On February 5th, 2021, AYLUS’s Rancho Santa Margarita Branch donated Lunar New Year items to their local high school’s Chinese language and culture teacher, Tesoro High School’s Ms. Ng. In celebration of the beginning of the Year of the Ox, members donated auspicious items including strawberry candies, fans, paper lanterns, banners, and more to enhance Chinese education and bring a cheerful mood to an otherwise difficult year.
Some chose to hand-cut beautiful banners, with the Mandarin Chinese word for spring created within while others purchased fun items that symbolically held deep meaning. As one of the most important holidays of the Lunar Calendar, it was a time for a celebration of new events and a fresh start of hope. Each member also received a red packet with a dollar and a chocolate coin to take home in honor of the holiday and tradition. The activity was a chance to stay connected and build relationships with many members’ heritage in a safe manner. All felt grateful for the love spread and friendships built.
Allison & Katie: 5 hours
Diana, Steven, Ethan, Jane, Eva, Stella, Jasmine, Emily, Henry: 4 hours