Sibuyan Island, Romblon—Driven by their passion and desire to make their time worthwhile this summer, 20 volunteers from across the country, mostly millennials recently gathered for a three-day outreach program called “I am M.A.D” (Making A Difference) Camp in this resort-like municipality.
The millennial volunteers consist of old and new ones converged here to help 50 students of Tomas and Maria Maglaya Memorial School in Magdiwang to develop their innermost potentials and to make a difference in many simple ways starting from themselves to their families, schoolmates, and their community.
Mark Conrad ‘Maco’ Ravanzo, co-founder and CEO of I am Making A Difference Inc., said, having a purpose is “empowering.”
“Just as we millennials are seeking to find purpose in our career, we also seek purpose in almost everything we do which includes traveling.
“And this is what I am MAD Inc. is doing. Making meaningful difference not only to our beneficiaries but also to our co-volunteers who are committed to discover and share their passions through volunteerism,” Ravanzo explained.
The camping activities concluded with an encounter with the parents of the beneficiaries, introducing the group’s mission and encouraged them to support their children in reaching their dreams and be more proactive in their own community.
Afterwards, the families met in a mini-retreat session before handling I am MAD’s “Bags of Dreams” school supply gifts to the students.
“‹”‹Magdiwang Mayor Denisa Repizo was present during the closing ceremonies where volunteers and beneficiaries alike had the chance to show their appreciation for the support given by the community and local government in making the I am MAD Camp possible.
A youth forum called MAD Talks was also held during the event.
To complete the volunteering and #TravelWithAPurpose experience, volunteers of I am MAD had the chance to explore the raw beauty of Romblon by visiting some of its natural attractions such as Lambingan Falls, Sanctuary Garden, Dalipi River, Magdiwang Beach and the scenic view of the famous Mt. Guiting-Guiting in Sibuyan Island.
The local tour called “MADventure” ended in the capital town of Romblon where volunteers enjoyed the white sand beaches of Tiamban and Bonbon with a sandbar.
A 2016 TAYO Awards (Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations)awardee for Culture and the Arts, Peace, and Human Development, I am Making A Difference (I am M.A.D.) is millennial-driven, non-profit volunteer organization.
I am MAD is set to visit and do more camps in Zamboanga, Guimaras, Cavite, Oriental Mindoro, and Ilocos Norte.
For local community partnerships, interested volunteers and sponsors, email I am MAD at iammadph@gmail.com