christmas party project update

read about children in conflict with the law

the arrangements for the planned christmas party with some 140 children in conflict with the law (CICL) is moving at a very good pace. so far, the virtual/online communications with people back home in the philippines has proved to be surprisingly effective. sponsors like nestle chuckie and coke have already committed their participation. i just need to formalize it by writing them a letter. also, am in the middle of talking to unilever and kfc for their possible participation. also, ciudad, a band made up of classmates of mine from high school, is also almost a 100% sure of providing some music for the party. further, friends have already expressed their enthusiasm to help out and join in the party.

most importantly, im learning more and more about the situation of the children/minors. for example, i learn that at present, there are only four youth homes throughout the philippines. molave youth house, the party venue, one of them. the objective of these youth homes is to provide a respectable and homey atmosphere for the CICL. the reality however is far from the objective. a homelike atmosphere is far from what's happening. grills surround the windows. an isolation room (bartolina) in one of the youth houses. cramped spaces. meals eaten on the floor, with no utensils allowed. no beds to sleep on. not enough hygienic basics. and the list goes on.

i cant wait to party with those kids. to share the physical/material necessities of home (and also whatever goodie bags). but more importantly, to share the joy, warmth and care that makes a home a home in the first place anyway.

for those who are interested in paticipating in whatever capacity in the dec 19th party (date not set in stone yet), shoot me an email (nyu_jason@yahoo.com). for those who are interested in learning more about CILC, here's a great article.

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CRAP! here i am all excited/almost set about a project that's a month plus from now and yet still trying to figure out what exactly im going to do for a presentation to high school juniors in 36 hours. big idea hit me now. lest i do something so-so which i wouldnt forgive myself for.