The College of Management students from UPV celebrated the holiday season by organizing an outreach with the theme "Empowering Young Hearts: A Day of Healing, Learning, and Joy." The initiative started by showcasing a different path other than the usual corporate work management students are used to, which include government work and volunteerism.
The event, held on December 7, 2024, at the Home for Girls in Cabatuan, Iloilo, exemplified the spirit of the holiday season by extending kindness, joy, and encouragement to those who need it most. It was an opportunity for the students to give back to the community and share the message of empowerment, hope, and love during that special time of the year.
Established in the year 2000 by the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office VI, the home serves as a sanctuary for young girls below the age of 18 who have been victims of abuse. The girls often face immense challenges and hardships, and the Home for Girls provides them with a safe space where they can heal and grow.
The class of Human Resource Management (Mgt 121) - Section 2, spearheaded by its faculty-in-charge, Mrs. Elllaine Rae Dela Cruz, organized the event. The class worked diligently to prepare the event, ensuring that the girls would have a memorable and enjoyable experience. The outreach was not only a chance for the students to engage in a meaningful community service project; it also allowed them to develop important skills such as leadership, teamwork, and empathy.
Through art, Ms. Christina Octoso, the guest speaker of the event, conducted an art workshop for the girls. It aimed to provide the girls with an outlet for self-expression, allowing them to channel their emotions and experiences into creativity. The girls were able to express themselves through art, showcasing their talents and bright, hopeful dreams in each line, color, shadow, symbol, and perspective. The activity encouraged the girls to explore their inner thoughts and aspirations, offering them a sense of empowerment and confidence. Ms. Octoso emphasized the power of art as a tool for healing and self-discovery, and the girls responded with enthusiasm, producing beautiful works that reflected their resilience and dreams for the future.
"Diin mo gusto maglagaw?" ("Where do you want to go?") was the first question the girls answered through chalk art in the workshop. This question sparked their imagination and invited them to think about their aspirations, hopes, and desires for a brighter future. The artwork served as a visual representation of the girls' hopes, allowing them to feel heard and understood. It was a powerful moment of connection, where the girls were encouraged to dream big and envision a life full of possibilities.
To add more fun, games were organized that brought laughter and joy to everyone. The game Trip to Jerusalem showcased the incredible dance moves of the girls. The lively atmosphere was filled with giggles, cheers, and excitement as the girls showcased their energy and enthusiasm. It was a chance for everyone to come together, share moments of joy, and create lasting memories.
With the help of sponsors and partners, such as UP Visayas Ugnayan ng Pahinungod Oblation Corps, Junior People Management Association of the Philippines - UPV Chapter, Dunkin’ Donuts, Meraki Studios, Elize Clothing Shop, Asst. Prof. John Lorenz Belanio, and Ms. Jenny J. Pelasol, the event was made possible. The sponsors and partners played a crucial role in ensuring that the event was a success, providing the necessary resources, materials, and support. Their contributions made it possible to create a positive and enriching experience for the girls, and their involvement demonstrated the power of collaboration and community spirit.
The was a reminder that every young heart deserves the opportunity to heal, learn, and experience joy, no matter the circumstances.
