After a day of volunteering in Queens' Cunningham Park, CCIP's J-1 interns enjoyed a group BBQ.

The CCIP exchange visitors came to Queens' 358-acre Cunningham Park this past Saturday to do their part as volunteers by raking leaves, picking up trash, and helping with the care of the lawns. This was an opportunity to learn about the spirit of volunteerism, a central tenet of American culture, while also gaining a greater appreciation for the community that they are living among.

When their work was done, the interns enjoyed a BBQ together as they relaxed after their day of volunteering and had a conversation about what they have learned and experienced while interning in New York City.

Marc Haken, and Harbachan Singh, both members of Community Board 8 in Queens and advisers for CCIP, joined in the activity. Marc Haken is also president of the Friends of Cunningham Park, and helped the students apply for the necessary BBQ permit.

"Volunteering is a wonderful addition to my growing experiences interning and living in New York City," Hayley, a student at the University of Hong Kong, remarked of the event.

"This opportunity was especially fruitful. Both the volunteering and our BBQ in this beautiful park were great chances to interact with other participants and gain insights from the senior advisors," said Cathy Li from Macau. "I have to express my thanks to the student leaders for putting this event together and also my thanks to Mr. Haken and Singh for helping us get the BBQ permit."