UnionBank and AHA Learning Center Support Filipino Youth in “Own Your Future Year 2” Program
By: Martina Lucero
Last September 30, 2023, UnionBank volunteers came together to provide much-needed support to 30 Grade 4-5 students of Pinagbuhatan Elementary School as they embarked on their journey back to face-to-face classes. These students had spent years in online learning due to the pandemic and needed assistance in rebuilding their socio-emotional strength. The program, titled “Own Your Future Year 2,” was done under UnionBank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiative, “GoBeyond Communities,” and in partnership with the AHA Learning Center.
The AHA Learning Center, a Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-registered nonprofit organization, is internationally recognized and has received numerous awards for its dedication to providing quality education support to Filipino youth, particularly those who face significant challenges in life.
The “Own Your Future Year 2” program not only aided students but also empowered their parents in understanding how to support their children in pursuing their dreams and shaping their future. As early adolescence is a pivotal stage of development, marked by emotional and social changes, the program aimed to provide comprehensive guidance and support.
One of the activities done during the program was the Young Achievers Club (YAC) for Grade 4-5 students, focusing on “Ang Pangarap Ko ay Kayang Paghandaan at Pagsikapan” – a Social Emotional Learning Session. For parents, the Suporta Eskwela Club (SEC) focused on “Ako ay Handa at Nagsusumikap” – a Saving and Wise Spending Learning Session.
UnionBank volunteers interacted with the students and parents, creating an environment of understanding, empathy, and motivation. The program reinforced the idea that it “takes a village to teach a child,” as expressed by School Principal Josephine Macawile during the event. She emphasized that a child’s education cannot be the sole responsibility of the school and that it requires collective effort from the community.
UnionBank CSR and Sustainability Manager Japhet Luistro also underscored the importance of Ubuntu, expressing “Sa UnionBank meron kaming core values kagaya ng Ubuntu – ako ay ako dahil sa ating lahat. Nandito na tayo ngayon hindi lang dahil sa ating sarili, kung hindi rin dahil sa mga taong nakapaligid sa atin. Tulong tulong po tayo para makamit ang inyong future.“
The “Own Your Future Year 2” program is the first of a three-part engagement with the community, with two more sessions scheduled for October and November. As the initiative gains momentum, we’ll see more UnionBank volunteers join hands to support and inspire more beneficiaries towards a brighter future.
This initiative is a testament to UnionBank’s commitment to uplifting the Filipino youth, emphasizing the importance of holistic education and community support. Through programs like these, UnionBank makes a significant impact on the lives of young individuals and their families, helping them build a better future and contribute to the nation’s development.