Written by Kyth Allan Manuel
Photos courtesy of John Viloria
Baguio City – CICM Home Sweet Home, November 16, 2024- pre-service teachers from the University of Baguio’s Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED), Bachelor of Physical Education (BPED), and Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) programs actively participated in an outreach project organized by JCI Sunflower and SLU Sunflower. The initiative, held at CICM Home Sweet Home, aimed to bring joy and support to children through a variety of engaging activities.
This one-stop outreach program featured interactive sessions, including drawing, coloring, face painting, snack distribution, and the provision of essential learning materials. The event brought smiles not only to the children and their parents but, most especially, to the volunteers.
One of the volunteers, Ms. Ilyn Alingbas, shared her experience: “Actually, first time ko na mag-volunteer. Ang saya pala talaga! Definitely, uulitin ko ‘to,” she said with a wide grin.
The pre-service teachers, although some were first-time volunteers, showed enthusiasm and responsibility throughout the event.
The outreach activities provided not only entertainment but also fostered creativity and a sense of belonging among the children. These efforts aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being. The initiative demonstrated how students from the University embrace social responsibility while recognizing the importance of being a supportive mentor, kuya, or ate to the younger generation.
By participating in this initiative, pre-service teachers demonstrated their commitment to inclusive and equitable education while gaining valuable hands-on experience in community service. The event heightened the importance of extending educational opportunities beyond the classroom and highlighted the role of future educators in shaping a more compassionate and supportive society.
Through their efforts, the volunteers not only imparted knowledge but also inspired hope, reinforcing the transformative power of education and community engagement, values that are strongly emphasized at the University of Baguio.
