Light Up Chinatown

Light Up Chinatown: A Celebration of Heritage, Community, and Giving Back

In partnership with the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation and the GoGivers Foundation, the Light Up Chinatown initiative brought together over 200 youth in a dynamic blend of cultural exploration, historical education, and community service. Through an interactive Chinese-Canadian history scavenger hunt, a dim sum luncheon, and a large-scale care package distribution in the Downtown Eastside (DTES), the event exemplified the power of youth-driven collaboration in fostering inclusivity, empathy, and cultural pride.

Connecting Through Food: Dim Sum Luncheon

Food has always been an essential bridge between generations, cultures, and histories. The dim sum luncheon was designed to create an environment where participants could engage in meaningful conversations while enjoying a staple of Cantonese cuisine. By sharing traditional dishes, attendees were encouraged to reflect on the role of food in preserving heritage, fostering connection, and building cross-cultural appreciation.

Exploring History: The Scavenger Hunt

The Chinese-Canadian history scavenger hunt challenged participants to uncover significant but often overlooked stories of Asian-Canadian perseverance. Through an engaging, hands-on experience, students learned about key moments in history, including the struggles faced by early Chinese immigrants, the building of the Canadian Pacific Railway, and the long fight for equality and recognition. This immersive approach aimed to deepen understanding and inspire a commitment to social justice.

Giving Back: Downtown Eastside Dim Sum Distribution

In collaboration with GoGivers Foundation, over 300 dim sum care packages were distributed to residents of the Downtown Eastside (DTES). Rooted in the Asian values of compassion and sharing through food, this initiative aimed to support some of the city's most vulnerable communities while reinforcing the importance of collective responsibility.

The Impact of Collaboration

Light Up Chinatown was more than just an event—it was a testament to the power of unity, cultural celebration, and social impact. By bringing together youth, community leaders, and non-profit organizations, the initiative demonstrated that meaningful change begins with small, intentional actions. Through food, history, and service, participants not only honored the past but also contributed to a more inclusive and compassionate future.