Empowering Changemakers
Dela Vega City, Spanish Town
Back in 2015, Jalawelo made its debut in Dela Vega City (DVC). What drew us to DVC? It was the dedicated leadership, determined to tackle the community's challenges head-on. DVC checked all the boxes for what we call a "faithful community" – leaders who are passionate and committed, working tirelessly despite limited resources. One shining example was DVC's fantastic afterschool homework program, showcasing not just excellence but genuine care for the students' well-being.
We didn't just swoop in and do our thing. No, we prioritized building real relationships with DVC's leaders and residents. And you know what? They were just as eager to collaborate with us. We brought in tech training to amp up communication and teamwork, diving deep into Google Workspace tools like Docs and Sheets. We even helped one of the leaders snag a project management certificate!
Our journey began with small gestures that spoke volumes about our commitment to DVC. We lent a helping hand with projects related to the homework center, like funding an unforgettable beach trip for students who had never experienced such a getaway.
Despite the hurdles of violence and a less-than-stellar reputation, DVC stayed strong, and our warm welcome into their family opened doors for us to understand their world better. This collaborative vibe paved the way for us to sync our efforts with DVC's dreams, from backing sports programs and annual events to launching initiatives like the Young Adult Circle (YAC) program, which empowers vulnerable youth with IT skills and mentorship.
Together, we tackled challenges head-on, from offering trauma counseling and COVID-19 relief to upgrading crucial infrastructure like replacing termite-ravaged doors with sturdy metal ones. And hey, we even chipped in with the electricity bill during the tough times of COVID!
Our bond with DVC has blossomed into a lasting partnership, going beyond individual projects. We're in it for the long haul, dreaming of a future where we launch social enterprises to create jobs for the community.
The story of Jalawelo and Dela Vega City is proof of how sustainable partnerships, community involvement, and holistic support can spark positive change and resilience. By aligning our goals, working hand in hand, and facing challenges together, we're making a real difference in DVC's growth and empowerment.