Tsinelas.org - Featured Volunteer

“Am I sure?” This is one of the many questions that entered my mind when I signed up for a charitable organization that aims to help poor children stay in school.

I was blessed to be in a family that can provide for most of my needs and wants. Reaching out to our down-and-out brothers does not suit me. I am not your goodie-good girl. I’m judgmental and often times I look down at people. Mingling with street kids, for me is a no-no. Why would I exert effort if they do not affect me in the first place? So I was truly abashed to find myself signing up for the organization. Admittedly, aside from having free time, I joined because of my friends. But deep within, I don’t really know if I’m up to this kind of commitment. Like I said I am not a people person. I don’t even know what other things this organization do, as what I’ve heard they go on an outreach and help kids. Going back, I asked myself if I’m up to the task at hand.

As a “volunteer,” I felt obliged to join outreach programs. And so, I had my first real outreach activity. Back then, when I was not yet a member of the organization, we were invited to help in one of their activities during Christmas, the Share-A-Hug project. This is to give poor children toys and make them feel they are still loved. With this, I had the chance to experience playing with children, hear their stories, see them perform and most especially see their genuine happiness.

As exhausting as it seemed, the activity turned out to be a life-changing experience for me. I realized I can offer something for others, especially children -- my time and effort. And from that point I can say that the experience shaped me to become sensitive, kind, good-hearted. These are all the things that I was not way back. I’ve been part in helping kids in my own little way for a year now. I may not have done much, but I did what I can for them and do even more.

I didn’t only give but I received too. I didn’t only help the children but they helped me as well. They helped me grow-up.

Lexxa Jane Molijon
UP-Tsinelas