘭克林老人院訪視

【Summary — by Helen Liu, Parent】

As Linlin’s mom, taking her to Franklin Senior Living was something I had looked forward to, yet I didn’t fully realize how moving the morning would become. The children gathered with their instruments, a little nervous at first but ready to share what they had practiced. When the music began, the room seemed to shift. Notes drifted through the space, and I watched as faces that had been quietly waiting lit up with recognition and delight. Linlin played with focused care, and seeing her contribute to that shared moment made me feel both proud and grateful.

What touched me even more was how naturally the morning expanded beyond the performances. Some of the other parents rose and began to dance for the residents, their movements light and joyful, inviting smiles and soft laughter in return. It was no longer just a recital; it became a genuine exchange. The residents responded with open appreciation—clapping, nodding, some even swaying gently in their seats. Their enjoyment was unmistakable, and it reminded me how powerful simple human connection can be, especially across generations.

Leaving Franklin Senior Living that day, I carried a quiet sense of warmth. The children had given their music, the parents had offered movement and energy, and the residents had given us their full attention and sincere pleasure in return. In that brief time together, we created something gentle and lasting—a reminder that sharing what we love, whether through an instrument or a dance, can bridge ages and leave everyone a little fuller than before.

【Reflection — by Angelina Zhao】

On September 27th, I returned to The Franklin for a second performance. As always, I am struck by the kindness and enthusiasm that the seniors emit. As I stepped onto the piano, I was met with eager and passionate faces awaiting the performance of the Tzu Chi volunteers. After each member was finished with their tribute to the amazing yet fun experience we all had, the elderly gave each of us warm smiles and high fives. As we finished with a silly but meaningful dance, I remember the reason I come back every two weeks to care, laugh, and share the warmth and joy with the fellow seniors.

As I am new to the Tzu Chi experience, I was shocked by the amount of joy and excitement that the elderly showed. Of course, I knew they would be excited about the volunteers coming, but I was surprised by the sheer amount of enthusiasm they showed. They are encouraging to each and every member, young or older, and they always make me feel welcome in a space I am still adjusting to.

One grandpa I remember very vividly. He is always the loudest in the room to cheer someone on, and even though he is in a wheelchair, his heart seems more able than anyone’s. Every time I step off the stage, he is smiling at me and gives me a big high five. Him and many others are part of the reason I keep coming back. They bring encouragement and love to the room.

Overall, the experience at The Franklin was like no other. I am grateful for the opportunity to feel the way I do when I step into the role of a volunteer. While I make my way through my Tzu Chu journey, I will remember and appreciate the way that The Franklin has added to my life.

【Reflection — by Linlin Zheng】

I played violin for the residents at Franklin Senior Living, and it was a quiet, meaningful afternoon. The music seemed to reach them—smiles appeared, a few hummed along, and the room felt warmer somehow. Their enjoyment was clear and genuine, a reminder of how simply sharing something you love can create a real connection.

【Reflection — by Steven Lee】

我們這次在敬老院有許多慈少上台表演，像是有慈少表演小提琴、鋼琴、唱歌...等等。但是這次比較特別一點，因為我們這次有準備一首手語表演，曲目叫做：「認識你真好」。雖然這一首手語不難，可是我們有許多慈少，所以我有點擔心在比手語的時候會沒有很整齊。但是我們當天在做最後一次的練習的時候，我發現他們其實都做得很好。而且其實有不少慈少不知道那一首手語，所以我們幾個已經都把那一首手語記起來的慈少就去教他們。我們在教的時候，我發現他們都學的很快。就在我們看完其他人的表演之後，終於換我們上台表演了。我其實有點擔心他們還沒有記起來，但同時我也很期待跟他們一起上台表演。最後雖然還是有點不足的地方，但是我們的表演很成功！所以我覺得如果我們要表演的話，我們需要常常練習，希望下次的敬老院我們還會比手語。

09/22/2026

2026.09.19 TCYA-Atlanta Volunteered at the Annual Lake Lanier Sweep Shore Event亞特蘭大慈少參加「拉尼爾湖」年度湖岸清掃活動

【Reflection—by Yong Qi Huang】

On September 19th, 2026, Tzu Shao members attended the annual Lake Lanier Shore Sweep. Once everyone arrived, we got our gear (gloves and trash bag), took some pictures, then headed our way.

The view of the lake was gorgeous, and it wasn’t that hot because it was still relatively early. We first cleaned up by the beach, then started walking along the shoreline, finding many things along the way.

In particular, some notable things I found were a couple of socks, pieces of plastic, lots of bottle caps, and a whole glass bottle, though some others found some even more audacious objects, like a 3x3 ft styrofoam block.
We walked a considerable length of the shore before the shoreline was deemed too narrow at one point to walk on, so the back end of the group split up from the others and went through the forest and up the hill. The only downside was spiders, which we carefully ducked underneath. Surprisingly, we made our way onto the main road.

From there, we continued picking up whatever trash we saw (some glass pieces, more plastic, a whole shoe) and met up with the others who were below us on the shoreline. Some by the shore made their way up the rocks onto the hill, where we reconvened. After some fuss about fixing a trash bag from where the styrofoam block had broken out, we made our way back to the check-in station to relieve ourselves from our loaded trash bags and get new ones.

Then, once everyone was back, we got our Lake Lanier shirts, and took some group pictures. Afterwards, we headed back to the beach to socialize and practice sign language. It was very fun being able to socialize with everyone and see the lake while being able to contribute towards helping it!

【Reflection—by Jason Liu】

Going to the Lanier Shore Sweep was a fun experience, especially because it wasn’t too hot in the morning. I enjoyed helping clean up the shoreline with everyone. My favorite part was breaking apart and bringing in a large block of material that we found. Overall, I had a good time while also helping make Lake Lanier cleaner.

【Reflection—by Dylan Ng】

Today we were tasked to clean up Lake Lanier and here is what happened. When I got out of the car there was a group of people I did not know and some that I do know, we traveled together learning about each other's opinions and personality. After we cleaned up the lake, we decided to do dances which were really fun. Then, out of nowhere I saw my friend Steven and decided to invite him to the club. He said yes and we leave to go eat, but that was an amazing experience that I will never forget.

【Reflection—by Linlin Zheng】

Arriving at shore
Trash in the water
Empty glasses of spirits laying there
My hands gloved, I pick it up
for it is my duty.
Things that don’t belong in the delicate waters
get picked up piece by piece.
Not for myself, for others.
Not one, but whole.
Glee within each pickup.
An unwavering community
that serves what’s right.
Maybe one day
many can have hearts that rest.
Our service is our pleasure.
Illuminating the darkness with our light.

【Reflection—by Steven Lee】

這幾天我其實很期待去到那裡一起撿垃圾，雖然要比較早起床。然後我們開始去撿垃圾的時候，剛開始我們沒有看到很多垃圾，如果有的話也都是小小的垃圾。之後我們走到比較後面的時候，我們開始看到許多垃圾了。還有一些垃圾讓我很驚訝，像是內褲、女生的衣服、尿布、魚刺...等等。除了這些之外，還有一個垃圾讓我們很困擾，那就是一個巨大的保麗龍！因為那個保麗龍實在是太大了，我們想不到要怎麼拿去丟。當我們還在思考有什麼辦法的時候，我想到了一個好辦法，就是把那個保麗龍切成一塊一塊的。但因為當時我們手邊並沒有可以用來切割的工具，於是我在現場找到了一顆石頭，我用它來把那一塊保麗龍切一切。等切完那一塊保麗龍之後，我們就把那一些保麗龍裝進袋子裡。然後就在我認為我們可以繼續去撿垃圾的時候，我們發現我們的垃圾袋已經都滿了，所以我們就決定先回出發點放置垃圾。當我們把垃圾放好之後，我是有在想要不要再拿一個新的垃圾袋，再回去撿垃圾，可是師姑說我們沒有要再走回去了，我們要來拍大合照。但是因為還有其他組還沒有到，所以我們還沒辦法拍大合照，於是我們就先拍了組別照。等其他組也都到了之後，我們就一起拍了一張大合照。

我們拍完合照之後，我們去到了沙灘練習我們要在敬老院和音樂會表演的一首手語。最後，今天我發現我還蠻喜歡掃岸這個活動，可是我覺得最好的是我們再也不需要去撿垃圾了。只要不亂丟垃圾，有垃圾自己帶走不留痕跡的話，那就不會有這麼多垃圾被遺棄在這麼美好的環境中，那當然就不會需要有人來撿了。所以我希望總有一天大家都可以不用去撿垃圾了，因為沒有垃圾好撿！但是在目前當下，若是下次還有這種機會的話，我一定會參加，因為我期望我們不需要去撿垃圾的那一天可以比較快一點到。

【Reflection—by Acadia Liu】

The lake Lanier cleanup taught me the importance of community. When I arrived, to my surprise, Tzu Chi members were not the only ones there, nor was this event organized by Tzu Chi. many other people took time out of their days to help clean up, and because of that, such an event was organized and created. Not only did the lake Lanier clean up help declutter lake Lanier and get rid of litter, but also brought a community together with a common purpose. Additionally, it was because of such a large community that we were able to accomplish anything; if it was only Tzu Chi members there, we wouldn't have gotten nearly as much done. We all helped each other, to help the environment.

【Reflection—by Ily Ng】

Picking up trash at Lake Lanier was actually more fun than I expected. I did see a lot of people I know there and it was fun finding interesting things with them while picking trash. I really like this group and I can't wait to make more memories with all my new friends.

【Reflection—by Alison Liu】

Today I went to pick up trash at Lake Lanier. First when I arrived, I signed in at this table and went to another table to get gloves, a trash bag and met up with all the Tzu Shaos to take a picture. After we were all there, we headed down to the shore to start picking up trash. We walked around the shore for about an hour but then we got separated. Some of the girls, including me, went up the mountain to see if there was any trash up there. Instead, there were tons of spiders and bugs and Acadia screamed because of a spider. After we walked all the way to the top and found a nice clear passageway with no spiders and found more trash there. When we were up there, we also met up with other Tzu Shaos. We carried back the trash to the main area and got water and some snacks. Acadia then wanted to put the bows on all the boys' hair which was hilarious. She then got kind of pi**ed because Allen and Jason didn’t put the bows on. We then took a picture with everyone again and the boys with the bows on. We went back to the shore where we practiced sign language for our performance at the senior home and a charity event. We then swarmed this guy so we can recruit him to our organization. My brother then started skipping stones and threw a huge rock into the lake which was not ideal and Acadia also made this really cute TCYA logo. After that, m, Luci and my brother made this cool sand flowing thingy and it was really fun! At the end we all got water and got lunch after.

09/15/2026

2026.09.13 TCYA-Atlanta at Magnolia Senior Living, Sugar Hill亞特蘭大慈少老人院訪視

【Summary — by Helen Liu, Parent】

Today we visited Magnolia Senior Living to serve food and later play bingo with the residents. It was a simple afternoon of service, yet it left a lasting impression—especially since it fell on National Grandparents Day.

As TCYO members, we also made cards for the elderly in honor of the occasion. Writing personal notes and decorating the cards beforehand already felt meaningful, but handing them out made it even more special. Many residents held the cards carefully, smiling as they read the messages. A few shared stories about their own grandchildren or simply thanked us with quiet emotion. Those small, handmade gestures seemed to brighten their day in a way that went beyond the meal itself.

Serving the food felt meaningful right away. Many of the residents moved slowly or needed help, and some struggled with their trays. As we passed plates and checked if anyone needed extra assistance, their faces lit up with gratitude. A few shared quiet stories about their families or asked about our day. Those brief conversations, paired with the cards we had given them, reminded me how powerful small acts of kindness can be—something as ordinary as a meal or a handwritten note can make someone feel seen and cared for.

After the meal we moved into the common area for bingo. The energy shifted quickly. What started as a calm room filled with chatter and laughter as numbers were called. Residents leaned forward in their chairs, marked their cards with care, and cheered when someone won. Watching them light up over a game so simple was touching. The joy was genuine and contagious. In those moments, age and circumstance faded; we were just people sharing a lighthearted activity together on a day set aside to honor grandparents and elders.

Reflecting on the visit, I am struck by how much the residents gave us in return. Their warmth, patience, and willingness to engage reminded me of the value of connection across generations. It is easy to overlook the elderly in our busy lives, yet an afternoon like this—serving a meal, playing bingo, and offering cards on National Grandparents Day—shows how much life, humor, and wisdom they still hold. Serving and spending time with them was not just an act of giving; it was a reminder of community, of the quiet dignity that comes with age, and of how little it takes to brighten someone’s day.

I left Magnolia feeling grateful for the experience and more aware of the difference even a few hours can make.

【Reflection — by Vincent Lane】

Today, volunteers from Tzu Shao went back to the Magnolia Senior Living Center, and while we had less people this time than last time, I think we made a much bigger impact.

After we got all of the residents’ lunch served, we went into our little room to begin writing cards. Today was National Grandparents Appreciation Day, and we wanted to honor the sacrifices that grandparents make for not only their kids and grandkids, but for their communities as well. Everyone had a ton of fun making their cards, and when we gave them out, it warmed my heart to see the residents’ gratitude.

After that, we played bingo, and since there were more residents this time, it was very lively, and I could tell all the residents were having fun.

Today was a lot of fun, and I can’t wait for the next visit!

【Reflection — by Acadia Liu】

This Magnolia volunteering day was like no other, considering it was Grandparents Day. Many of the seniors in Magnolia had grandchildren, but many also didn't. We decided to write appreciation cards to all of the seniors, in order to show that they made our days better. The smiles stretching across their faces when we gave them the cards were priceless. Additionally, we played bingo with the seniors. Their laughs, smiles, and competitive spirit filled the room as they all enjoyed themselves, precisely what we aimed to do.

【Reflection — by Alison Liu】

When I first arrived at Magnolia I went to meet up with all of the other Tzu Shaos. We were about to plan but then realized that… a person was late? It was Vincent that was late, so then we had to wait for him. After approximately 18 minutes, he was finally here. We then started planning because today is National Grandparents Day! After we served everyone drinks and food, we went into the room to make cards for them. We then went out to clear their tables and handed out all of the cards. We then had three rounds of bingo with everyone and everyone had a smile on their face afterwards. HAPPY NATIONAL GRANDPARENTS DAY!

【Reflection — by Yumin Yau】

I went to the senior living home on Grandparents Day, I was late due to my mom having work. I walk in and I saw my peers working on cards for the seniors. I ended up making two cards that I got to pass out. After we played bingo, I ended up winning a round. I had so much fun hanging out with everyone.

【Reflection — by Esther Li】

Today was one of those volunteer days that reminds me why I keep coming back to Magnolia. It was Grandparents Appreciation Day, and our group from Tzu Chi spent the morning making it special for the residents.

We started by serving food to the residents. Then we moved on to making handmade cards and drawings for them. There was something meaningful about sitting together with markers and paper, drawing simple pictures and writing messages of gratitude, such as “thank you for bringing joy into people’s lives”. After passing out the cards to each grandparent, we watched as their faces lit up upon reading our cards. It was a small gesture, but many residents felt deeply touched by it.

This visit also marked the introduction of two Tzu Shao volunteers, Angelina and Samuel. It was nice watching them interact with the seniors and settle in as the morning passed. By the time bingo started, both seemed at ease and were enjoying themselves.

The bingo session that followed was calm and unhurried, with many Tzu Shaos sitting by the seniors to keep them company. Occasionally, a resident would shout “bingo” and a Tzu Shao would go around with the prize basket.

Reflecting on this visit, I was struck by how small our time commitment was compared to the impact it clearly had on the residents. Watching Angelina and Samuel's first experience as volunteers also renewed my own appreciation for this work. Overall, it was a simple but meaningful day of service.

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