What started as a single volunteer’s dream has now rippled into something bigger—a wave of change that touched lives, inspired hearts, and sparked hope for the future.
In a powerful show of unity and purpose, two passionate nonprofit groups—I am MAD (Making A Difference) Volunteers Inc. and Alon and Araw Club—came together in Cabangan, Zambales for the 102nd MAD Camp. The camp brought 27 committed volunteers and 50 bright-eyed children together for a weekend of values formation, environmental education, and personal transformation.
A camp like no other
This wasn’t just another outreach—it was a milestone.
“This camp was different. It was the first time we fully co-created the experience with another organization,” shared Maco Ravanzo, co-founder of I am MAD. “We weren’t just partners on paper—we designed the entire journey together.”
The camp was led by Teacher Lourie Garcia, project manager at Alon and Araw Club and a proud graduate of I am MAD’s Builders Training Program. Having grown up in Cabangan, Garcia knew the community deeply and poured her heart into planning and executing the camp—with the help of seasoned MAD volunteers, local partners, and generous sponsors.
“It was hard work, but every tired muscle and late night was worth it,” Garcia said. “Seeing the children smile, seeing them believe in their dreams again—that made everything worth it. I’ll always keep going for them.”
One purpose, two missions
Alon and Araw Club is rooted in the coastlines of Zambales, working to protect the ocean while uplifting the lives of underprivileged coastal children. For the camp, AAC brought in youth from their adopted fishing village in San Isidro and students from Sapangbato Elementary School. The goal: to create a weekend filled with inspiration, connection, and meaningful impact.
I am MAD facilitated sessions that encouraged reflection, storytelling, and teamwork—reminding children of their inner strength and values. Meanwhile, AAC anchored the experience with an environmental lens. Through an eco-village tour and beach cleanup, children and volunteers learned firsthand how waste could be transformed into something useful. AAC’s plastic upcycling program has already kept over 25,000 kilograms of plastic out of the ocean by rewarding families for segregated waste—turning trash into opportunity.
“Environmental awareness often takes a back seat when survival is the focus,” said Gabi del Rosario, AAC co-founder. “But when you blend it with values, sports, and storytelling—like we did with I am MAD—you make it relatable and real for the youth.”
Moments that moved hearts
One of the most emotional highlights was the MAD Circle, where children shared heartfelt letters to their parents following sessions on love, forgiveness, and self-worth.
“That moment—that was the reason I wanted to build this camp,” Garcia said. “Healing starts with the family. That’s where real change begins.”
Volunteers, too, were moved. Many left with a deeper understanding of the struggles coastal communities face and a renewed drive to protect the environment and nurture young minds.
Beyond the campfire: A lasting impact
Thanks to Garcia’s leadership, training from the Builders Program, and unwavering community support, the camp had everything it needed—meals, transport, school kits, and so much more. It was a full-circle moment for someone who once dreamed of giving back—and then did.
“This experience reminded me that if you truly believe in something and take action, everything else follows—the people, the support, the momentum,” Garcia reflected.
The 102nd MAD Camp is more than a number—it’s a testament to what’s possible when passion meets purpose. When youth advocacy joins forces with environmental action. When strangers become family through shared goals and open hearts.
It all began with one person brave enough to say yes.
Be part of the next wave
Registration is now open for MAD Camps 2025—an immersive outreach program designed to empower children aged 10 to 12 in underserved areas across the country. To join or support, visit bit.ly/MADcamp2025reg, donate via bit.ly/bidadonate, follow facebook.com/IamMakingADifference, or email iammadph@gmail.com.
Discover more about Alon and Araw Club at facebook.com/alonandarawclub.