Lasallians make ripples of change in Lian, Batangas through EHEMPLO 2024

Volunteers from De La Salle University (DLSU) recently made a significant impact in the community of Lian, Batangas, through their participation in EHEMPLO 2024, an annual immersion and volunteering program organized by the DLSU-Center for Social Concern and Action.

The week-long initiative, which took place from April 22 to 29, 2024, saw 25 enthusiastic volunteers engaging in various activities aimed at uplifting the lives of the locals and fostering community integration.

One of the key highlights of the program was the mangrove planting activity held in Sitio Sulok of Barangay Lumaniag. This endeavor contributed to environmental conservation efforts and provided volunteers with an opportunity to connect with nature and understand the importance of preserving coastal ecosystems.

In addition to environmental activities, the volunteers also dedicated their time to educational initiatives, including tutorial sessions with Grade School students of Lumaniag Elementary School. These sessions not only helped enhance the academic skills of the students but also fostered meaningful connections between the volunteers and the younger generation.

Furthermore, the volunteers conducted Women Empowerment and Mental Health sessions with members of partner organizations, demonstrating their commitment to addressing pressing social issues and promoting holistic well-being within the community.

The success of EHEMPLO 2024 in Lian, Batangas, was made possible through close coordination with partner local government units from the Municipality of Lian and Barangay Lumaniag. Additionally, collaborative efforts with partner People’s Organizations, namely Lian Fisherfolks Association (LFA), Women’s Love (WL), and Samahan ng Maliliit na Mangingisda sa Sulok (SAMLOK), played a crucial role in ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of the program.

EHEMPLO, as an immersion program, aims not only to facilitate but also to animate the process of social consciousness and engagement among volunteer participants. Through initiatives like EHEMPLO 2024, DLSU continues to empower its students and personnel to create positive change and forge meaningful connections with communities in need.