By Sandra Dickison | In-the-field Representative
The following is an e-postcard from Sandra Dickison, a GlobalGiving Representative in the Philippines.
On Friday, June 28th Ana and I had the pleasure to join the Center for Art, New Ventures, and Sustainable Development (CANVAS) to deliver books to the San Miguel Elementary School which is about 3 hours north of Manila. CANVAS is one of those organizations which exemplify the idea that a small group of people, following their passions, can make a big impact.
CANVAS is run by a group of artists, writers, and general supporters of the arts. Their mission is simple: deliver books to Filipino school children. But how they go about creating and publishing the books is pretty inspiring. An established artist creates an image and Filipino writers use the image for inspiration to write a children's book. Through a competition, CANVAS selects the winning story and the artist completes the illustrations for the book. The books are then given away, free of charge, to children throughout the Philippines. The first page of the each book reads: "this book belongs to...," inviting children to claim ownership of the book and write their name in it.
Ana and I joined CANVAS volunteers, project leaders, and their families, as well as two artists who support CANVAS, Elmer Borlongan and Plet Bolipata, to distribute the books. Elmer actually illustrated one of the first CANVAS books. After lunch at Elmer and Pilat’s amazing home, we went to San Miguel Elementary School where we were met by excited children, patiently waiting for us. Ana and I jumped into the thick of things and started handing out books, written in both English and Tagalog, which tell a story that promotes peace. The principal of the school surprised us by presenting GlobalGiving with certificates of appreciation. It was a really amazing day.
The CANVAS team found a way to combine their passion for art with their desire to promote reading and education of Filipino youth. With 16 books published CANVAS showcases works from some of the best young Filipino artist, as well as teaches children the value of environmental protection, peace, and Filipino culture.
By Gigo Alampay | Executive Director, CANVAS
By Gigo Alampay | Executive Director, CANVAS
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