GIVE Ifugao..

My story of the kids in Ifugao may be my first hands-on volunteering effort. I have done the giving to certain group only at some point of calamity by sending used clothing, canned goods and noodles.

I thought of proposing a small time outreaches to help the children who walk hours and cross rivers and hike mountains just to get to school and yet eager to learn. An acquaintance, a fellow traveler told me to observe one. She's been doing this for years; limited and silently.

We at first thought of the island that is part the Babuyan Archipelago, but we can't go on on a stormy season in the country. It was good fortune that brought us to Ifugao. Chance that must be brought to reality.

I have observed their set, they were given with such a very appealing surroundings. They got marvelous mountains, streams and  a good chilly weather. Ifugao is such an imperial place.

Because of its landscape and the altitude, it was very heart warming to witness eager little learners go to school, even with a worn out slipper, without rain covers on a cold, rainy season, some without bags and protecting their things in a plastic bag. They must be rewarded for their urge to learn.

The enthusiasm for this call is our determination to help even in our small way.

The children of the hills needed encouragement as they come to school. Gaming consoles are unknown to those kids. If you asked them what they need, they will answer "slippers", "bag", "notebooks", "pencils", "crayons" - small things that we just taken for granted at times just because we have them whenever we need.

If you happen to talk or play with those children, their smiles and laughter will enveloped you with gladness. I felt that. Sincere happiness.

And you being with them, talk and laugh, is like an actual way of saying "you are in our dreams and we love you", I hope those kids get the message, and we all wish that they pursue their education where they can't go wrong. I hope. I wish. For they are the ones who will inherit Ifugao soon, to be taken cared of.

The motivation for this writing is my determination to carry on the proposal, the Give Intensely, Victoriously, Enthusiastically or GIVE Ifugao; set to happen on November  this year, a three day outreach program for more or less 500 beneficiaries of different villages.

I also encourage you dear readers to please sponsor a preschooler / gradeschooler. Monetary donations will be used to purchase school bags, notebooks, pencils, raincoats and slippers or boots to at least 500 beneficiaries in various communities.

If you're interested in helping, please help us help.

You may also refer to Heiz of  JourneyingPinay for other details.