UnionBank Volunteers Spend a Meaningful Christmas at Laura Vicuna Foundation
By: Martina Lucero
Last December 2, 2023, volunteer employees from UnionBank’s Unsecured Collections organized a GoBeyond Communities initiative titled “MeaningfUl Christmas.” This outreach aimed to infuse the spirit of charity into the holiday season, fostering a deeper sense of purpose and warmth for both the volunteers and the beneficiaries involved.
The beneficiaries of this initiative were the girls from Laura Vicuna, a foundation that the team has supported since before the pandemic, particularly during International Women’s Month. Laura Vicuna primarily helps girls who have endured abuse and exploitation, striving to empower them and provide equal opportunities despite their challenging circumstances.
The initiative aimed to bring joy and hope to the girls at Laura Vicuna through various activities and donations. Among the donated items were groceries, bed linens, pillows, towels, collared shirts, and journals, intended to encourage the girls to embrace self-reflection as they set goals for the upcoming year. Journaling also serves as an effective tool for healing, providing the girls with a means of navigating their journey towards recovery.
The day started with fun games, followed by a shared lunch between volunteers and beneficiaries, providing a chance for personal conversations and deeper connections to develop.
During the gift presentation, each girl received a personal journal, where they were asked to reflect on their favorite memories from 2023 and share their aspirations for 2024. Some shared their thoughts, and even got emotional while doing so. The event ended with a heartfelt song and dance performance by the girls which showcased their gratitude and joy.
The impact of the initiative was clearly seen in the happiness radiating from them. One beneficiary expressed, “Ang dami pong pumupunta dito, pero sa inyo lang po talaga kami nakaka–connect”.
The organizers consider the outreach a resounding success, not only for the donations provided, but for the emotional connections built between the volunteers and the girls.
UnionBankers not only brightened their holiday season, but also touched their lives and reminded them that they are valued and supported.
By making another underserved community feel seen and supported, this initiative by UnionBankers once again exemplifies the essence of GoBeyond Communities.
