I’ve always wanted to make a difference: volunteer for an organization like Make-A-Wish or Kythe, or be part of a reading program for less fortunate kids. I never got around to doing so when I was in school (save for our CWTS practicum); I would always find an excuse to put it off. I’ve also always wanted to sponsor a child through World Vision, as I believe in the organization’s mission-vision. And when 2011 kicked in, I had a strong urge to just do it.

I went to the World Vision booth at SM North Edsa Annex on the second of January, where the very helpful and friendly staff walked me through the whole sponsorship process. My sponsored child’s name is Abegail (she turned six last May 20!), and she’s from Leyte. Honestly, I really had a hard time choosing from the list of children, so I just let God guide me. :)

A couple of weeks ago, I received a letter in the mail (yay for snail mail!) from Abegail’s mom. I was really touched because the whole thing became more real. More than giving monthly dues, the whole point of sponsoring a child is correspondence. World Vision encourages sponsors to write letters to their sponsored children, to inspire them to dream, work hard, and keep the faith.

I also got these from World Vision: a statement pin and a baller band that says “Make Poverty History.”

I took a leave from work today to attend to some personal matters, and I thought of passing by the bookstore to get something for Abegail. I super love bookstores!!! :) Back-to-school shopping is one of my favorite things to do because I love fresh notebooks, cute ballpens, and all the neat things you can find in bookstores.

Here are the things I’m sending Abegail. I hope she likes them! :)

I intend to help Abegail and her community out as long as they need me. I hope to also send more kids to school and to be involved in other organizations by sharing not just material things, but also my time and skills. With God’s grace, I believe I will be able to keep it up.

The happiness you get from sharing your blessings is one of the best feelings in the world. And you know what else? There’s no better time to make a difference than now. We can all make this world a better place, by changing “not the world exactly, just the bit around you.” (Emma, One Day)

World Vision is just one of the many organizations you can support. I’m sure you’ll find one that fits your lifestyle and vision. If you also want to sponsor a child, check out the World Vision website or call (02) 3747618 to 28 for inquiries.