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SCMP Reporter

FOR 29 children from the Tsuen Wan Squatter Association, it was their first junk-trip around the Hong Kong islands.

  The excited children gathered at Queen's Pier recently at the invitation of the Young Professionals Committee (YPC) of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong (AmCham).

   These YPC members are from 25 to 35 years of age and come from career backgrounds, such as banking, law, the media, commerce and public relations.

  ''Our main idea was to spend a day with the children and do something with them that they had never had a chance to do before,'' said Mr Mitch Presnick, the chairman of AmCham YPC.

  In fact, it was soon clear that the children had not had boating experience before as many turned pale and felt queasy after embarking.

  While this put a damper on the on-board lunch, the young sailors quickly recovered their enthusiasm on arrival at their destination.

  Rowing boats ferried the laughing youngsters ashore, as the older ones swam to the beach 25 metres away.

  Once everyone was safely landed, the games began.

   YPC members taught the children such favourites as the three-legged race, egg and spoon race, and wheelbarrow challenge. The later involves one member of a pair picking up the legs of the other who walks on their hands in a ''wheelbarrow'' position, racing against other pairs to the finish line.

  ''We purposely arranged games that required team work, so that each YPC volunteer could have a chance to work together with the children. This way we could be closer to them and let them know that we are happy to be here, ''said Mr Michael Maddess, the vice-chairman of AmCham YPC.

  ''Donating money to charities is one thing, but spending time with those in need is another.

  ''Since we're all young energetic executives, without family burdens yet, we want to contribute to the community in the best possible way,'' he said.

  The day was clearly a success as, when it came time to leave, the children clamoured for an extended stay on the beach.

  Their wish was granted and they continued their Field Day for another hour.

  Each child was presented with a stuffed cuddly monkey as a reminder of the fun day they had enjoyed with AmCham's young Americans.



Kids join executives on fun trip