We were delighted to connect with Regin Manlapaz (RM), who volunteered with Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child for their Day of Giving. As a first-time volunteer, RM found joy in selecting gifts, connecting with other volunteers, and leading a prayer. Inspired by the experience, RM encourages others to embrace the fulfillment of giving back.
AC: What organization or local cause did you volunteer for?
RM: Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child
AC: Was this your first time volunteering for this organization or cause? Please elaborate.
RM: It’s my first time volunteering.
AC: Why did you choose to volunteer here for your Day of Giving?
RM: It is sweet and simple way to put a smile on a child this Christmas.
AC: Can you tell us about your volunteer experience? What did you do? Did your time volunteering meet your expectations?
RM: I was thrilled to put myself in the shoes of the recipient upon buying the goods which makes me so excited. Upon arrival at the drop-off location, I thought it was just a simple drop-off and go but it’s not. I was welcomed by the other volunteers, and it made me feel how important this task was. I was asked to offer a prayer and obediently confirmed. That’s when I feel the true joy of how grateful I am to be able to bless a child this Christmas.
AC: What would you like to share to encourage others to volunteer their time and energy locally?
RM: This may require someone to spend some money but in my personal experience, it is so fulfilling to the point that I would like to do it again if I have a chance next year.
AC: Using complete sentences, tell us about your volunteer experience? What did you do? Did your time volunteering meet your expectations?
RM: I was delighted to put myself in the recipient’s shoes upon buying the goods, which excites me. Upon arrival at the drop-off location, I thought it was just a simple drop-off and go but it’s not. I was welcomed by the other volunteers, and it made me feel how important this task was. I was asked to offer a prayer and obediently confirmed. That’s when I feel the true joy of how grateful I am to be able to bless a child this Christmas.
AC: Using complete sentences, is there anything else that you would like to share about your experience?
RM: It is really a worthy experience, and I will do it again even without Day of Giving from the company.
AC: Using complete sentences, tell us about any requirements for this type of volunteerism.
RM: So, the requirement is to get a box, choose an age bracket and gender of the receiver fill the box with goods like toys and school supplies, pay the shipping fee of $10, and drop the box to the drop-off location.
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