Taking more responsibility isn't my thing as much as possible since I'm a free bird and I don't want to be tied up to anything. However, this one particular organization at school made me rethink that thought for many times as I could remember. Somehow, my passion for public service won me over at the same time. When the said organization announced that they were looking for students who love to serve, at the time, I wasn't informed of the application but seeing their goods deeds from every school activities prompted me to inquire.
I reached out to the President if I could still possibly have a chance to join even if the online application have closed and the forms have expired. Gladly, she gave me a chance and let me take the online interview with the Board Members and the Organization Adviser. That at least 5 minutes discussion with them, it made me felt like having a job interview where I was applying to my dream job. With my hoarse morning voice, tensed and nervous at the same, but I was determined, I managed to answer their questions briefly and concise. After days of deliberations from the Board Members, I was one of the successful applicants to finally join the organization.
This organization is the Circle K International.
Circle K International (CKI) is one of the world’s largest student-led collegiate service organizations, with thousands of members on hundreds of campuses across the globe. The collegiate branch of the Kiwanis International family, CKI is committed to developing leaders by offering unique service, leadership and fellowship opportunities that change the world and the lives of our members. CKI members leave college with real-life skills in networking, advocating and service leadership. CKI members are dedicated to childhood development, environmental justice, mental health and serving those who are food insecure or lack housing. We also partner with several international organizations that share our values, such as UNICEF USA and Active Minds.
"Live to Serve, Love to Serve."
Source: Circle K International
After being accepted, I was recommended as a member to their Social Committee. For this upcoming semester and new school year, our first activity for social work was to collaborate at Elementary Schools for their Brigada Eskwela which aims to have cleaner and safer environment for children before the classes formally open. Their goal was to finish all the cleaning and repair works for the school, so that the children and teachers could focus on learning and teaching as the new school year officially starts.
Patricia Homes Elementary School situated at the borders of Barangay Estefania and Barangay Granada of Bacolod City was the first school we've augmented with. Together with our Board Members, Adviser, President and other members, we were not discouraged by the rainy season from lending a helping hand to the said school. Around 8:00 am, we have gathered at the school's covered court to join the other stakeholders, parents, teachers, students, and Barangay Officials. They have received buckets of paint from our organization and we were also thankful for their recognition of our efforts.
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When the Principal formally signaled the start of the Brigada, the parents and teachers were helping hand in hand on cleaning the classrooms and the school surroundings. While on the other side, we have helped in distributing snacks to anyone it could accommodate at that moment which was also a donation from our organization. Those were just small gestures from us if I would think about it, however, it left a great impact to the entire school; inspirits volunteerism, inspiring the youth, and instilling hope for everyone.
My first activity here was truly moving. As I get to learn the uplifting advocacies of my seniors during the program, I was more sure of the decisions I've made for joining this type of organization. I'm living the life where my purpose is served and fulfilling the passion where I'm called to deliver. That said, I'm looking forward for another outreach program and social welfare volunteer works that this organization will lead me to.
Cheers.
This is the end of my blog. Thanks for reading!