The Year of The Dragon: Crossroads

Crossroads is a nonprofit linking resources and needs. It was started by accident by an expatriate couple in Hong Kong back in the 1990s. Well, it may not have been an accident, but they happened into it, and Crossroads has been growing ever since.

The location has a uniquely redemptive vibe. The foundation lives on an old army barracks –– about three acres and several buildings. On the grounds are apartments for dozens of international and local volunteers, warehouses for donated goods, a free-trade coffee shop and gift store, and a team of interactive "Global Xperiences." These experiences put the 'in' in 'innovative.' They educate people in the 'Developed World,' about struggles of the 'Developing World' by immersing them in real time scenarios (poverty, HIV/AIDs, refugee camps, and more). For example, in the poverty scenario, students are divided into groups, camped in a rundown section of the barracks, given a certain amount of money, and a way of income – such as collecting newspapers for recycling ($2 a day). Whichever group gets out of poverty first, wins. Before long, an actor comes along – the landlord – and he demands his monthly rent, which the students can't afford. Other crises come up as well while the students frantically work at the papers.

I wasn't actually a part of this scenario, but our school did it last year. Some of the students got frustrated and started thinking of ways they could get out faster. They're solution was simple: 'borrow money' from the other team, and 'flirt' with the landlord to get a lower rent. I think it's telling that they're immediate 'go to' plan was theft and prostitution.

Our school has four community service days each year, and this year we've been to Crossroads for three of them. We haven't done any of the 'Global Xperiences,' but the students have had multiple possibilities to help out. One of the more valuable opportunities afforded by Crossroads is the chance to mingle with the volunteer staff. Everyone working there is a volunteer, some are sponsored by churches or organizations, but none are paid by the foundation. Several of them come from countries littered with poverty and aids and refugee camps. Their diverse stories and spirit of service embody Crossroad's mission.