This summer was made special by the people who came together to make a difference. In August, we gathered at Guofeng Technology Building for our Summer Appreciation Party. Throughout the summer, volunteers, interns, and the Stepping Stones team worked together behind the scenes and in the classroom. They prepared lessons, shared knowledge and, most importantly, spent time with the children and witnessed their growth.
This evening was a chance to pause, come together, and celebrate the people who made this summer possible.
A Slice of Pizza, A New Connection
The evening began with a little teamwork and a lot of pizza!
Our Stepping Stones team arrived early to set everything up and welcome everyone at the registration desk.
To help volunteers and interns from different programs get to know one another, we prepared a Pizza Puzzle Icebreaker. Everyone received a piece of a pizza card and had to find others with matching pieces to complete the whole pizza. Once they did, they could collect a Stepping Stones badge or a special postcard. With a little searching, chatting, and teamwork, new connections quickly began to form.
And, of course, everyone enjoyed plenty of food along the way, including fruit, snacks, and delicious pizzas generously provided by our long-time friends at Homeslice.
Looking Back on a Summer of Growth
Our host opened the evening with heartfelt thanks to everyone who had contributed throughout the summer.
The Deputy Executive Director and program managers then took the stage to look back on the summer programs and share how students had grown through English, digital literacy, social-emotional learning, summer camp, and a wide range of other programs.
The applause, smiles, and proud moments celebrated not only the progress made by the children, but also the efforts of everyone who had helped make that progress possible.
Sparking Moments of the Night
Of course, there was plenty of time to celebrate!
Student Cao Zixi brought us a dance performance titled anti-Utopia, followed by Li Yunyun with her dance Distant Longing.
Volunteer Wang Junwei performed Change Myself, while intern Lily sang When I Was Your Man.
With music, dancing, and plenty of applause, the room quickly filled with energy and laughter.
Pass the Mic!
The fun continued with a game of Pass the Mic! As the drumbeat played, the microphone was passed around the room. When the music stopped, whoever was holding the microphone had to answer a question.
Some questions were about volunteering and commuting, while others were simply about everyday life, pets, and dreams.
“How long does it take you to commute?”
“Do you have any pets?”
“What was your dream when you were a child?”
Between laughter and unexpected answers, everyone got to know one another a little better.
Celebrating Our Star Volunteers
For Stepping Stones, volunteers are at the heart of everything we do.
During the evening, we recognised our Star Volunteers — those who have stayed involved in our volunteer programs for three semesters or more. Three semesters, four semesters, and beyond. Every lesson, every preparation, and every moment spent with students represents a commitment to making a difference.
We are deeply grateful to every long-term volunteer who has continued to show up, share their time, and bring their energy and care into the classroom.
A Little Bit of Luck
We also prepared one more surprise—Lucky Draw! Eight lucky volunteers went home with Stepping Stones canvas bags and special gifts.
With cheers, laughter, and a few happy surprises, we brought this summer evening to a close.
Special thanks to HomeSlice Pizza for providing a variety of pizzas for free, and to Guofeng Technology for providing the event venue.
Thank You for Being Part of Our Summer
This summer, we have become a closer community thanks to everyone who joined us.As the children learned, experienced, and grew in the classroom, we also grew together.
We extend our gratitude to every volunteer, intern, and partner, as well as everyone who dedicated their time and passion to this summer.
It is because of you that Stepping Stones can go even further with every step we take.
