Written by: Ate Michelle, U! Happy Core Member
Volunteerism definitely knows no boundaries.
Jessica, an Indian citizen, and also a very hands-on mom of 2, chose to spend her birthday with the kids
of GK Laura. Having a language barrier doesn’t hinder her and her family to reach out and play with the
energetic kids of GK.
As Jessica’s family arrived at the venue, they were introduced by Ate Beth and grouped them with the
kids. As they gathered with the kids, the most challenging part has started, the getting-to-know stage.
Since they only knew few Tagalog words, they had a hard time communicating with the kids. The funny
thing is, the kids are very eager to speak with Jessica and the kids as well. Her helper is of good support
as well for being with her all throughout the event as her “walking dictionary”.
After the introduction, Ate Beth highlighted the team’s names and the game has eventually begun. It
started with Stock Me up wherein Team Star Wars bagged the top spot. You can see how determined
the kids were as they pile up the cups. Blocking the way so their cups won’t get crushed by wind.
Following the game, one of the highlights of the event was set up, Balloon Twisting. During the
performance, you’ll see how focus the kids were. The kids were pumped up when Ate started to give the
shaped balloons to those who could guess the figure she’s making out of it. She’s somehow popular
with the kids since they even jump up high to reach for the balloons she creates. Even the “not-so-kids”
were able to enjoy the balloon tricks.
After the show, another game was done, the “Snow Ball”. The kids were actually torn whether they
would jive to the music or they’ll pass the ball to win the game. As the conclusion emerged, Team
Rayah got the crown. A very small group, literally, since they consist of so cute and tiny kids!
At the end of the program, the kids greeted Ate Jessica by singing the happy birthday song while circling
around the cake. After she blew the candle, instead of receiving gifts, she gave something to the kids,
loot bags with hanky, pen, purse and toy inside! Next in line are the foods and of course, the prizes for
the winners which leads to unstoppable smile on the kids’ faces.
This day has absolutely a lot of memories on it. And this event proves, that smile knows no boundaries,
a very powerful tool and is definitely the universal language.
