As the Philippines marks its Independence Day, the nation celebrates freedom and the resilience of its people. For Kaye, a beneficiary of the Virlanie Foundation, this year’s celebration holds a special, personal significance. On June 10, Kaye is celebrating her journey to full independence with the Virlanie Foundation, which has been her home and support system for almost two decades.
Her story with Virlanie began at a young age, when she sought a family, stability, and a brighter future. Through the foundation’s programs and shared services, she discovered a passion for learning and gained the confidence to pursue her dreams – to be a chef. “Maraming binuksang oportunidad si Virlanie Foundation na hindi ko ineexpect na puwedeng mangyari, naging daan ito para mangarap ako at tuparin ito”, (Virlanie Foundation opened doors for me that I never knew existed, it gave me the tools to dream and the confidence to pursue those dreams) Kaye reflects.
Now 25, Kaye embraces her new chapter with a mix of fear, excitement, and determination. Inspired by her experiences, she plans to work on a cruise ship as a chef and wants to give back to the foundation by sponsoring a child. Her journey, coinciding with the nation’s celebration of freedom, underscores the power of resilience and support. “Lubos at forever po akong magpapasalamant sa Virlanie” (I am forever thankful to the Virlanie Foundation), she says. “Binigyan nila ako ng pangalawang pagkakataon sa buhay at tinulungan akong maging kung ano ako ngayon.” (They gave me a second chance at life and helped me become the person I am today.) Kaye’s story stands as a symbol of personal triumph, mirroring the nation’s spirit of overcoming adversity and striving for a better future.
Aside from Kaye, Virlanie’s Independent Living Services also celebrated their 13th year since the inception of the program on June 11, 2011. The Independent Living Services is one of Virlanie’s shared services that aims to empower and support young adults to become self-sustaining and independent individuals. Moreover, the celebration highlights the transition of Danchelle and Paul to Supervised Independent Living. This means that both of them will no longer reside at the Virlanie Foundation, but support will still be provided in preparation for their full independence.
Virlanie Foundation is a private, non-profit, and non-sectarian organization dedicated to empowering disadvantaged children to reach their full potential and their families to prevent the cycle of intergenerational poverty in the Philippines. It operates various programs and shared services, such as residential, community, and street programs, health, education, family reunification, and independent living services.
