Together We Thrive: The Power of Staff Volunteering for Community
To encourage staff to contribute their time and resources to the community, the HKUST Impact Makers Program has been offering various opportunities through a range of events organized for different beneficiaries.
In November, 20 enthusiastic HKUST students and staff came together for an inspiring Small Electronic Appliance Maintenance Volunteer Training Workshop organized by HKUST Connect and the Sustainability/Net-Zero Office. Led by Household Electronics Reborn and sponsored by the Zonta Club of Victoria HK, participants learned vital safety tips and essential maintenance skills. Our volunteers engaged in hands-on repairs, giving new life to electronic fans, which will be donated to communities in need, making a meaningful impact.
“I had a rewarding experience at the Small Electronic Appliance Maintenance Workshop. Working in a small group, we learned essential repair skills and safety guidelines while fixing a fan. This hands-on experience not only empowered us to help others but also fostered teamwork and community spirit. I encourage my colleagues to join in and make a positive impact on those in need!” shared Ricky Hui, Office and the Dean of Business and Management .
Before the final exam period, the Dean of Students Office, Co-curricular Programs, and the Sustainability/Net-Zero Office called on staff to support “Pack and Cheer.” This initiative involved writing handwritten notes to show care and support for students while preparing gift packs with fellow colleagues. The gift packs were distributed to students during the Pause @atrium event, which included a mood monsters coloring activity.
Additionally, HKUST participated as the sole university in the Inter-Company Volunteer Week in December organized by Time Auction for the second consecutive year. During this campaign, 49 companies and organizations pooled their time and effort to volunteer across Hong Kong, engaging in activities ranging from sharing knowledge with underprivileged children to spreading festive joy with elders and caring for animals at shelters. The campaign saw over 1,100 volunteers contributing more than 3,000 hours to 34 NGOs and social enterprises. HKUST had 36 staff members participate in 23 different volunteering events, showcasing our collective efforts.
“I’ve participated in a ‘Fun Day with Love21 Foundation,’ where 30 volunteers from UBS, HSBC, and MTR interacted with youngsters who have Down syndrome and are part of the neurodiversity community through art and craft, fitness sessions, and Zumba classes. Seeing the kids’ genuine smiles and their enjoyment of the fitness moves reminded me that happiness is simple and contagious. Volunteering goes beyond helping those in need; it's about sharing joy in both directions,” said Cindy Yeung, Development & Alumni Office.
Maggie Yuen from the Campus Services Office reflected, “I want to thank the organizer for this amazing opportunity to connect the children with the lovely therapy dogs to experience mindfulness. We had a wonderful afternoon filled with warmth, relaxation, and joy. After the volunteer event, I felt a sense of fulfillment and joy. I could see the children leaving with joyful smiles.”
As part of the Inter-Company Volunteer Week, the HKUST Campus Management Office also hosted a Sustainable Landscaping Volunteer Workshop in December. Collaborating with dedicated volunteers from UBS and MTR, we embraced sustainable landscaping practices to benefit our campus and community. Under the guidance of our Arborist, Wicky Lee, and the Landscaping Team, volunteers learned how to enhance our vibrant environment and promote local biodiversity. Activities included mowing the LG7 lawn and applying wood chips on the LG5 bridge link to improve soil quality and water retention while reducing weeds.
Before wrapping up the year 2025, staff volunteers supported the beach clean-up in Pak Shui Wun near campus and “Drop & Adopt” campaign. During the student hall move-out period, we collected a range of bedding, appliances, and household items from student residents. We called for volunteers and green team members to sort and prepare these items for distribution back to our community, promoting reuse and warmly welcoming new students!
As we move forward, we invite all staff members of the HKUST community to join us in these rewarding initiatives. Your time and effort can make a significant difference in the lives of others. Together, we can nurture a spirit of compassion and community and be a part of this impactful journey!
