CHI greeted neighbors and guests in front of CHI Headquarters in San Rafael, CA this past Saturday with over 300 free face masks ready to pass out to the local community.
CHI co-founder Tom Areton led the event, along with a few staff members dressed in gloves and masks. The face masks were donated by CHI’s dedicated Chinese student exchange partner, CSCEE, located in Beijing.
CSCEE has sent hundreds of volunteer exchange students to the U.S. with CHI over the years. CHI knew that the best way to use this gift was to share it with neighbors in the local community, to help keep everyone safe.
The event generated an enthusiastic response, with many asking if the face masks were really free. “Yes!” replied the staff in unison! One man said he was tired of wearing a bandana and looking like a bank robber. He happily accepted a face mask that fit him well.
Many were also interested in learning more about the wonderful exchange programs that CHI provides. Tom, who can communicate in 10 different languages, was able to speak Russian with a neighbor from Latvia. A family of four on bikes were the final group to stop by and receive a free face mask before the event ended for the day.
All remaining face masks were donated to the American Red Cross and local hospitals.
CHI’s mission is to bring people together – whether it’s through quality exchange programs, or with a little community love when times get tough.
