Making A Difference in the Philippines

In the recent M.A.D (Making A Difference) Program, held in Batangas, Philippines, Mark Conrad and Christian Marx (COE Chapter Leaders), invited 40 children, 13 youth Volunteers from different regions and the entire community to participate in the M.A.D activities and help renovate and paint an entire school!

Some of the M.A.D activities included:

• Team Building
•  Promotion of the 10 M.A.D. commitments to Inspire children to  make a difference in their own litlle ways
•  Youth Forum on Leadership, Volunteerism and Community Service
• Distribution of School Supplies
• Candle ligthing rally ( each person lighted up a candle to form the 3 M.A.D letters)
• M.A.D Circle

"Let us be the hope of the children in this new generation. Let's help them reach and make their dreams come into reality. Let's bring back the smiles on their faces and let them feel the very essence of their childhood days. Only loud cries of laughter can be heard as the rain pours and actively shares its blessings among all of us. Blessed, Fulfilled, Inspired, Encouraged and Loved! The M.A.D circle has touched the hearts of many especially the kids and their parents. Kids will be writing to their parents thanking them for the love, care, sacrifices, and all their good deeds. I have read one letter from one of these kids and his letter contains these words: "Inay salamat po sa inyong pag-aalaga at pagsasakripisyo para sa aming lahat. Salamat po dahil pinapaaral nyo ako. Mag-aaral po akong mabuti. Mahal na mahal ko po kayo Inay." While writing, some of the kids are crying. Tears keep falling down their eyes proving their sincerity at a very young age. I couldn't stop my heart from being touched by that wonderful scenario. These kids are lucky to have their parents beside them. A very loud sound of appreciation became a beautiful song in my ears. Everyone cried. Everyone was touched by these cute angels surrounding us. Indeed we made a difference in their lives. This is not goodbye but this will be the start of various acts of kindness that will benefit those who believe and who make a stand to change and make a difference. :) I am MAD. You just need to be proud. Make a stand. Shout it loud. Start it now. I am MAD :)"  Jennelyn Peña (M.A.D. Ambassador of Rizal, COE Philippines Chapter)

For more detailed information on the Inspiring Work that Mark and Christian are doing in the Philippines please go to: http://www.coeworld.org/family/philippines/social-action-report