A big thanks to our Communications Coordinators for capturing these playful moments. Photos from top to bottom by Andrés Barreno, Patricia Calderón, Sarah Jane Velasco and Javier Cárcamo.
Showing posts with label Tabaco. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tabaco. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
An Unconditional Friendship
If you’re a pet lover like I am, then you know that pets just make life a little nicer. It’s a shared human experience to care for other animals, and whether you live in a large comfortable home or one made out of discarded materials like many of the families we help, pets offer loyal companionship that can’t be bought. A stray dog or cat, a fish or even a turtle can be the perfect thing to bring a little bit of happiness to a poor child; a friend and playmate who loves them for who they are, regardless of the poverty they live in. Their situation doesn’t diminish their ability to love and care for a pet in the least. Just take a look at these children and the pets they adore.
Fausto in Quito, Ecuador carries his puppies everywhere.
Antony, Juan and Julieth in Barranquilla, Colombia play with turtles in their neighborhood.
Brothers Vincent and Charlie show off boy’s best friend in Tabaco, Philippines.
Wilmer in Rural Guatemala takes great care of his cat - even if the cat will never admit it. (Wilmer is also waiting for a sponsor to care for him. Hint. Hint.)
A big thanks to our Communications Coordinators for capturing these playful moments. Photos from top to bottom by Andrés Barreno, Patricia Calderón, Sarah Jane Velasco and Javier Cárcamo.
A big thanks to our Communications Coordinators for capturing these playful moments. Photos from top to bottom by Andrés Barreno, Patricia Calderón, Sarah Jane Velasco and Javier Cárcamo.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Sponsored Children Express their Dreams through Art
Each year our sponsored children participate in Children International’s art contest and express themselves with paint, crayons, pencils and color pastels. Sarah Jane Velasco, Communications Coordinator in Tabaco, Philippines shares just what these drawings and paintings mean to needy children.
Dreams are limitless…even the harsh realities of poverty cannot stop a child from dreaming of a better future. The artwork from this year’s workshop clearly proves this.
Children International’s annual art contest provides an opportunity to sponsored children and youth with a knack for the arts to further develop their potential. It gives them an avenue for artistic expression through drawing and painting. With “dreams” as the theme, colorful sketches of pilots, policemen, teachers, engineers, doctors, and performers in thought bubbles and other abstract representations were drawn.
For these children, the drawings are reminders of things to hope for and a promise of better days ahead. It challenges them to strive hard so that someday their dreams will be realized. Knowing that education is the key to achieving their dreams, these drawings motivate them to continue their studies and do well in school. It also gets the message across other poor children “to continue dreaming and to discover their talents” said Tisha Mae Sanchez, one of the winners in the art contest.
But it is noteworthy that at their age, these children dream not only for themselves but for their families as well. They want to become somebody someday so that they will be able to help younger siblings finish their studies and likewise chase their own dreams.
In the borderless world of dreams, using only oil pastels and canvass as their tool, these children are given the freedom to choose whoever they want to be. And if their paintings are any indicator, a bright and colorful future awaits them.
Jayson Beloso, one of our featured waiting children, found a sponsor through the blog and won 3rd place for his age group in Tabaco. Way to go Jayson!
Dreams are limitless…even the harsh realities of poverty cannot stop a child from dreaming of a better future. The artwork from this year’s workshop clearly proves this.
Children International’s annual art contest provides an opportunity to sponsored children and youth with a knack for the arts to further develop their potential. It gives them an avenue for artistic expression through drawing and painting. With “dreams” as the theme, colorful sketches of pilots, policemen, teachers, engineers, doctors, and performers in thought bubbles and other abstract representations were drawn.
For these children, the drawings are reminders of things to hope for and a promise of better days ahead. It challenges them to strive hard so that someday their dreams will be realized. Knowing that education is the key to achieving their dreams, these drawings motivate them to continue their studies and do well in school. It also gets the message across other poor children “to continue dreaming and to discover their talents” said Tisha Mae Sanchez, one of the winners in the art contest.
But it is noteworthy that at their age, these children dream not only for themselves but for their families as well. They want to become somebody someday so that they will be able to help younger siblings finish their studies and likewise chase their own dreams.
In the borderless world of dreams, using only oil pastels and canvass as their tool, these children are given the freedom to choose whoever they want to be. And if their paintings are any indicator, a bright and colorful future awaits them.
Jayson Beloso, one of our featured waiting children, found a sponsor through the blog and won 3rd place for his age group in Tabaco. Way to go Jayson!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Joy and Fulfillment through Volunteering
Posted on behalf of Sarah Jane Velasco, Communications Coordinator in Tabaco, Philippines.
Ermilinda Bigol has been a volunteer mother for almost five years now. She is also a widow single-handedly raising five children.
Considering that her hands are already full with family responsibilities, how Ate Emmy (Sister Emmy), as she is fondly called in the community, manages to devote time to volunteer in the sponsorship program is indeed a wonder. But for her, it’s just a matter of time management and setting priorities: “Family comes first and volunteering follows closely.”
Since her husband died in a vehicular accident years ago, she had to learn to accept the fact that she must raise five children on her own. She knew it wouldn’t be easy, but she had to step up to it. The family gets by with the monthly pension she receives after the death of her husband. But for a family of seven, including Ate Emmy’s mother, a Php 3000 monthly budget is not enough, especially if all of her five children are in school. Because of this, she decided to go into rope-making. If done alone, it would take some time before a person could weave one bundle of rope. That is why the whole family shares this task, taking turns weaving bundle after bundle.
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At 4:30 in the morning, Ate Emmy gets up to prepare breakfast for the family and begins weaving rope. By 5, two of her children are already up to help. After three hours, they already have 70 bundles of rope. Also by this time, the kids are all set to go to school. After going through her domestic routine, Ate Emmy transforms from being the super mom to being a tireless volunteer.
In her five years of serving as a CI volunteer, she’s already gone through some ups and downs. According to her, handling an area with almost a thousand sponsored children is not an easy feat. She has to deal with the parents, regular requirements, CI staff and fellow volunteers. “I think the key is proper communication and leading by example. I try to be honest with them, give them the facts, and tell them what we have to do. They know I’m not doing it for myself, so we help each other out,” she added.
Despite her seemingly tireless efforts, Ate Emmy admits that being a mother and a volunteer can be exhausting at times but “the satisfaction I get makes the hard work worthwhile.” This plus her acknowledgement of the help the sponsorship program extends to her two children is what keeps her going. “As a widow, having two of my children sponsored is really a blessing. The assistance we get is already a big help.”
“As a mother, seeing my children grow up to be good individuals is more than enough reward; as a volunteer, knowing that I’m able to help even in a small way and getting personal affirmations tells me that I’m doing the job right, and that keeps me motivated,” said Ate Emmy.
Ermilinda Bigol has been a volunteer mother for almost five years now. She is also a widow single-handedly raising five children.
Considering that her hands are already full with family responsibilities, how Ate Emmy (Sister Emmy), as she is fondly called in the community, manages to devote time to volunteer in the sponsorship program is indeed a wonder. But for her, it’s just a matter of time management and setting priorities: “Family comes first and volunteering follows closely.”
Since her husband died in a vehicular accident years ago, she had to learn to accept the fact that she must raise five children on her own. She knew it wouldn’t be easy, but she had to step up to it. The family gets by with the monthly pension she receives after the death of her husband. But for a family of seven, including Ate Emmy’s mother, a Php 3000 monthly budget is not enough, especially if all of her five children are in school. Because of this, she decided to go into rope-making. If done alone, it would take some time before a person could weave one bundle of rope. That is why the whole family shares this task, taking turns weaving bundle after bundle.
.jpg)
At 4:30 in the morning, Ate Emmy gets up to prepare breakfast for the family and begins weaving rope. By 5, two of her children are already up to help. After three hours, they already have 70 bundles of rope. Also by this time, the kids are all set to go to school. After going through her domestic routine, Ate Emmy transforms from being the super mom to being a tireless volunteer.
In her five years of serving as a CI volunteer, she’s already gone through some ups and downs. According to her, handling an area with almost a thousand sponsored children is not an easy feat. She has to deal with the parents, regular requirements, CI staff and fellow volunteers. “I think the key is proper communication and leading by example. I try to be honest with them, give them the facts, and tell them what we have to do. They know I’m not doing it for myself, so we help each other out,” she added.
Despite her seemingly tireless efforts, Ate Emmy admits that being a mother and a volunteer can be exhausting at times but “the satisfaction I get makes the hard work worthwhile.” This plus her acknowledgement of the help the sponsorship program extends to her two children is what keeps her going. “As a widow, having two of my children sponsored is really a blessing. The assistance we get is already a big help.”
“As a mother, seeing my children grow up to be good individuals is more than enough reward; as a volunteer, knowing that I’m able to help even in a small way and getting personal affirmations tells me that I’m doing the job right, and that keeps me motivated,” said Ate Emmy.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Adding to a Youth’s Potential
Posted on behalf of Sarah Jane Velasco, Communications Coordinator in Tabaco, Philippines.
Julie Panganiban may have come from a poor family in Tabaco, but she doesn’t let poverty get in the way of her dreams.
At the age of 13, Julie is already in her third year of high school. As a child she skipped pre-school and was accelerated to first grade. An all-around whiz kid, she excels both in the arts and sciences, but she is particularly gifted in mathematics. She is proudest of being part of the Mathematics Trainers Guild where selected students across the country undergo advanced math clinics and take qualifying exams for international math competitions. She also represents her school during division science meets and press conferences.
Julie Panganiban may have come from a poor family in Tabaco, but she doesn’t let poverty get in the way of her dreams.
At the age of 13, Julie is already in her third year of high school. As a child she skipped pre-school and was accelerated to first grade. An all-around whiz kid, she excels both in the arts and sciences, but she is particularly gifted in mathematics. She is proudest of being part of the Mathematics Trainers Guild where selected students across the country undergo advanced math clinics and take qualifying exams for international math competitions. She also represents her school during division science meets and press conferences.
But even though she is excelling academically, Julie admits that she is quite shy when it comes to dealing with her peers. “It was difficult for me to adjust especially during my first year in high school. I was really very shy then,” she shares. But through the exposure she gets from Children International’s different activities, she was able to overcome her shyness. “The leadership trainings helped me to become more confident in sharing my ideas with others. Mingling with other sponsored kids in various activities helped me develop my social skills more,” she adds.
But all of that progress almost came to an end when her family suffered a serious financial crisis during her first year of high school. Julie almost had to quit school. But instead of giving in to the problem, she took it as a challenge and even got the highest grades in her class that academic year. According to Julie, “More opportunities are open to those who are educated. That’s why I’m fortunate to have a sponsor who helps me to continue with my studies.”
With the support of her sponsor, this bright young lady is well on her way to breaking through the barriers of poverty.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Bloggers on a Mission: Richard Needs Your Help
Last week we introduced you to Richard, a young man from Tabaco, Philippines (read the original post here).
As you may recall, Richard’s situation is desperate. His family generates only about $30 of income each month, causing them to live under unimaginable circumstances.
Richard still needs a sponsor…and we’re looking for a champion. Will you be the one to help us find him a sponsor?
Let your family…your coworkers…your friends know that the situation is urgent. Tell them how simple and gratifying sponsorship is – and how great a difference it can really make in the life of a poor child and his or her family.
And if you have a Lift One Project, once you find someone to sponsor Richard, drop us a line at blog@children.org. We’ll not only set up the sponsorship personally, but we’ll also make sure Richard’s new sponsor gets credited to your Lift One Project.
We’re standing by to hear from you!
As you may recall, Richard’s situation is desperate. His family generates only about $30 of income each month, causing them to live under unimaginable circumstances.
Richard still needs a sponsor…and we’re looking for a champion. Will you be the one to help us find him a sponsor?
Let your family…your coworkers…your friends know that the situation is urgent. Tell them how simple and gratifying sponsorship is – and how great a difference it can really make in the life of a poor child and his or her family.
And if you have a Lift One Project, once you find someone to sponsor Richard, drop us a line at blog@children.org. We’ll not only set up the sponsorship personally, but we’ll also make sure Richard’s new sponsor gets credited to your Lift One Project.
We’re standing by to hear from you!
Monday, July 7, 2008
Bloggers On A Mission: Meet Richard
Our featured child this week is Richard, from Tabaco, Philippines, who has been waiting for a sponsor for two years. Richard is 11 years old, and lives with his mom, dad and three of his five siblings (the other two are grown) in a single room. His bed is a woven mat on the floor.Richard’s dad works hard as a laborer, and his mom works just as hard doing laundry – but between the two of them they are barely able to bring home about $30 each month. His older brother is sponsored.
You can imagine what an incredible relief it will be for the family when Richard is sponsored and gains the security of reliable medical and dental care, as well as help with his education.
Richard’s favorite pastime is playing basketball. How about we get some teamwork going and try to score a 3-pointer for this young man? You know the drill…print out this story…share it with your coworkers, friends and family…let them know that helping Richard’s future can be as inexpensive as a cheap cup of coffee (less than 75 cents a day!)…and before you know it, he will be connected to a caring sponsor.
If you or someone you know would like to become Richard’s sponsor, just write us at blog@children.org. We’ll handle your request personally.
P.S. Do you know someone who would like to sponsor but can’t quite afford it on their own? Why not suggest they share their sponsorship with a friend or relative?
Monday, June 30, 2008
Bloggers on a mission: Meet Jayson
Jayson lives in Tabaco, Philippines and has been waiting for a sponsor for over three years. At thirteen years of age, life is already tough enough, but Jayson has the odds stacked against him. His father passed away, leaving Jayson, his mother and his siblings to live on just $27 a month. Sponsorship would offer Jayson medical and dental care, educational support, clothing and even nutritional aid if necessary.
As a sponsored teen Jayson would also have the opportunity to join Children International’s Youth Program and meet other youth his age who are striving to make a difference in their communities. The Youth Health Corps could also help him to learn valuable information on personal hygiene, sexual education and general wellness that perhaps life without a father has not been able to offer him.
If you know someone who would be interested in sponsoring Jayson, please have them contact us at blog@children.org. It could be as simple as putting his story and picture up on a bulletin board at work. Thank you so much.
As a sponsored teen Jayson would also have the opportunity to join Children International’s Youth Program and meet other youth his age who are striving to make a difference in their communities. The Youth Health Corps could also help him to learn valuable information on personal hygiene, sexual education and general wellness that perhaps life without a father has not been able to offer him.
If you know someone who would be interested in sponsoring Jayson, please have them contact us at blog@children.org. It could be as simple as putting his story and picture up on a bulletin board at work. Thank you so much.
Monday, April 21, 2008
You asked for it...
Posted on behalf of Sarah Trapp
We love hearing from our sponsors and donors; and when we do, many times they tell us that they wished they could see more pictures from their child’s country. So today we’ve decided to give the people what they want: more photos!
Every month we ask our Communication Coordinators in eleven different countries to send us some of their favorite photos they’ve taken. With so many submissions, it’s impossible for us to use all of these fab photos…but we certainly appreciate their hard work and love to put some of their best efforts in the spotlight.
This time we’ll be sharing some of the latest and greatest from the Philippines. Enjoy!
Yummy! These sponsored boys and girls in Quezon City enjoy their Saturday meal provided by one of Children International’s feeding programs for malnourished children.
(Photo by CJ Tarroja)
King of the...tricycle? One man’s junk makes a perfect playground for these children in Legaspi. (Photo by Anthony Lorcha)
We love hearing from our sponsors and donors; and when we do, many times they tell us that they wished they could see more pictures from their child’s country. So today we’ve decided to give the people what they want: more photos!
Every month we ask our Communication Coordinators in eleven different countries to send us some of their favorite photos they’ve taken. With so many submissions, it’s impossible for us to use all of these fab photos…but we certainly appreciate their hard work and love to put some of their best efforts in the spotlight.
This time we’ll be sharing some of the latest and greatest from the Philippines. Enjoy!
Man, the teacher assigned a lot of homework this time! Heavy backpacks are no match for clever kids in Tabaco. (Photo by Sarah Velasco)
Thirteen year old Raymond helps to support his family by selling bananas and other foods on the street after school. With the help of sponsorship, Raymond is in high school and hopes to one day support his family with a professional career. (Photo by Joel Abelinde)
Yummy! These sponsored boys and girls in Quezon City enjoy their Saturday meal provided by one of Children International’s feeding programs for malnourished children.(Photo by CJ Tarroja)
King of the...tricycle? One man’s junk makes a perfect playground for these children in Legaspi. (Photo by Anthony Lorcha) 
Rochelle stands in front of her home in Manila. (Photo by Joel Abelinde)
Friday, April 4, 2008
Meet Mabel from Tabaco, Philippines
What do you want to be when you grow-up?I want to be a teacher so I can teach children how to read.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Perseverance
The Aycocho family is one of over 8,000 Filipino families with sponsored children who received aid totaling $4.1 million after Typhoon Durian destroyed communities in Legazpi and Tabaco late last year.
Watch as the Aycochos rebuild their home and their lives.
Watch as the Aycochos rebuild their home and their lives.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Typhoon Durian Update
I had a chance the other day to chat with Vicki Medrano, our regional director for Asia, regarding our ongoing efforts in the Philippines to help the survivors of Typhoon Durian. As you may recall, this was the natural disaster that brought incredible death and destruction to an area where many of our sponsored children live.
It’s hard to convey with mere words or even photos the suffering that people living in the area around Tabaco and Legazpi, in Albay province, endured as the typhoon raged through the countryside. But the outpouring of support from our sponsors left no doubt about how much you care.
The situation remains grim for many displaced families, thousands of whom remain sheltered in schoolhouses – which they must vacate early each morning so children can attend classes. They wait in the sweltering heat under the meager shelter of thin plastic tents until they can re-occupy the only slightly more comfortable classrooms at the end of the day.
It’s hard to convey with mere words or even photos the suffering that people living in the area around Tabaco and Legazpi, in Albay province, endured as the typhoon raged through the countryside. But the outpouring of support from our sponsors left no doubt about how much you care.
The situation remains grim for many displaced families, thousands of whom remain sheltered in schoolhouses – which they must vacate early each morning so children can attend classes. They wait in the sweltering heat under the meager shelter of thin plastic tents until they can re-occupy the only slightly more comfortable classrooms at the end of the day.
This typhoon survivor was photographed by Anthony Lorcha, a Children International staff member who lost his own home to Typhoon Durian.
Children International is working closely with local government officials and our donors to provide sturdy, typhoon-resistant homes for many of these survivors. Thanks to your contributions and other funds released by the Board of Directors of Children International, much can and will be done to help.
If you’d like to know more about the tragedy in the Philippines and how our sponsors are helping, go to http://www.children.org/ and click on the “Typhoon Durian Relief” button under “Latest News and Features.”
If you’d like to know more about the tragedy in the Philippines and how our sponsors are helping, go to http://www.children.org/ and click on the “Typhoon Durian Relief” button under “Latest News and Features.”
I think you’ll be impressed by what you learn!
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