Hey everyone, this is Mon, and here to share another story and experience as a Kythe Volunteer. For now, you can call me Kuya Alfred.
I was an active volunteer at Kythe for almost 3 years, and this is my second time joining their yearly camp with the kids.
We had 3 days to spend together, and on our first day, we went to Sky Ranch and SM Pampanga.
SM Cares and Sky Ranch teamed up and gave kids, including us, free all-ride access.
Credits to Sky Ranch Pampanga and SM Cares FB page for this photo
For our first ride, we tried the train express, and I was with Nimzy and PJ, who are from the PCMC hospital and were assigned to look for these kids. They are so excited and grab my hands just to try this ride.
There are so many rides that the kids tried, including the drop tower, Ferris wheel, and even the extreme ones. I was surprised by their bravery in trying everything, although some of the rides made them cry, especially the Vikings ride!
The kids were so carried away since they spent most of their time at their houses and hospitals, that's why I advised them to enjoy and experience all as long as they can, and I will always be beside them watching.
Their laughter and screams filled the air, creating a joyful atmosphere that was contagious. It was heartwarming to see them embrace the thrill, knowing that these moments would be cherished memories for years to come.
After enjoying ourselves at Sky Ranch and SM, we spent the last few days of this summer camp at Clearwater Resort in Pampanga.
It was a vast, quiet, and exclusive retreat. The tranquility of the atmosphere is extremely healing, perfect for this kind of event.
Trees and greens are everywhere!
They gave us the key and room assignment, and then we put our belongings and rested. The rooms are very spacious and clean, and the kids loved it!
We had a lot of activities connected to the theme "Pinoy ako, Pinoy Tayo," and for Day 2, the campers and volunteers teamed up to play traditional Filipino games.
We played Tumbang Preso, Maria Goes to Market, Golen (marbles), and Tirador, or Sling Shot.
Each team needs to finish the game within the given time limit. Anyway, we're the yellow team or Team Sunshine. I love how competitive they are, despite their conditions. I let them play as a team and cheer them on.
In the evening, we will make our mailbox, and we will collect it before the summer camp ends. Each of us will receive a random letter, it's either from kids, volunteers, or staff.
The most awaited time of the campers is the last day, because they are free to enjoy and do what they love.
Some of them played beach volleyball, and I even joined the party while most of the kids stayed and enjoyed the moment in the swimming pool.
Their smiles are genuine; you can tell how happy they are.
A video presentation was always shown to us before this summer camp finished, and it always made us cry, especially when the children shared a message.
We took some pictures before we parted ways. These kids are from the PCMC hospital, and I'm so blessed to be their Kuya for the whole camp.
Unwell children are hidden behind their smiles. That camp fills us with love, joy, and happiness. Salute to these warriors! 💪
So that's it for ...
Oh, remember the mailbox? I read it when I reached home, and just like before, it's soul-touching. Hmm, will share some of it with you guys.
I'm moved! 🥺 I'm so grateful to be part of this Kythe Summer camp :)
Thank you, everyone, for reading.
Keep safe, y'all!
PS. All photos are owned by me @mooontivated, otherwise credited.