CityU and Disney VoluntEARS create magic for over 40 children from underprivileged families with “KidSing”

More than 40 children from bereaved and single parent families, along with their family members, enjoyed a day of Disney stories, songs and games today (18 October 2008), thanks to KidSing, a community project driven by Disney VoluntEARS and students from the Department of Applied Social Studies of City University of Hong Kong (CityU).

Project KidSing was designed to encourage and inspire children from troubled backgrounds through stories, songs and activities that promote friendship and mutual support.

“CityU’s curriculum emphasises both theoretical education and practical training. This project has served as an ideal platform for our students to leverage knowledge learnt from classroom training on the one hand, and to provide them with an opportunity to enrich their skills working with bereaved children on the other,” said Professor Alex Kwan Yui-huen, Head of the Department of Applied Social Studies.

“Giving to the community is an integral part of the Disney culture.,” said Mr B C Lo, Vice President of Public Affairs, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. “And in keeping with our vision of promoting the welfare of children, we are glad to have the opportunity to drive and lead  the‘KidSing’ project with the support of CityU, our first volunteer partner from the world of academia. By working with undergraduates, academia and non-profit organizations on the programme, our Disney VoluntEARS hope to support young bereaved children by creating some special Disney magic,” he continued.

Ms Cheung and Mrs Chan, parents of participating children, expressed their gratitude and appreciation to the Disney VoluntEARS, student volunteers from CityU and other participating organisations. They said their kids had a fantastic day.

To get along with children from bereaved or single parent families well, patience and a discerning eye were important according to Ng Wai-wan and Leung Ka-lo, Year 3 students from the Department of Applied Social Studies who initiated the project. “We were delighted to see the children enjoy happy moments with us. We were also happy to see that the parents trusted us,” they said.

The students were also grateful for the support of the Department and the freedom and guidance their teachers had given to them throughout the project to make it a success.

KidSing has been created for children aged between six and 12. Three sessions have been held since 20 September 2008. Disney VoluntEARS, students from CityU and Tung Wah Group of Hospitals served as carers sharing encouraging and inspirational stories with the children, singing songs and playing games. Through the activities, the children learnt about the bravery of Simba (in The Lion King) and Aladdin. The project was also supported by the Comfort Care Concern Group and the Paraclete – Care and Comfort Angel of the S.K.H. Holycarpenter District Elderly Community Centre.

______

CityU excels in professional education and applied research.

______

Media enquiries: Scarlett Leung, Communications Office, CityU (3442 6807 or 9460 3099).