Embracing the Community: A Year-in-Review of GeneSoc’s Outreach Program

By: Raphael Medrano (Replichore)

PASSION FOR SERVICE | Outreach Committee Head Michelia Malabrigo (Hybrizyme) (3rd from left) poses for a photo together with GeneSoc alumni members (left to right) Renz Roxas (Riboswitch), Merc Emil Matienzo (Riboswitch) and Gabrielle Cortez (Riboswitch) during the Book-Giving Activity at Mo. Barbara Micarelli School, Sto. Tomas, Batangas last December 23. 

LOS BANOS, LAGUNA--For years now, GeneSoc has not only focused on spreading the science of genetics throughout the nation but also on giving back to the people. This year, the Outreach Committee Head, Michelia Merill Linne Malabrigo (Hybrizyme), spearheaded numerous activities that aimed to enrich the people within and beyond the campus. Here’s a list of the outreach activities that were done in this school year.

As the new semester dawned, the activities of the Outreach Committee also started. Last August 2, 2017, the new freshmen students were oriented regarding proper waste disposal. The following week, Adopt-A-Wing Program was conducted. In here, the laboratory rooms of Wing C were checked and the clocks were renewed.

The HOPE Intervention Program: One Gene One Child aimed to nurture the well-being of children with autism. The resident members visited the kids of the HOPE Intervention Center in Calamba, Laguna wherein they, with the kids, participated in story-telling, painting of drawstring bags, and several other activities that lit up the smiles on their faces. Several school materials, books, and toys were also donated to the center.

Just in time for the Christmas season, the GeneSoc members, together with the alumni, practiced the act of giving on Christmas to those who are in need.  A Book and Christmas Gift Giving activity was done on two separate locations, in Paslit Learning House in Los Baños, Laguna, and in Barbara Micarelli School in Sto. Tomas, Batangas.

Upcoming Medical Mission 2018

On April 21, 2018, there will be an upcoming Medical Mission in Gawad Kalinga Village, Brgy. Tuntungin-Putho, Los Baños, Laguna. Dental and General Check-ups, Circumcision Operation, and a seminar regarding the effects of folic acid will be conducted.

For Michelia, every activity is an act of kindness and willingness. The willingness to give, should always have a space in people’s hearts, no matter how small. It is in these activities that we find the unforgettable and priceless fulfillment of helping other people. She hopes that the next outreach committee head, the current and incoming resident members, and all the people will also find the willingness in their hearts to give to other people. That is, without having to expect anything in return—like what she had found.