YMCA of Hong Kong: We Didn't Just Decorate a Space —We Planted a Forest of Hope "Meaningful Christmas Tree 2025" Exhibition

YMCA of Hong Kong "Meaningful Christmas Tree 2025" Exhibition:

We Didn't Just Decorate a Space —We Planted a Forest of Hope

In December 2025, YMCA of Hong Kong unveiled the "Meaningful Christmas Tree 100" exhibition. Christmas is a time of hope. Transforming the atrium of The Salisbury into a forest of hope, the display featured 125 unique Christmas cards crafted from recycled toys, celebrating the 125th anniversary of the YMCA movement in Hong Kong in 2026. Each card stood as a vibrant symbol of environmental stewardship, creative expression, and collective community care.

This installation was more than a seasonal display—it was a living narrative of connection. Every "Recycled Toy Art Christmas Cards" told a story of renewal, collaboration, and shared blessing, brought to life through the combined efforts of individuals, corporate partners, young artists, YMCAHK staff, and children from across our community.

Building on the success of previous initiatives, this year marked the third years of the YMCAHK's "Meaningful Christmas Tree" project. The journey from concept to realization represented months of dedicated effort, uniting volunteers, staff, and corporate partners with our Toy Reborn initiative. By repurposing forgotten toys into expressions of joy, we brought the Sustainable Planet pillar of YMCA Vision 2030 to life in a tangible, inspiring way.

Volunteers from corporate partners worked alongside YMCAHK staff and local children, transforming recycled materials into treasures. This hands-on collaboration not only demonstrated the value of Meaningful Work but also fostered Community Wellbeing, inclusivity, and fairness—cornerstones of Just World and central to YMCA Vision 2030 built on the foundation of Christian faith.

We extend our deepest gratitude to every supporter and volunteer whose contributions—whether of resources or time—made this vision possible. The true impact of this event extends far beyond 125 Christmas cards; it lies in the lasting hope offered to our community, turning discarded toys into enduring symbols of love for those in need. Furthermore, Toy Reborn will soon partner with organizations to donate suitable toys to underprivileged children in Cambodia, spreading festive blessings across borders.

Together, we didn't just decorate a space—we planted a forest of hope.

Erica Ngai

Communications & Engagement Manager

YMCA of Hong Kong