Jackie Chan was in Beijing on August 6 to attend Operation Smile's International Student Cultural Exchange, where over 800 college and high school students from 23 countries around the world gathered to learn firsthand how to enhance their knowledge of global cultures, strengthen their character, and develop into future philanthropic leaders.
Credit/Copyright: Facebook
For almost 2 decades, Jackie Chan has helped to spread awareness for children suffering from cleft lip and cleft palate and Operation Smile’s work in China. In 1993, he donated $2 million (HK) and an anesthesia machine to help Operation Smile provide free surgeries for more children in China.
For his many years of generous support and advocacy of Operation Smile’s work, Jackie Chan was named an International Smile Ambassador for Operation Smile China medical mission. In Hangzhou, he has toured Operation Smile China’s Comprehensive Care Center, China’s first charity hospital, and lent his support for many fundraising events in Hong Kong. In 2009, during Operation Smile’s 20th anniversary commemoration of its work in Vietnam, Jackie Chan along with Operation Smile Co-Founders Dr. Bill and Kathy Magee received the National Medal for Peace and Friendship Among Nations award from the Vietnamese government. He also took part in an operation to correct a cleft palate.
“I have experienced very personally how this surgery is life-changing and I am honored to have been a part of this program with you,” he said. “I’m so happy today seeing nearly 800 student volunteers for Operation Smile who have come to Beijing from all over the world. I’m impressed by their love and willingness to help others. I see hope in them. Thank you Operation Smile for teaching me how to be a good human and be able to help others.”
The ISCE was hosted by Operation Smile, an international children’s medical charity that provides free surgery for children in developing countries who were born with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities. Students participated in team-building activities that celebrated their diversity. This year’s motto – Now is the Time! – was incorporated throughout the ISCE, motivating students to make a difference in the world today.
The goal of ISCE was to educate students on the value of service in their communities and help them establish a lifetime of giving.
Photo via Facebook.
