support@rotarycdoeasturban.org
-Rtn. Ann Aquino
In continued support to the Rotary’s goal in strengthening the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro East Urban called for donations of used books last July 1 through August 17, 2017. Collection boxes were placed at different establishments and locations around the city to serve as drop-off and pick-up centers through the duration of the project. This effort gathered about 520 books, collected from Rotarians and non-Rotarian individuals through these centers.
The book drive focused on K-3rd grade level pupils and the books were distributed to selected public schools within Misamis Oriental. The first batch of books and literacy kits were donated to Pamalihi Elementary School, Pagatpat, Cagayan de Oro City last July 7, 2017. The next batch was distributed to Perdro Maligmat Elementary School and Alfredo A. Militante Elementary School last August 18, 2017, in collaboration with PP and Councilor Myrna Motoomull of Gingoog City and her family. The last batch will be donated to a day care center in Villanueva City, Misamis Oriental tentatively by October this year, which will be done in coordination with Rtn. and Mayor Jenny Uy.
As part of the distribution activity, the ladies of the club held a story telling session with the K-level pupils, using books with features and vocabulary of two languages common in our Education System: English and Filipino. The story telling not only showed the children how to use a book but also showed them the significance of their own experience reflected in the story being read. This process of sharing and asking questions encouraged conversations and understanding about how their personal lives could relate to the lessons written in books, even as young as they are.
As reading is one important skill for success, giving books to children will help them practice this skill and eventually develop love for reading. Rotary’s continued mission is “service above self,” and the Club feels this Book Drive initiative is an impactful and positive way to provide these children a meaningful and educational gift. With the leadership of RCCEU Community Service Project Chair, PP Ophelia “Ophie” dela Cerna, along with coordinators Rtn. Ann Aquino, Rtn. Kanna Motoomull-Idulsa, PP Myrna Motoomull, Club Secretary Imee Van Der Born, and the rest of the club officers under President Magdalena Cue, all forms and means of support we received from various individuals, Rotarians and non-Rotarians alike, has been valuable in the success of the project.
