Care sustains when funding ends

[Rituu B. Nanda]

Caring presence that motivates expanding change Glocon->Tondo, Manila, Philippines, 3-7 September 2012

 

 “I felt that the next generation may do more than we can do”--Fely

In 2005, a 14-year HIV program ended, but the motivation of the group continued. A small team in Tondo gained confidence to engage in counseling about HIV. From 1991 they were supported by facilitation team visits. Frequent visits helped skills develop rapidly, which motivated team members to keep going when the money ran out in 2005. The transfer maps show how caring presence with neigbours continues to stir desire and action for change. This spirit of caring has transferred to some in the next generation—youth meet each Saturday morning to go to ‘Smoky Mountain’, which is a community location in a large rubbish dump. They help interact with children—games, teaching maths and reading, bathing and stories. Now, every Saturday a group of young people walk to Smoky Mountain to spend time tutoring and playing with the children there. They have organized this entirely themselves. We see a 21 year old small sustained community movement that is worth more than money.

 

[GLoCon—Lessons learned The Global and Local Community Conversation took place in 19 countries and 36 local communities during 2012. There were remarkable stories from communities that have found greater resilience as teams came alongside. Here is a story from Philippines. Thanks to Ian Campbell, Alison Campbell and Robin Rader for sharing.]

[Rituu B. Nanda]

Joy Ferriols-Pavico I agree with the sentiment expressed in the blog. This is exactly how things are moving in the Philippines - when the funding ends, the implementors are motivated by their care and presence - still finding ways to make a difference.