Galing (Great) News

A Message by Jordan Alexander Moratin, 2010 Youth Leader Honoree

2011-12-06T12:33:00.001-08:00

Photo credit: Ann Margaret Moratin
December 2, 2011, Chamblee, GA -

A Message by Jordan Alexander Moratin, 2010 Youth Leader Honoree:

About this time last year, I was presented the Galing Foundation Youth Leadership Award, and now it is time for this same honor to be presented to someone else, so I'd like to take a couple of minutes to express what it is about this award that has meant so much to me.

I am very proud to be part of Galing Foundation because I know that this organization helps many children in the Philippines. I wish could've done more.

Although, I wondered sometimes if there was something special that I was supposed to do to prove myself worthy of such an honor, and it took a little while for me to figure out just what it is that I was supposed to do. But those who voted for me last year wasn't looking for me to perform any miracles, or to meet with Presidents and Dignitaries, they just wanted me to know that they appreciated what I had already done and their expectations of me were only to keep up the good work. And I hope that I have done that.

One thing about it, any time you do something that is recognized by others as something good and worthwhile, that in itself is an award. When we achieve something for ourselves and make room in our lives to help others whenever possible, then, it goes without saying, we are all entitled to an award. It is only through the engagement of cooperation and understanding that we can eliminate dissension and bring about peace and harmony. At this time, I would like to thank those that are involved in Galing Foundation. And on behalf of all the unfortunate children in the Philippines, Thank you for all that you do! Maraming Salamat Po!

About JORDAN

-a student at Bay Creek Middle School 2011-2012
- remains as a straight A student
- Principal's Honor Roll Award for school year 2010-2011
- Certificate of Excellence In Leadership - Student Council President 2010-2011
- Perfect Attendance 2011
- Grayson's Citizenship Award 2010-2011
- Certificate of Participation in Honor's Choir 2010-2011
- Certificate of Participation in RAM Buddy 2010-2011
- Certificate of Participation in GETV 2010-2011
- Still performs in different events like Grayson Days, Atlanta's Dogwood Festival, Snellville Days and Gwinnett Relay for Life
-s very active in playing soccer.

GFI Program Director Ana Blackburn announces results of the 5th Annual Youth Leadership Award

2011-12-01T10:49:00.001-08:00

December 1, 2011 McDonough, GA-

On behalf of Galing Foundation, Inc. Board and the 2011 Youth Leadership Selection Committee with the support of the Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul "Ray" Donato, Program Director Ana Blackburn announces the results of the 5th Annual Youth Leadership Award. "It is a great honor to congratulate all 9 youth members of the Filipino community in Georgia who participated in the 5th Annual YLA Program as well as their respective family and friends who provide enormous support throughout the years. We share with them the joy in their academic and civic achievement. We recognize the tremendous generosity of time, talent and resources which all 9 nominees have genuinely contributed back to the community here and abroad. We at GFI are deeply honored to be a recognizing body of 9 young leaders who are actively and meaningfully engaged."- A. Blackburn

Given by the 3-member Selection Committee composed of Bryan Ramos, Esq., Tricia Sung and Carolina A. Woodley, Ph.D. a total average of 96% (academic, civic, leadership & character), Ms. Kimberly Moriles will be awarded on Friday, December 2 as the 2011 Youth Leader Honoree.

Kimberly Moriles 12th Grade, Dutchtown High School, Hampton, GA

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE: 1.) Elementary: All A’s Honor Roll 1st to 5th Grade Highest GPA, Outstanding Christian Character, Art Award, Duke University TIP Program, Principal’s Award 2005, Principal Award 2006, Spelling Bee 1st Place Winner 2004-2005 2.) Middle School: All A’s Honor Roll & Band 6th to 8th Grade Honor Band, Social Studies Award, Citizenship Award 2007- 2008,Outstanding Student in Music Achievement 2009, Duke University Duke TIP, Outstanding Flute Student in 7th grade, Participated in Science Fairs 2007 (Placed 2nd in County level) and 2008 (3rd Place), Spelling Bees, Got Superior ratings for Music Solo & Ensemble District VI 2006-2007 3.) High School : Current GPA – 97.548 Belongs to the Top 5% of DHS Class 2012 of 309 students Honor Roll 9th,10th,11th Symphonic Band all 4 yrs of high school (Best Section 2011) Best Overall in English (2011) National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, National Beta Club, National Society of High School Scholars, Nominated for 2010-2011 Governor’s Honor’s Program 2011 GA certificate of Merit Clubs: Art’s Club, Spanish Club, HOSA, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Key Club, Beta Club Plays piano & flute (Outstanding Student in Piano 2010)

COMMUNITY SERVICE: Kimberly has been involved in community service since she was young. She has joined the Girl Scouts of America and has received the Bronze Award. In High School, she has been involved in her school clubs and has done community service such as the Relay for Life, Habitat for Humanity, Walk for Leukemia, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Morrow Presbyterian Food Pantry. Kimberly also plays the flute and piano/keyboard on Sundays at the Morrow Presbyterian Church. She also participated at the 30 Hour Famine campaign for hunger in her church.

LEADERSHIP: Kimberly has been involved as a student leader for FCA in school. She also participated in the Lead America for Medicine & Healthcare at Georgetown University in 2010. She is a youth leader at Morrow Presbyterian Church where she plays the keyboard for the Youth Praise Band. She is also involved with the Hapeville Vietnamese Church where she is a youth leader facilitating Bible studies and music for worship. She organized a fundraising event “Night under the Stars” Talent Show and Dinner to raise money for a youth camp. This year, she decided to be a volleyball manager for her sister’s volleyball team at DHS.

CHARACTER: Kimberly is a person of integrity. She was raised in the church and she tries to follow God’s teachings in her life. She complained that in her school, cheating is so rampant and most of her friends get higher grades than she does. She believes that it is wrong and she tries not to follow it even if it means lower grades in her AP classes compared to most of her friends. In 2009, during Youth Sunday at Morrow Presbyterian Church, she gave a testimony to the whole church on how her relationship with God has changed over the years. She babysits her youth director’s children and volunteers at the Food Pantry. She plans to take up Nursing or Medicine in college and work at St Jude’s Hospital for Children in Memphis,Tennessee.

Ms. Moriles strongly competed with 8 other young leaders nominees from the Filipino community of Georgia.

December 2: The 5th Annual Youth Leadership Award & Year End Dinner with Philippine Honorary Consul General Ray Donato

2011-11-22T07:55:00.001-08:00

Galing Foundation, Inc. and The Office of the Philippine Honorary Consulate General announces its nomination process to award the 5th Youth Leader

2011-11-03T05:05:00.000-07:00

Photo taken December 3, 2010: (front) Jordan Alexander Moratin (10 yrs. old), Youth Leader Awardee 2010 with PHCG Raoul Ray Donato, Dodi Ward (pres. Fil-Am of Greater Atlanta), Esther Wilson (chair Federation of Philippine American Organizations in GA), Didi O'Connor (pres. Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA), Joanne Kelly Utt (Youth Leader Awardee 2009), Ana Blackburn (Dir. Galing Foundation, Inc.) & Alan Alberto (co-emcee)

The Board of Galing Foundation, Inc. and the Office of the Philippine Honorary Consulate General announces its nomination process to award a student for its 5th Youth Leadership Award:

Selection Guidelines

The Galing Foundation, Inc. Board or its designee will select a student from the three school levels:

1. Elementary Level
2. Middle School Level
3. High School Level

The student must be from the Filipino community whom you think have made valuable contributions to the school and community in the state of Georgia.

Procedure

Nominations may come from any resident of Georgia nominating any student of Filipino heritage attending a local school in the state of Georgia. Nominations must be in writing and must be mailed (electronically or via postal service) to Galing Foundation, Inc. by no later than November 20, 2011.

I. Selections: A selection committee composed of 3 distinguished members serving in the state of Georgia will make Final selection.

II. Criteria for selection will be based on the following:

A. Academic Excellence: Each nominee shall provide proof of academic achievement as well as active involvement in extra-curricular activities of the school; (copy of report card)

B. Community Service: Willingly volunteers his/her time and resources to schools and/or communities in Georgia when called upon.

C. Leadership: Demonstrates self initiative in promoting school and community's charitable activities. Exemplifies positive qualities and attitudes, which students can look up to;

D. Character: Demonstrates genuine concern for others. Sets a positive example for fellow students to emulate and displays an exemplary disposition towards others.

Award

Each honoree will receive a certificate of recognition and a minimum of $400 U.S. savings bond.

Announcement of Winners will be published via AccessPhilippineAtlanta and Galing Foundation, Inc. website on December 1, 2011.
The Awards dinner will be held on Friday, December 2, 2011 at 6pm at Canton House Restaurant (4825 Buford Highway, Chamblee, GA 30341).

*******************************

2011 GFI Youth Leadership Award

NOMINATION FORM

Complete Name: _______________________________________

Complete Address: ______________________________________

Date: __________________

Please provide a rationale in each area why this person has been nominated.

A. Academic Excellence:

B. Community Service:

C. Leadership:

D. Character:

Submitted by:
Tel. No.:
Email Address:

Upon completion of this form, please email it to: galingfoundation@yahoo.com

or mail it to:
Galing Foundation, Inc.
1050 Wilde Run Court
Roswell, GA 30075

For further inquiries, please call Ana Blackburn at (404) 925-2639

GFI ships educational materials to Mindanao

2011-10-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

October 9, 2011Roswell, GA - Galing Foundation, Inc. ships box no. 173 (invoice no. 2694) of educational materials to benefit children of Mindanao. Educational materials and shipping funds were donated by Friends of Roswell Library, Rebecca Rodriguez, Lauren and Melissa Luetgers.GFI thank its shipping partner Mr. Jay Suarez of Cargo Express (404 395-8890).

Galing Foundation, Inc. participates at COL Social Concerns 2nd annual International Dinner

2011-10-13T09:15:00.000-07:00

September 10, 2011 Roswell, GA - Galing Foundation, Inc. participated at Cross of Life Social Concerns 2nd annual international dinner and auction. The fundraising event featured talents from the youth in a musical skit "Wizard of Roz", a variety of local and international dishes as well as arts and crafts from the states and abroad. The event raised a total of $3,600 to benefit COL's international mission in Malawi (Africa), Padhar (India) and Galing Foundation (Philippines).

GFI donates educational materials to children of Sarangani Province and South Cotabato

2011-10-13T08:17:00.000-07:00

For video, click hereAugust 16, 2011Roswell, GA * Galing Foundation, Inc. ships 3 balikbayan boxes nos. 170, 171 & 172 (invoice no. 1869) full of educational materials to benefit children of Sarangani Province and South Cotabato in Mindanao.Educational materials and shipping cost were donated by members of Cross of Life Lutheran Church, Friends of Roswell Library, Atty. Mai Hecht, Mylene Santana, Lauren and Melissa Luetgers.Special thanks to GFI's shipping partner Mr. Jay Suarez of Cargo Express (404 398-8890).

Galing Foundation, Inc. ships educational materials to benefit Filipino children of Mindanao

2011-09-30T18:12:00.000-07:00

June 10, 2011

Roswell, GA - Galing Foundation, Inc. ships 2 balikbayan boxes no. 168-169 (invoice no. 1446) full of educational materials to benefit GFI Mindanao public schools and public library outreach. The educational materials received were donated by Friends of Roswell Library and Queen of Angels Catholic School in Roswell.

Special thanks to its logistics partner, Mr. & Mrs. Jay Suarez of Sarangani Cargo Express (free pick up & door-door service, contact no: 404 395-8890 or email: georgiabec@google.com).

Click here for video

Ces Alberto, Tony Molina and Bernadette Manaois, volunteers of Galing Foundation, Inc. ships 20 boxes of educational materials to Mindanao

2011-06-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

click here for video

May 27, 2011, Roswell, GA

Ces Alberto, Tony Molina and Bernadette Manaois, volunteers of Galing Foundation, Inc. ships 20 balikbayan boxes (GFI box nos. 147-167) full of educational and classroom materials to benefit Filipino children of Mindanao.

The generous donation was made by Queen of Angels Catholic School in Roswell.

Special thanks to GFI's shipping and logistic partner Mr. Jay Suarez of Cargo Plus.

Friends of Roswell Library donates more children's reading books to benefit GFI Mindanao Outreach

2011-05-16T05:49:00.001-07:00

Roswell, GA

After its annual spring book sale, Friends of Roswell Library donated 2 boxes children's reading books to benefit GFI Mindanao Outreach.

Special thanks to Carol Harisson, president of FRL, the board and its members for their continued support for GFI's library building effort in rural areas of the Philippines.

Friends of Roswell Library has donated books to benefit St. Paul's Misamis Oriental, St. Paul's Medlin, Cebu, Baranggay 8 in Lucban, Quezon, Southern Luzon Polytechnic University, Public Elementary School in Lucban,Quezon, Lucban Public Library, Maligo Elementary School, Maligo Public Library, Landan National High School, Kipalkuda Elementary School and Maligo Day Care School.

Donors of Galing Foundation, Inc. helped purchase 2008 World Book Encyclopedia and Dictionaries for Maligo Public Library

2011-05-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

May 13, 2011

Roswell, GA

Donors of Galing Foundation, Inc. helped purchased 2008 World Book Encyclopedia and dictionaries at Friends of Roswell Library spring book sale to benefit Maligo Public Library located in Mindanao.

GFI would like to thank all donors for their continued support in its mission to help build public libraries in rural areas of the Philippines.

Atlanta Local Federal Coordinating Committee (LFCC) of the Atlanta Federal Executive Board approves Galing Foundation, Inc. for 2011 Metro CFC

2011-05-14T13:35:00.000-07:00

double click for larger image

GFI Ships 2 balikbayan boxes full of educational materials to Mindanao

2011-04-30T04:32:00.001-07:00

April 29, 2011

Roswell, GA - Galing Foundation, Inc. ships 2 balikbayan boxes no. 145-146 (invoice no. 3166) full of educational materials to benefit GFI Mindanao public schools and public library outreach. The educational materials received were donated by friends, members of Northwest Phil-Am Association of Georgia and Friends of Roswell Public Library.

GFI acknowledges financial contributions for shipping made by Jane Rolen through CFC United Way, members of Cross of Life Lutheran Church in Roswell and supporters of the "Think Green" ink & toner recycling program partnership with Cartridge World Lilburn c/o Rene Caballa in cooperation with Mabuhay Store c/o Ces Alberto and Grace Richards of Evolv.

Special thanks to its logistics partner, Mr. & Mrs. Jay Suarez of Sarangani Cargo Express (free pick up & door-door service, contact no: 404 395-8890 or email: georgiabec@google.com).

Galing Foundation, Inc. ships 3 balikbayan boxes of donated materials to GFI Mindanao

2011-04-26T18:29:00.001-07:00

Feb. 21, 2011- Norcross, GA

Galing Foundation, Inc. shipped 3 balikbayan boxes 142, 143 & 144 (invoice no. 101079) full of educational materials received from members of Cross of Life Lutheran Church in Roswell, Friends of Roswell Library, Myrtle Yap, Atty. Mai Hecht and Lauren and Melissa Luetgers.

The educational materials will benefit 5 GFI Mindanao locations namely (1) Landan National High School, (2) Maligo Elementary School, (3) Maligo Public Library, (4) Maligo Day Care school and (5) Kipalkuda Elementary School.

Funding for the shipment of these materials were provided by donors of CFC (Combined Federal Campaign) Metro Atlanta/United Way, supporters of "Think Green", ink cartridge and toner recycling program and "You've Got Talent" at Taki event.

GFI Mindanao 2011 Briefer presented by Jocelyn C. Robles, GFI Mindanao Outreach Coordinator

2011-04-23T17:53:00.000-07:00

Photo: GFI & guests at Taki Steakhouse in Dunwoody, GA

click on play for video

GFI Mindanao 2011 Briefer By Jocelyn Carino Robles
GFI Mindanao Outreach Coordinator presented on Apil 1, 2011 in Dunwoody, GA

INTRODUCTION: Philippines is a democratic Christian country located in the South East Asia. With 7,107 islands, you can expect diversity among cultures, landscapes, natural resources and different levels of development access from the central government and even private services. There are 110 indigenous peoples group mostly living in marginalized areas of the Philippines called the indigenous cultural communities (ICCs). Having quality education is always a challenge since most of the schools in these communities lack the substantial educational resource materials and do not have their own school libraries that could aid the teachers as well as students to have the same academic standard enjoyed by other school counterparts in the town center and even in highly urbanized cities. In May 2007, GFI started its outreach with just one school in the island of Mindanao. As of March 2011, GFI is reaching out to four (4) schools and one (1) local government unit. The service is focused to the indigent school children belonging to two Indigenous Peoples (IP) groups, the Blaan and Tboli. Specifically, GFI’s Mindanao outreach communities are located in Polomolok, South Cotabato and Maitum, Sarangani Province. 2011 Profile of GFI Outreach in Southern Mindanao, Philippines:

I Kipalkuda Elementary School 276 students Contact Person: Mrs. Aura D. Mirayo Phone: 63-920-494-2066 Elementary Curriculum: Grade I – VI Subjects: Filipino, English, Mathematics, Science, Extra-Curricular activities such as Music, Arts, Physical Education, Character/Values, Home Economics, Philippine History Current Needs: 1. Elementary English, Science, Math resource books 2. Webster’s New World pocket dictionaries 3. School supplies e.g. pen, pencils, scissors, bags 4. Music and artwork materials 5. Globe 6. Toys 7. Children clothes 8. Elementary visual aids for teachers in English, Math and Science subjects 9. Flip charts 10. Elementary science experiment apparatus

II Maligo Elementary School
176 students* (83 Boys, 93 Girls) Mrs. Lorelyn S. Fabulare Phone: 63-908-900-9358 E-mail: lorfabz@yahoo.com Elementary Curriculum: Grade I – VI Subjects: Filipino, English, Mathematics, Science, Extra-Curricular activities such as Music, Arts, Physical Education, Character/Values, Home Economics, Philippine History 1. Elementary English, Science, Math resource books 2. Webster’s New World pocket dictionaries 3. School supplies e.g. pen, pencils, scissors, bags, etc 4. Music and artwork materials 5. Globe 6. Toys 7. Children clothes 8. Elementary visual aids for teachers in English, Math and Science subjects 9. Flip charts 10. Elementary science experiment apparatus

III Maligo Day Care School

35 students Gloria L. Paman English, Reading, Arts, Bible Story 1. Story telling books with big pictures 2. Toys 3. Clothes, shoes 4. Artwork materials e.g. crayons, artwork paper 5. Visual charts appropriate for Kinder 1 & 2

IV Landan National High School

500 students (236 male, 264 female) Mrs. Ninfa B. Macabenta Phone: 63-920-432-0894 E-mail: ninfa_macabenta@yahoo.com English I-IV Science I – IV Math I – IV Filipino I – IV History I- IV Values Education I – IV Enrichment Classes include: 1. Reading for 1st & 2nd Year 2. Basic Computer for 3rd Year & 4th Year Current Needs: 1. Periodic table of elements 2. Educational DVDs e.g. Parts & Functions of Human Body, Different Characteristics of Plants & Animals 3. Math measuring devices 4. Math educational CDs 5. Portable graphing board (white board) 6. Weighing scale 7. Puzzles and other board games e.g. scrabble, chess board for National Education Program 8. Crayons and other art materials e.g. construction papers, scissors, rulers 9. Globe 10. TV Set with DVD player for use in classrooms 11. Laboratory apparatus e.g compound microscope 12. LCD and overhead projector 13. Webster’s New World pocket dictionaries 14. Encyclopedia Brittanica 15. Thesaurus 16. English, Science, Math resource books 17. National Geographic Magazines

V Maligo Public Library 3,144 residents Mary Grace C. Wanda Barangay Councilor Phone: 63-921-457-8531 1. Webster’s New World pocket dictionaries 2. English, Science, Math resource books 3. National Geographic Magazines 4. Travel Magazines 5. Time Magazines 6. College course references for nursing, accountancy, marketing, management 7. Public governance references Total Beneficiaries: 4,131

Monday, April 4: Batang Galing, a children's workshop

2011-03-29T09:02:00.000-07:00

The board of Galing Foundation, Inc. invites children (ages 3-12 yrs.) to join Batang Galing, a children's workshop.

Date: Monday, April 4 (11am-1pm)
Place: Mabuhay Store
Address: 4645 Jonesboro Road Suite I
Forest Park, GA

The objectives of the program are to introduce the following:
1. The Philippine alphabet
2. The national flag and meaning of its symbols
3. The anthem and its translation
4. The Filipino values
5. Filipino Games
6. Filipino food

For reservation or questions, please call (404) 290-5416

Sign-up & email the information back to galingfoundation@yahoo.com:
Name of Child:
Age:
School:
Parent:
Email Address:
Allergies:

This program is free and open to the public.

Reference: National Commission for Culture and for the Arts

__._,_.___

Friday, April 1 "Meet & Greet" Ms. Jocelyn Robles, GFI Outreach Coordinator at Taki

2011-03-23T14:51:00.000-07:00

Photo: Jocelyn Robles on right distributing educational materials from Atlanta, Georgia, USA donors of Galing Foundation, Inc.

Galing Foundation, Inc. board invites you to "Meet & Greet" Ms. Jocelyn Robles, GFI Mindanao Outreach Coordinator on Friday, April 1, 2011.

Learn about:
* Mindanao before GFI's intervention
* Mindanao outreach today
* Galing Mindanao, the vision
and
* What is Galing Partnership?

Join us on Friday, April 1 at 5:30pm. Plan to stay and dine in. Taki will donate 10% of your bill less tax to GFI. Sing-a-long with GFI and Circle of Fifths. Sign-up starts at 6:30, performance starts at 7:00pm.

For more information, please contact Ana Blackburn (404) 925-2639.

Save the Great Dates: Make a Difference in the Lives of Filipino Children

2011-03-22T06:47:00.000-07:00

Save the Great Dates:

3/27 - Volunteer Day for Consular Outreach & Community Welcome & Information Program
4/1 - Join GFI Open House with Ms. Jocelyn Robles & Got Talent Night at Taki
4/4 - Volunteer at Children's Workshop at Mabuhay & Mabuhay Anniversary
4/5 - Volunteer for Galing Tour at Fernbank Museum & Picnic at the Park
4/14 - Dine with GE at Altobeli's benefit dinner (Randy Barnes, Toni Luetgers, Jordan Moratin)
4/16 - Join Philippine participants of Dogwood Festival at Piedmont Park
4/17 - Volunteer for GFI School Supply Drive at NW Philam Picnic
4/30 - Volunteer at Cross Of Life International Dinner
5/14 - Join the Munting Tinig Award Ceremony & Family Picnic
5/27 - Volunteer to help pick-up donation from Queen of Angels school for shipping to Mindanao

For questions, please email: galingfoundation@yahoo.com

A big thanks to participants of "I Got Music Talent, and It Shows"

2011-03-17T10:14:00.000-07:00

Photo: Maria Anunziata of Circle of Fifths & Ana Blackburn, GFI Program Director

"I Got Music Talent, and It Shows" raised $68.20 for Galing Mindanao Outreach last
February 5th. The entertainment was lead by Circle of Fifths with special participation from leaders and members of the community.

The GFI Board wish to thank Grace Ragheb, Shereen Ragheb, Arjho and Bernard Turner, Tony, Ces, Aaron, Angelo Alberto, Lucy Baet, Ann, Jordan and Jace Moratin, Magnerica Malley, Ana and Jeff Blackburn, Luisa Godbold and her mother, Rica Sitiar, the Luetgers family and Willy Blanco.

Philippines at Dogwood Festival: Featuring the Blaan Tribal Dance by Jocelyn Robles

2011-03-17T10:03:00.000-07:00

Ms. Jocelyn Robles represents the Blaan Tribe IP of the Philippines at Dogwood Festival on Saturday, April 16.

Click here for more information.

DepEd Office of the Secretary: Luisitro confident that PH can achieve Functional Literacy for All by 2015

2011-03-04T06:43:00.000-08:00

PRESS RELEASE

Luistro confident that PH can achieve Functional Literacy for All
by 2015

With barely four years away from the deadline to meet the education targets, the
Department of Education, through the Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC),
vows to strengthen efforts and spearhead policies and programs that will help
achieve the biggest goal of the country -- “Functional Literacy For All”.
“Yes, it can be done. If we work smartly and diligently together, we can deliver
on our promise,” as Education Secretary Armin Luistro pointed out that the
country’s commitment is not to simply achieve EFA but to provide basic
competencies to everyone to achieve Functional Literacy for All.

During the one-day dissemination forum of the 2008 Functional Literacy
Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) results, Luistro mentioned that,
“while these figures clearly show an increasingly literate world, they also tell us
that progress is excruciatingly slow. This means that one adult in five remains
illiterate.”

Based on United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s
(UNESCO) latest data which were released to mark this year’s International
Literacy Day, documents showed that almost 80 percent of the world's
population aged 15 years and over are now literate, including more women than
ever before.

“It is intolerable that around one in five of the world's adults are illiterate,” noted
Luistro.

It also shows that there are still more than 25 countries that by 2015, are
unlikely to achieve any more than a 30 percent improvement over their year
2000 literacy rates. Without major additional efforts to fight illiteracy, these
countries will account for 92 percent of the world's illiterate population in 2015.
Luistro furthered that the figures “tell us that meeting the goal set by the Dakar
Meeting in 2000 to halve adult illiteracy by 2015 will clearly be an uphill battle.
And unless an extraordinary effort is made, the percentage of illiterate adults will
fall by only another five percentage points by that date.”

UNESCO Director General said that, “There are still 800 million adult illiterates”
(UNESCO Headquarters, 2010). "How can we build equitable information
societies or thriving democracies if so many remain without the basic tools of
literacy? How can intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding prosper when
the literacy divide is so great? And how can poverty be eradicated when the
roots of ignorance are left undisturbed?"

With the situation posing a challenge, DepEd, LCC and the National Statistics
Office (NSO) have joined forces in conducting a functional literacy and mass
media survey among Filipinos. Gathered in 2008, the data spelled out literacy
achievement that will help provide a clearer picture of the scope of the country’s
illiteracy problem.

The very essence of the data gathered is to see “the picture, the
milestonesHhow much have we achieved? Which regions ranked highHor low
and therefore require urgent intervention? Which local communities need to be
given more attention? What policy and action agenda could be derived from
such a situation?,” stressed Luistro.

As Luistro discussed the results, he calls upon everyone – the Council and the
panel of discussants to help LCC prepare key strategies, recommend relevant
policies and map out concrete actions to push forward Functional Literacy for
All. “We need to mobilize strong political and financial support for education,
galvanize additional commitments and build a reinvigorated vision for the
national literacy agenda.”

He also challenged everyone to do their share by saying, “given the remaining
four years to achieve Education For All, I think all of us should be fueled by that
deep sense of urgency for us to be able to achieve that communal vision of
functional literacy for all Filipinos by 2015.”
END

March 9: GFI Volunteer Opportunity

2011-03-03T10:34:00.001-08:00

Re: GFI Volunteer Opportunity

Seeking a few volunteers to come and join GFI at the 2011 CFC (Combined Federal Campaign) Information Session on March 9, 2011

9:00am – 12:00
United Way Building
100 Edgewood Ave. – 1st floor (Logan Room)
Atlanta, Georgia 30303

CFC will go over the 2011 applications, 2010 accomplishments and 2011 changes/updates. Please let me know if you plan on attending.

This is a great opportunity for those who are intersted in learning how they can help or serve as volunteer for Galing Foundation, Inc.

RSVP by Tuesday, March 8: galingfoundation@yahoo.com

Salamat Po,
GFI Board

April 17: NW Phil-Am Assoc. of GA "Easter & GFI School Supply Drive"

2011-03-03T10:30:00.000-08:00

Northwest Phil-Am Assoc. of GA invites you to its annual EASTER EVENT!

APRIL 17, 2011 (SUNDAY) FROM 12PM TO 5PM
BELLS FERRY PARK PAVILION, MARIETTA
2334 Bells Ferry Rd. Marietta, GA 30066

This is a potluck event, free and open to all members and friends of NWPA.
Please bring your favorite dish to share and a liter of soda.

WE WILL BE RENEWING OUR EXISTING MEMBERS AND WE ARE ALSO ACCEPTING NEW MEMBERS AS WELL. FEEL FREE TO COME AND JOIN THE FUN!

WE HAVE GAMES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS. EGG HUNTS FOR ALL AGES! PLS BRING A DOZEN OF PLASTIC EGGS PER FAMILY.

WE ARE ALSO CONTRIBUTING TO GALING FOUNDATION.
A Non-Profit Charitable Organization since 2005 lead by Ms. Toni Daya. It promotes the importance of functional and English Literacy in rural areas in the Philippines. Please, we need your support to help these children in need. And you can help by donating some school supplies and books as well. All your donations is well appreciated.

We hope to see you all! Maraming Salamat Po!

For more information of the event, please call the following Officers:
May Kinnunen @ 678-431-9336
Lucy Andrade @ 770-875-8191
Hermie Ragan @ 678-267-4773
Fely McMichen@ 404-434-0492
Thess Spaid @ 678-591-9686

Munting Tinig rehearsal for Dogwood Festival begins this Saturday, March 5 (2-3pm)

2011-03-03T07:27:00.001-08:00

Galing Foundation, Inc. AMOPP (Art & Music Outreach Partnership Program) with Munting Tinig invites all children ages 5-15 yrs. old to join Munting Tinig, a Filipino Children's Singing Group to perform at the 75th annual Dogwood Festival (http://www.dogwood.org/) at Piedmont Park under the direction of Ms. Virgie Baccay.

For more information on Munting Tinig (on how to join or volunteer), please contact:
Grace Ragheb: (404) 786-7728
Toni Luetgers: (770) 410-7653

Galing's Got Talent Night at Taki

2011-02-10T12:35:00.000-08:00

February 4, 2011

Dunwoody, GA

Members of the community including president of the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA, Mr. Willy Blanco joined to singing favorite songs accompanied by Circle of Fifths at Taki Japanese Restaurant.

A big thank you to Ms. Grace Richards for supporting the Galing cartridge recycle program for education

2011-02-10T12:21:00.000-08:00

January 6, 2011

Forest Park, GA

At Mabuhay Store located in Forest Park, GA, Ms. Grace Richards donates used ink cartridges to support the Galing cartridge recycle program for education of Filipino indigent children. Aside from her service in the military, Ms. Richards is also affiliated with the company Evolv.

"I Got Music Talent, and It Shows", a night for aspiring singers, songwriters and performers

2011-01-10T13:45:00.000-08:00

Galing Foundation Inc. in cooperation with TAKI Japanese Steak House
invites You to
"I Got Music Talent, and It Shows"
A Night for aspiring Singer/Songwriters/Performers
on
Saturday, February 5th
7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Lead by: Circle of Fifths

This is a family friendly night with great entertainment in a casual,
friendly, and supportive atmosphere. Bring your cd, guitar or keyboard...plug in and play.

Dine in and Taki will donate 10% of your total bill less tax to
Galing Foundation Inc. Simply fill out your name, date, and e-mail
address, on the back of the coupon, and present it to your server. These coupons will be available at the door or at Mabuhay Store (404) 361-9313.

Taki Japanese Steakhouse, Dunwoody's newest and most fashionable Japanese Restaurant. The Asian fusion atmosphere and decor is perfect for couples on a romantic date night or a family looking for a special dining experience in the most beautiful environment in the area. Whether you prefer the Hibachi rooms, 30 foot sushi bar or a table in the Dining Room - customer service is Taki’s first concern. Reservation is required for Hibachi dining.

TAKI Japanese Steak House
http://www.takijapaneseatl.com/
4711 Ashford Dunwoody Road
Dunwoody, GA 30338
(770)-522-8888

Galing Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non profit public charitable foundation *
EIN No. 20-5508331
Ana Blackburn: 404 925-2639
galingfoundation@yahoo.com
http://galingfoundation.blogspot.com/

"An Evening of Gratitude", an honoring of contributors from the Filipino community - PHCG Donato

2010-12-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

Photo: (front) Jordan Alexander Moratin (10 yrs. old), Youth Leader Awardee 2010 with PHCG Raoul Ray Donato, Dodi Ward (pres. Fil-Am of Greater Atlanta), Esther Wilson (chair Federation of Philippine American Organizations in GA), Didi O'Connor (pres. Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA), Joanne Kelly Utt (Youth Leader Awardee 2009), Ana Blackburn (Dir. Galing Foundation, Inc.) & Alan Alberto (co-emcee)

click here for video link

Photo: Alan Alberto (standing in for artist Tony Alberto), Grace Ragheb (Munting Tinig), Esther Wilson (NW Philam), Ces Alberto (Mabuhay Dance Group), Atty. Bryan Ramos & PHCG Ray Donato

December 3, 2010, Chamblee, GA

In partnership with the Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul "Ray" Donato, Galing Foundation, Inc. organized "An Evening of Gratitude", an annual year end celebration in recognition of leaders and contributors in the local community and in the Philippines through the Foundation.

Sunday, Dec. 12 : Philippine Day at Fernbank Museum

2010-12-08T08:14:00.000-08:00

Photo: Joy Alberto-King, Alan Alberto, Jem Alberto, Gina Le, Aaron Alberto & Angelo Alberto

click here for link

Come and see "Simbang Gabi", the Philippine Christmas Tree sponsored by the Philippine Honorary Consulate General and Galing Foundation, Inc., decorated by artist Tony Alberto as part of the Winter Wonderland Exhibition at Fernbank Museum of Natural History. (767 Clifton Road, N.E. Atlanta, GA 30307 Information: 404.929.6300 Tickets: 404.929.6400)

On Sunday, December 12 at 2:30pm, join the Mabuhay Atlanta Dance Group as they demonstrate "Tinikling", the Philippine national dance. Children and adults will have an opportunity to meet the dancers and experience this fun and interactive dance.

This educational event is for the whole family.

Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World exhibition runs until January 5, 2011.

From the Board of Galing Foundation, Inc. Maraming Salamat to Galing Partners 2010

2010-12-02T17:42:00.000-08:00

Photo: Ana Blackburn, Toni Daya-Luetgers, Arjho Turner, Jane Rolen, PHCG Ray Donato, Ces Alberto & Grace Ragheb

From the Board of Galing Foundation, Inc. Maraming Salamat to Galing Partners 2010

The Philippine Honorary Consulate General Raoul "Ray" Donato and...
Aaron Alberto
Abundant Life Church
AccessPhilippineAtlanta
Alan Alberto
Angelo Alberto
Al Dampog
Alyssa & Audrey Assis
Ana Blackburn
Andi Mikaela Gener
Anja Hostetler
Anna Carter & Family
Antonio E. Daya
Aries Arugay
Arjho C. Turner
Assist 2 Sell
Ating Tinig (Quartet at Bayanihan)
Atlanta Dogwood Festival
Barbara Knapp & Friends of Roswell Library
Barnes & Noble Bookstore
Bernadette Manaois-Muyot
Bernie Utt
Bernard Turner & BMAD (Buy Me A Dictionary) Project
Beth Villanueva
Bobbie Brooks
Brent Peabody
Brian Hilt & Atlanta Dogwood Festival
Bryan Ramos, Esq. of Ramos Law Firm
Caitlyn Yap
Care Net Pregnancy Resource Center
Cartridge World Lilburn
Ces Alberto
Cheryl Alberto King
Christian Ortiz
Christine Joy
Cross of Life Christian Montessori School
Cross of Life Lutheran Church
Dan Evans & Datu Wali Mission
Dave Maxwell
Didi O'Connor & Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA
Doddy Ward & Fil-Am Association of Greater Atlanta
Dr. Bobbi Hohmann & Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Dr. Josephine Tan & the Asian American Commission for a New Georgia
Dr. Kim Reimann & GSU Asian Studies
Dr. & Mrs. Romy Moriles
Ed Villanueva
Eleanor Estacio
Esther Wilson
Esther Wilson, Chair of Federation of Philippine American Organizations in GA
Father Chito Palang & St. Thomas Aquinas
Father Diosmar Natad & St. Brigid Catholic Church
Fe Abulencia
Filipino community
Fran Tiangco
Friends of Roswell Library
Georgia Council for International Visitors
Gloria Enriquez
Gov. Sonny Perdue
Grace Ragheb
Hermon Rao & Cross of Life Social Concerns Ministry
Jamie Alberto
Jan Marianne Uy
Jane Rolen
Janice Alcalde
Joy Sison & Family
Jocelyn Robles & GFI Mindanao Outreach Volunteers
Jordan Alexander Moratin
Cheryl (Joy) Alberto-King
Kelly Joanne Utt
Lesley Frapier La Fete International
Lani Evans
Lauren Luetgers
Lauren Turner
Lolita M. Daya
Lori Davis
Luisa Godbold
Mabuhay Atlanta Dancers
Mabuhay Store
Mai P. Hecht, Esq.
Manila Mart
Maniya Barredo & The Metropolitan Ballet Theater
Marilyn Doromal
Maritona Duran
Marietta Mauricio
May Kinnunen & NW Philam Association
Melissa Luetgers
Metro Atlanta Combined Federal Campaign & SSA
Metropolitan Atlanta Combined Federal Campaign
MMW Logistics
Mylene Santana, Eden Anastasoff, Marissa Talbot, Livia Hostetler & Atl-Fil Moms
Myrtle Yap
NAAAP-Atlanta
Neighborhood Newspaper
Omar Ragheb
Sandra Spaeth & Queen of Angels Catholic School
Shereen Ragheb
Sachi Koto Communications
Tonices Alberto
Tony Alberto
T-Square Band
Munting Tinig Children's Choral Group
Virgie Baccay
Winnie Alfelor

Friday, Dec. 3: "An Evening of Gratitude"

2010-12-01T07:07:00.001-08:00

Presentations:

*"Leadership & Challenges Ahead of the New Generation”
by Bryan Camacho Ramos, Esq., Founder & C.E.O., The Ramos Law Firm, LLC

*"The Philippines & Consular Matters & Volunteer Appreciation” by
Philippine Honorary Consul General "Ray" Raoul Donato

Jordan Moratin as Youth Leadership Awardee 2010

* "GFI Annual Report" by Arjho C. Turner, Director for GFI Mindanao Outreach

You are invited to.....“An Evening of Gratitude”

The 6th Annual Community Year End Dinner with Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul “Ray” Donato, 4th GFI Youth Leadership Award and Volunteer Appreciation

Friday, December 3, 2010 * Canton House Restaurant
(4825 Buford Hwy. Chamblee, Georgia)

* 6p.m. Registration & Networking
* 7p.m. Program

Emcee: Ana Blackburn

GFI Youth Leadership Selection Committee Members:

Ms. Doddy Ward, Fil-Am Association of Greater Atlanta, Ms. Esther Wilson, Federation of Philippine American Organizations in GA and Ms. Didi O'Connor, Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA

*Entertainment *

Cost: $15 per person
For Reservations, please contact:
Ces Alberto (404) 361-9313
Ana Blackburn (404) 925-2639
email: galingfoundation@yahoo.com

For information, please visit us at http://galingfoundation.blogspot.com/

Congratulations to Jordan Moratin as recipient of the 4th Youth Leadership Award on Friday, Dec. 3

2010-11-30T11:12:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Jordan Moratin (10) for being named the recipient of the 4th Youth Leadership Award. Jordan will be honored at "An Evening of Gratitude", The 6th Annual Community Year End Dinner with Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul “Ray” Donato, 4th GFI Youth Leadership Award and Volunteer Appreciation on Friday, December 3, 2010.

Jordan Alexander Moratin was born on April 30, 2000. He is a 5th Grade student at Grayson Elementary School. He loves to play soccer, sing and dance. His parents are Jhun and Ann Moratin.

Jordan Moratin was nominated by V.T. Charles Gilliam of Loganville, GA.

Friday, December 3: "An Evening of Gratitude"

2010-11-29T09:34:00.000-08:00

(click image to view)

You are invited to.....“An Evening of Gratitude”

The 6th Annual Community Year End Dinner with Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul “Ray” Donato, 4th GFI Youth Leadership Award and Volunteer Appreciation

Friday, December 3, 2010 * Canton House Restaurant
(4825 Buford Hwy. Chamblee, Georgia)

* 6p.m. Registration & Networking
* 7p.m. Program

Presentations

*"Leadership & Challenges Ahead of the New Generation”
by Bryan Camacho Ramos, Esq., Founder & C.E.O., The Ramos Law Firm, LLC

*"The Philippines & Consular Matters & Volunteer Appreciation” by
Philippine Honorary Consul General "Ray" Raoul Donato

*"Youth Leadership Award 2010 Ceremony"

* "GFI Annual Report" by Arjho C. Turner, Director for GFI Mindanao Outreach

*Entertainment *

Cost: $15 per person
For Reservations, please contact:
Ces Alberto (404) 361-9313
Ana Blackburn (404) 925-2639
email: galingfoundation@yahoo.com

For information, please visit us at http://galingfoundation.blogspot.com/

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Premieres "Winter Wonderland"

2010-11-22T08:53:00.000-08:00

Front row: Doddy Ward (pres., Fil-Am Assoc. of Greater Atlanta, Ces Alberto (tres., Galing Foundation, Inc.) & Didi O'Connor (pres., Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA)
Back row: TJ Ward, Dr. Bobbi Hohmann (curator, Fernbank Museum's McClatchey Collection Curator and Winter Wonderland), Tony Alberto (artist, "Simbang Gabi" Philippine Tree) & Ralph O'Connor

Atlanta, GA

Tuesday, November 16 at 6:30pm, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History (767 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta 30307) hosted the premiere of "Winter Wonderland". The exhibit showcases decorated trees depicting celebrations of holidays, cultures and traditions around the world.

"Winter Wonderland: Celebrations and Traditions Around the World" is on view November 17, 2010 - January 5, 2011. The programming series featuring decorated trees, dance groups,
musical acts, craft demonstrations, storytelling and more. Decorated by local community partners and Consulate offices, the trees twinkle with lights, shine with colors, and glimmer with a variety of cultural ornaments that recognize the diversity of cultural celebrations around the world.

Admission to Winter Wonderland is included with Museum admission and is free for members.

"Simbang Gabi", the Philippine Tree by artist Tony Alberto is sponsored by the Philippine Honorary Consulate and Galing Foundation, Inc.

Galing Foundation, Inc. announces its nomination process to award a student for its 4th Youth Leadership Award

2010-11-16T05:27:00.000-08:00

2010 Youth Leadership Award Nomination

Galing Foundation, Inc. is a public not for profit 501 © 3 tax exempt charitable organization initiated in May of 2005. It is committed to offer informational and educational programs through community partnerships as well as promoting the importance of functional and English literacy in rural areas of the Philippines as the foundation for future development, working towards awareness on global citizenry thereby provides educational resources to Filipino indigent children in public schools, libraries and day care centers.

***********************************
You yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. – Titus 2:7
Train up a child the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it. – Proverbs 22:6
************************************

Galing Foundation, Inc. announces its nomination process to award a student for its 4th Youth Leadership Award:

Purpose
In partnership with the office of the Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Atlanta, GFI promotes the importance of volunteerism, active engagement and commitment among the youth, in charitable organizations that benefits the community and beyond for a common good.

The Honorees
2009 – Joanne Kelly Utt of Senoia, GA
2008 - Janice Alcalde of Chamblee, GA
2007 – Omar Ragheb of Atlanta, GA

Selection Guidelines
The Galing Foundation, Inc. Board and its designee will select one student from age 6-17 years old.

The student must be from the Filipino community whom you think have made valuable contributions to the school and community in the state of Georgia.

Procedure
Nominations may come from a resident of Georgia nominating a student of Filipino heritage attending a school in the state of Georgia. The nomination must be in writing and must be mailed (electronically or via postal service) to Galing Foundation, Inc. by no later than November 18, 2010.

I. Selection: A selection committee composed of 3 distinguished members serving in the state of Georgia will make the final selection.

II. Criteria for selection will be based on the following:
A. Academic Excellence: Each nominee shall provide proof of academic achievement as well as active involvement in extra-curricular activities of the school.

B. Community Service: Willingly contributes his/her time and resources to schools and charitable organizations benefiting communities in need.

C. Leadership: Demonstrates self initiative and commitment in promoting educational and charitable activities.

D. Character: Demonstrates genuine concern for others. Sets a positive example for youth to emulate and displays an exemplary disposition towards others.

AwardThe honoree will receive an award of recognition from The office of Philippine Honorary Consulate General & the Board of Galing Foundation, Inc. and a minimum of $400 U.S. savings bond

Announcement of winner will be made by December 1, 2010 through GFI blog
http://galingfoundation.blogspot.com and its media partners.

The Awards dinner will be held on Friday, December 3, 2010 at 6pm at: Canton House
(4825 Buford Hwy., Chamblee, GA 30341)

****************************************************************************

2010 GFI Youth Leadership Award
NOMINATION FORM

Complete Name: ______________________________________________________________

Complete Address: ____________________________________________________________

City_________________________________ GA Zip Code: _________________________

Date: __________________

Please provide a rationale in each area why this person has been nominated.

A. Academic Excellence:

B. Community Service:

C. Leadership:

D. Character:

Submitted by:
Tel. No.:
Email Address:
Upon completion of this form, please email it to: galingfoundation@yahoo.com or
mail it to: Galing Foundation, Inc. 1050 Wilde Run Court Roswell, GA 30075

For further inquiries, please call: Ana Blackburn, GFI Program Director at 404-925-2639

"It is I who is honored to serve." - M. Barredo

2010-11-15T05:35:00.001-08:00

Atlanta, GA

On Tuesday, Nov. 9, a diverse crowd flocked the Fox Theater as the evening opened with a pre-show honoring Ms. Maniya Barredo, the first Filipino Prima Ballerina for her 50th year in performing arts. The United States of America and the Philippine flag were waved on stage as the "Ating Tinig" quartet (Ed & Beth Villanueva, Didi O'Connor and Al Dampog) lead the audience in singing both national anthems, "Star Spangled Banner" followed by "Lupang Hinirang". Students of the Metropolitan Ballet Theater, leaders from the Filipino community namely Doddy Ward, pres. of Filipino American Association of Greater Atlanta (Fil-Am), Esther Wilson, chair of the Federation of Philippine American Organizations in GA (FPOAG), Didi O'Connor, pres. of Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA, Inc.(PACCGA), Phil Aragon, pres. of the Philippine American Center in GA (PACG) and Father Chito Palang of St. Thomas Aquinas who represents the Filipino faith community and Lori Davis assistant to the Philippine Honorary Consul General for the Southeastern U.S. witnessed the award ceremony. "The Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul R. Donato presents the plaque to Ms. Maniya Barredo in recognition of her 50th Anniversary in the performing arts and holding the prestigious title of "Prima Ballerina" and for her outstanding and exemplary service to the Filipino-American community of Georgia and the Southeastern United States. Presented on this day, November 9, 2010" - L. Davis

A congratulatory message from President Aquino was read, conveying his thanks to Ms. Barredo for bringing honor to the Philippines and for her commitment in improving her craft and in developing the next generation of artists.

As Ms. Barredo took center stage, thanking her family, her colleagues, MBT family, the Honorary Consul General and everyone in the audience, she humbly responded to the president's message by saying, "It is I who is honored to serve. As a proud Filipino American, I couldn't be more grateful. We must all stand tall and go out there because we are the resource of the country-the Philippines."

In her introduction to the highlight of the evening, the performance of the multi-awarded (nationally and internationally) Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company, she emphasized that the group is truly an amazing ambassador of goodwill-always true to the spirit of bayanihan.

The pre-show award ceremony of the Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company at the Fox Theater was presented in coordination with the Phlippine Honorary Consulate General Raoul "Ray" Donato, Metropolitan Ballet Theater and Galing Foundation, Inc. Board. The reception was sponsored by the Metropolitan Ballet Theater.

Special thanks to Sachi Koto Communications, Mabuhay and members of the Filipino community.

Save 20% Discounted tickets The Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company

2010-10-02T18:04:00.000-07:00

Special Offer!
The Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company November 9, 2010 at 8:00pm
This is your special opportunity to save 20%. Discounted tickets are $33.00 and $26.00.
ORDERING IS EASY!
Click here or Simply log on to: https://www.foxtheatre.org/superGroup.aspx
User Name: supergroup
Hurry! Order today! OFFER ENDS 11/04/10
You don’t want to miss an opportunity to celebrate this amazing cultural experience.
As an added bonus, The Philippine Consulate is honoring
Prima Ballerina Maniya Barredo for 50 years in the entertainment industry.
Call 404.881.2000 for details.

GFI Volunteer Opportunity at Social Security Administration

2010-09-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

GFI Volunteer Opportunity at Social Security Administration Kick-Off

Galing Foundation, Inc. is seeking for 2 volunteers to assist in handing out information and to join in a "meet & greet" at Social Security Administration’s Combined Federal Campaign kick-off on Thursday, October 22, 2010

Our kickoff event will be on held on the 23rd floor of the Sam Nunn Federal Center, 61 Forsyth Street, SW, Atlanta GA 30303. (Refreshments will be served.)

We hope you could join us in our effort to help Filipino indigent children and the underserved communities in the Philippines.

GFI Volunteer Opportunity at Social Security Administration CFC Kick-Off

2010-09-22T09:32:00.001-07:00

Photo: Janice Golden 2008 CFC Executive Director, Arjho C. Turner GFI Director for Mindanao, Jane Rolen Team Leader, Civil Rights & Equal Opportunity Office and CFC Division Coordinator and Mark Walker Deputy Regional Commissioner Management Operations Support

GFI Volunteer Opportunity at Social Security Administration CFC Kick-Off

Galing Foundation, Inc. is seeking for warm and friendly volunteers to help with the exhibit at Social Security Administration’s Combined Federal Campaign kick-off on Thursday, September 23, 2010 on site at 9:30 a.m.-12 noon (with lunch provided).

The kick-off program will be held at SSA Federal Center, 61 Forsyth St., SW Atlanta, GA 30303 (2nd floor, Conference Rooms B,C,and D).

We hope you could join us in our effort to help Filipino indigent children, their communities and the Philippines.

ABOUT SSA CFC:
The Combine Federal Campaign (CFC) is the only fund raising that is allowed by law in the federal government. And it is fortunate that Galing Foundation, Inc. has been accepted as one of the non-profits to receive pledges from CFC.

CFC is a global undertaking. It affects not only our immediate neighbors, but what we do here and now affects everyone in the world. Poverty, disease, hunger, violence, happens anywhere, everywhere, anytime, and all the time. This is why it is important to give thanks for what we have. And as part of giving thanks, is giving to the less fortunate. What better way to give than to the Combined Federal Campaign! In our own little way, we can “change lives, one gift at a time!”

For our community members who serves in the federal government, please appeal to your friends and employees in your workplace, to support Galing, by pledging to CFC and choosing Galing Foundation --92690! Thank you for "Changing Lives, One gift at a Time." --- Jane Rolen

For more information on Combined Federal Campaign, please visit
http://www.cfcatlanta.org/

Tues. Nov. 9 Fox Theater presents Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Co. & Phil. Consulate Gen. & community honors Prima Ballerina Barredo

2010-09-17T09:45:00.000-07:00

Save the Date!
The Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company November 9, 2010 8:00pm

You don’t want to miss an opportunity to celebrate this amazing cultural experience. As an added bonus, The Philippine Honorary Consulate General and the Filipino community is honoring Prima Ballerina Maniya Barredo for 50 years in the entertainment industry.

Call the Fox Theater at 404.881.2000 for details.

More dictionaries, reading books, text books and school supplies are on its way to GFI Mindanao partners

2010-09-08T03:49:00.000-07:00

More dictionaries, reading books, text books and school supplies are on its way to GFI Mindanao partner schools and library

September 4, 2010-Norcross, GA

Amidst a wave of crowd at Manila Mart store on labor day weekend, volunteers and donors of Galing Foundation, Inc. packed and shipped 5 balikbayan boxes full of dictionaries, reading books, textbooks, bibles and school supplies to benefit GFI Mindanao partner schools and library: (1) Kipalkuda Elementary School c/o Datu Wali Mission, (2)Landan National High School, (3) Maligo Day Care Center School, (4) Maligo Elementary School, (5) Barangay Maligo Public Library.

Volunteer-donor Bernard Turner shares, "I was there earlier this year with my wife Arjho. One thing that touched my heart was I saw that there was a lack of dictionaries, something very simple that we take for granted here in the United States." As a result of their mission trip last May, Mr. Turner came back with a deep desire to help stomp out illiteracy, promote English literacy by introducing BMAD (Buy Me a Dictionary) Project.

Click here for video

With the generous support from GFI's logistics partner since 2005, MMW Logistics Balikbayan Service, the children and teachers in Mindanao, with a high percentage of IP (indigenous people) population, will soon put the donated educational tools into use.

Donations contained in GFI balikbayan box (shipping nos. 137-141, invoice nos. 100839 & 100840) were received from members of Cross of Life Lutheran Church in Roswell, Queen of Angels Catholic School, Friends of Roswell Library, Atl-Fil Moms, Bernard & Arjho Turner, Abundant Life Church in Lithonia and Lauren & Melissa Luetgers.

Funding of the shipment was provided by Cross of Life Lutheran Church & Faith in Action Ministry under Global Outreach and Atl-Fil Moms.

Please click here for more details on GFI Mindanao Outreach or visit: http://www.gfimindanao.blogspot.com/

For inquiries on how you can help, please contact any of the following GFI (all volunteer) Directors:

Ana Blackburn: anafelblackburn@yahoo.com
Ces Alberto: ces.alberto@comcast.net
Arjho Turner: arjhoturner@yahoo.com
Jane Rolen: janerolen@bellsouth.net
Toni Daya-Luetgers: maritoniluetgers@yahoo.com

Cross of Life Lutheran Church donates to Galing Foundation, Inc.

2010-09-07T11:19:00.001-07:00

Photo front row: Arjho C. Turner, Scott P. Luetgers, Ces Alberto
back row: Jane Rolen, Ana Blackburn & Toni Daya-Luetgers

GFI volunteers

September 5, 2010

East Point, GA

The Galing Foundation, Inc. received a check of $800 donated by the members of Cross of Life Lutheran Church & Faith in Action committee under Global Outreach chaired by Hermon Rao.

100% of the donation will be used to fund the shipping and packing cost of the educational materials received from its recent in-kind donors, namely from members of Cross of Life, Queen of Angels Catholic School, Friends of Roswell Library, Barnes & Noble, Abundant Life and Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Turner.

The check was acknowledged by the board during its last meeting held at East Point.

DOH data reports dengue cases in various regions, DepEd starts a campaign

2010-08-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

According to DOH data, ages of patients with dengue range from less than a
month to 95 years old. Most of the cases are also said to have come from
Western Visayas (7680), Central Mindanao (6470), CALABARZON (5739),
Eastern Visayas (5543), National Capital Region ((4744), Southern Mindanao
(4658), and Northern Mindanao (3935).

On Aug. 14, the DepEd started a program to take action through a campaign designed to help prevent the spread of dengue nationwide.

For more information, please visit: http://www.deped.gov.ph/

Queen of Angels donates "My Side of the Mountain", a Newberry Honor book to Filipino indigent children of Mindanao

2010-08-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

August 12, 2010

Roswell, GA

Queen of Angels Catholic School donates 60 pieces of "My Side of the Mountain", a Newberry Honor book to Filipino indigent children of GFI Mindanao.

The organization is grateful to the school for its continued support in promoting English literacy by donations of high standard educational materials.

Special thanks to Ms. Sandra Spaeth, the teachers and families of Queen of Angels.

Philippines: DepEd supports P-Noy on two more years in basic education

2010-08-11T04:19:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

DepEd supports P-Noy on two more years in basic education

The Department of Education chief expresses its full support to President
Noynoy Aquino’s 12-year education cycle to make it at par with the world’s
standard.

DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro reiterates that he is behind P-noy to upgrade the
country’s basic education. “I am not having second thoughts and the President
has my full support in this education reform agenda,” said Luistro.

He furthered that changing the education cycle from 10 years to 12 years is no
easy task but is attainable. However, the processes will take time and may go
beyond the term of the current or even the next administration.

“I believe the process will take some time and may go beyond the term of the
Aquino administration owing to the changes to be made in the curriculum. We
will review it, evaluate the contents, integrate what needs to be integrated and
see how it is going to work. Then we will give our recommendation to the
President,” Luistro explained.

In the President’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA), he included the 12-
year education cycle as part of his reform programs, saying, “Magkakapondo na
po para maipatupad ang mga plano natin sa edukasyon. Mapapalawak natin
ang basic education cycle mula sa napakaikling sampung taon tungo sa global
standard na labindalawang taon.”

Luistro said that once the decision is made to change, it will be irreversible. "We
will begin implementing the new curriculum in the first grade while the second
grade continues with the old curriculum. The following year, those from grade 1
will use the new grade 2 curriculum until they complete the new cycle. After
nine years from first implementation, all those under the previous 10 year cycle
will have graduated and the new one is in effect."

He, however, explained that it is not just the question of adding more years. "It
is not just about adding more years but about giving the Filipino youth a holistic
education curriculum that will prepare them for real life."

Sec. Luistro and the entire department agree to President Aquino when he said,
“if we fix basic education, we fix the long-term problems of the country. And if we
fix the country’s problems, we can build a truly strong society we can proudly
call the Philippines.”

“Although the department takes this as a big challenge, we join the entire
Aquino administration in its goal of bringing hope and contributing for the
common good of our real boss – the Filipino people, in general, and the youth,
in particular,” assured Luistro.

Also, Luistro wants to address backlogs in education resources in two years as
part of the government’s serious reform efforts. END

Philippines: New DepEd Officials named

2010-08-11T04:14:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE
New DepEd Officials named

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro introduced to personnel of the Department
of Education (DepEd) its new set of undersecretaries during the flag ceremony
on Monday.

“This is the team we will be working with in the next few years,” said Luistro.
“They were chosen based on their competence and dedication to public service.”
Of the four newly appointed undersecretaries, one has been a career employee
for over 40 years and the rest are new to DepEd.

“Undersecretary Yolanda Quijano has been with DepEd for 43 years,” said
Luistro of the lone career appointee and only female in the group. “Her long
experience and historical knowledge of existing programs and projects make her
fit to hold the position of Undersecretary for Programs and Projects.”
The other members of the new administration are Undersecretary Alberto Muyot
for Legal and Legislative Affairs, Undersecretary Rizalino Rivera for Regional
Operations, and Undersecretary Francisco Varela for Finance and
Administration.

“Like me, they too sought divine intervention before they accepted my invitation
to join the department,” quips Luistro. “After much reflection, they decided to
respond to the call to help make a difference and accepted my invitation.”
Quijano began her career as an elementary school teacher immediately after
finishing her degree in elementary education at the Leyte Normal School. For
more than forty years, she occupied various positions focusing on primary and
special education until she was appointed to her current post.

A cum laude graduate from the University of the Philippines College of Law,
Muyot taught and practiced law, so to speak. He taught in his Alma Mater as
well as in the Angeles University Foundation, FEU-DLSU Law, Lyceum and
Miriam College. He also practiced lawyer in both private and public capacity.
Muyot is designated as the official spokesperson of the Department of Education
in response to the directive given by President Noynoy Aquino’s communications
team.

Rivera is a known change and organizational development expert who served as
a consultant to various local and multinational corporations. He is seen to fit the
job perfectly given the changes planned for implementation in the government’s
biggest bureaucracy. Before he was invited to join the Luistro team, he was
consultant to Change Consultants, Inc. and HBC, Inc.

Meanwhile, the new finance officer, Varela, has had a long experience in
financial management and administration. He finished his degree in Bachelor of
Science in Mathematics at the Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro City as
magna cum laude. He was president and CEO of the AB Capital and Investment
Corporation before he was invited to join the education portfolio.

Luistro said that while they have assigned initial responsibilities to the newly
appointed Undersecretaries, they are still in the process of reviewing the
organizational structure of the department. “Prior to determining a formal
structure, I have asked them to review and supervise their respective
departments so as not to disrupt the day to day operations of the agency,” he
added.

Galing Foundation, Inc. 2009 Year End Video Presentation

2010-07-13T15:43:00.001-07:00

To view, click on play

GFI ships donated educational materials to Batangas & Mindanao for its library development project in partnership with DepEd & provincial government

2010-06-15T11:39:00.000-07:00

Click here for video

June 14, 2010 Norcross, GA

Educational materials donated by families of Queen of Angels, Shallowford Falls Elementary School and Cross of Life Christian Education are now shipped to Batangas and Mindanao for its library development project in partnership with the Department of Education and the provincial government.

The shipment of these materials (GFI Box Nos. 131-138) is co-sponsored by Cross of Life Social Concerns, Sachi Koto Communications, Inc. and Manila Mart MMW Logistics.

Special thanks to Sandra Spaeth, Toni Samuelu, Cindy Irons, Bryan Burtnik, Hermon Rao, Sachi Koto, Lauren and Melissa Luetgers and all GFI volunteers and donors.

Queen of Angels Catholic School in Roswell donates more books and school supplies to children of South Cotabato & Sarangani Province

2010-06-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

Click here for video

June 9, 2010

Roswell, GA - As Queen of Angels Catholic School clears its educational supplies from children's books, teacher's manuals, vocabulary workbooks, globes, dictionaries, illuminated (30x) microscopes and various school supplies that are no longger being used by its students, school representative Ms. Sandra Spaeth once more coordinated a donation with volunteers of Galing Foundation, Inc. The donation will benefit children of South Cotabato and Sarangani Province of Mindanao.

GFI is grateful to Queen of Angels for its continued support since 2006. The school has generously donated to various GFI outreach located in Lucban, Quezon, St. Paul Cebu and St. Anthony Misamis Oriental.

Shallowford Elementary School and Ms. Samuelu donates to students of Tanauan North Elementary in Batangas

2010-06-11T04:28:00.000-07:00

click here for video

June 7, 2010

Marietta, GA

Shallowford Falls Elementary School and Ms. Toni Nardiello-Samuelu, a kindergarten teacher donates children's books and school supplies to benefit the students of Tanauan North Elementary c/o Cecile G. Carandang, Ed. D. Principal II and Ms. Marisa Cabalijo.

Cross of Life Lutheran Church & Queen of Angels Catholic School donates to children of Datu Wali Mission in Mindanao

2010-06-07T09:52:00.000-07:00

Click here to see video

May 27, 2010

Norcross, GA

Galing Foundation, Inc. ships balibayan boxes nos. 126-130 to benefit children of Datu Wali Mission in Mindanao. The educational materials were donations from families of Cross of Life Lutheran Church and Queen of Angels Catholic School, both located in Roswell, Georgia.

The shipment of these educational materials was funded by Sachi Koto Communications and Cross of Life Social Concerns.

May: Georgia observes Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

2010-05-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

May 25, 2010 * Atlanta, GA

Governor Sonny Perdue, community organization members and leaders gathered at the North Wing of State Capitol for the official proclaimation of May as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month. Through the leadership of Dr. Josephine Tan, Chair of Asian American Commission for a New Georgia Community and Economic Development, a brief ceremony and a reception was held to honor Asian American's consistent contribution in the United States throughout its history. Today, Asian American population in Georgia continues to rise and becoming more actively involved as stake holders of a better and diverse community.

Queen of Angels' annual book donation to benefit children of South Cotabato and Sarangani Province in Mindanao

2010-05-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

Sue Van Rooyen, Media Specialist and Maureen Harkins, Media Assistant

Click here for video

May 19, 2010 Roswell, GA

Queen of Angels Catholic School's annual "Book Swop" project was another success. Through its 4-year long partnership with Galing Foundation, Inc. the educational books are made available to children of South Cotabato and Sarangani Province in Mindanao. "It gives us great pleasure and great delight to help young upcoming readers in the hopes of making them fluent in English and become lifelong readers and lovers of books."- S. Van Rooyen

GFI wish to thank the families of Queen of Angels, Sue Van Rooyen (Media Specialist), Maureen Harkins ( Media Assistant), Julie Smith (Curriculum Director)and Sandra Spaeth (Administrative)

GFI ships its 125th box of educational resource materials to benefit Mindanao

2010-05-18T10:06:00.000-07:00

Click here for video

May 17, 2010 * Norcross, GA

Galing Foundation, Inc. ships its 125th balikbayan box of educational resource material to benefit Kipalkuda Elementary School in Mindanao, a 2009 library fund recipient from the provincial office of Sarangani Province.

Through GFI's Atlanta Community Partnership Program on public library assistance promoting English and functional literacy in rural areas of the Philippines, the educational resource materials were donated by members of Cross of Life Lutheran Church in Roswell, GA and shipment was funded by Sachi Koto Communications, Inc.

Special thanks to Brian Burtnik of Manila Mart & MMW Logistics Balikbayan Box Service.

For more information on GFI Mindanao Outreach, please visit http://www.gfimindanao.blogspot.com/

GSU Asian Studies and Galing Foundation, Inc. co-sponsored by Dept. of Political Science presented "Upcoming Presidential Elections in the Phil...

2010-05-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

Ces Alberto, Aries Arugay, Arjho Turner, Dr. Kim Reimann, Dr. Chip Carey, Toni Daya-Luetgers & Dr. Eric Friginal

Aries Arugay

April 29, 2010

Atlanta, GA

GSU (Georgia State University) Asian Studies Center and Galing Foundation, Inc. co-sponsored by the Department of Political Science at GSU presented "Upcoming Presidential Elections in the Philippines, What is at Stake?" held at the Troy Library, GSU General Bldg.

Panelist were; Henry "Chip" Carey, an Associate Professor in Department of Political Science at GSU who has lived and done research in the Philippines. Eric Friginal, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Linguistics and ESL at GSU and has done extensive research related to call centers located globally, including in the Philippines. Aries Arugay, a Fulbright graduate student in the Department of Political Science at GSU and also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of the Philippines - Diliman. Toni Daya-Luetgers, founder and executive director of the Galing Foundation, a local non-profit organization that promotes education in the Philippines.

Topics presented were "An overview on Philippine politics" by Dr. Carey, "Philippine Presidential Candidates Views on education policy and the importance of English proficiency for international competitiveness by Dr. Friginal, "10 Things to Remember this Election" by Mr. Arugay and "The Filipino community in Atlanta and Georgia" by Ms. Daya-Luetgers.

After the event, Filipino students commented on how they felt they needed to learn about politics in the Philippines. Dr. Kim Reimann, Director of GSU Asian Studies was very pleased with the students' response and thinks there may be some opportunities to do another event next year with the Filipino students organization.

Click here for information on GSU Dept. of Political Science

GFI Mindanao Director visits with PHCG Atlanta on Mission Trip

2010-05-10T12:57:00.000-07:00

Click here for video

May 10, 2010 Atlanta, GA

Galing Foundation, Inc. Mindanao Outreach Director, Ms. Arjho C. Turner visits with Philippine Honorary Consul General "Ray" Donato in his office in Buckhead. The purpose of the meeting was to officially inform the consul of her upcoming trip to Sarangani Province and South Cotabato where she will meet with government officials, community leaders and volunteers as well as to visit GFI outreach schools, libraries and a day care center.

April 26: Turner announces GFI's First Mission Trip in May

2010-04-30T17:51:00.000-07:00

Click here or play for video

Galing Foundation, Inc. Mission Trip to Mindanao in May 2010:

GFI Missions Team:
 Arjho Turner – GFI Secretary/ Mindanao Outreach Director
 Bernard L. Turner – GFI Volunteer
 Latonia Barnaby – GFI book donor

GFI Missions Field (Beneficiaries):
1. Maligo Day Care School – South Cotabato Province
2. Maligo Elementary School - South Cotabato Province
3. Landan National High School - South Cotabato Province
4. Kipalkuda Elementary School – Sarangani Province
5. Maligo Public Library - South Cotabato Province

GFI Mission Objectives:

 To do on-site visit and assessment for Galing Foundation, Inc assisted schools for library development in Polomolok, South Cotabato and in New La Union, Maitum, Sarangani Province (request for current profile of each school, take photo-documentation, receive suggestions for effective partnership especially in giving feedback/reports, etc);

 To assess the public library development of Barangay Maligo, Polomolok and how it impacts public access for adult literacy and as community information hub;

 To officially meet with teachers, students, and respective local government officials for long term sustainability and expansion recommendation after the completion or implementation success of the 5-year development plan of the current beneficiaries, and to award Certificates of Partnership with support from the office of the Philippine Honorary Consulate General of Atlanta.

 To promote the GFI Projects e.g. Youth Leadership Award, Best in English Awards, Arts Workshop. Take photos with GFI awards recipients and also student artists participating the Arts Workshop;

 To do an official turn over December 2009 book shipment and the laminated world maps to each of the beneficiaries; and

 To meet the GFI Mindanao Local Coordinator, Mrs. Jocelyn C. Robles.

April 26: GFI ships educational materials to benefit Mindanao

2010-04-30T17:40:00.000-07:00

In photo: Arjho C. Turner (GFI Mindanao Director), Talan Alberto King (GFI jr. volunteer)and Ces Alberto (GFI Treasurer)

April 26, 2010

Norcross, GA Galing Foundation, Inc. shipped 3 balikbayan boxes full of educational materials to benefit GFI assisted schools in Mindanao.

GFI donors include Cross of Life Lutheran Church in Roswell, Queen of Angels Catholic School, Ms. Lesley Thomas' 5th grade class, Abundant Life Church of Lithonia and Ms. Joanne Roberts.

Special thanks to community partners; Manila Mart (Norcross) and Mabuhay Store (Forest Park).

Cross of Life Social Concerns International Dinner & Silent Auction Benefit

2010-04-30T17:13:00.000-07:00

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Roswell, GA Cross of Life Social Concerns Committee hosted the 1st annual International Dinner and Silent Auction to benefit Phadhar Mission School (India), Malawi Mission and Galing Foundation, Inc. (Philippines) sponsored by Cartridge World Lilburn, India Chef with generous donations from COL members.

In spite of the unfavorable weather condition, the community of faith joined hands to help raise money for its international outreach. Over 60 guests enjoyed an array of homemade dishes from Africa, India, the Philippines, Denmark, Italy and Myanmar. The program began with a blessing lead in Chichewa, Hindi and Filipino then translated in the English language.

The highlights include a Blaan Tribe dance performed by Arjho C. Turner and a talk by Amber Dismer on her experience as a Peace Corp volunteer in Azerbaijhan followed by a discussion.

"At first I was concerned that we wouldn't have enough guests to taste all the delicious international food but slowly the guests started to arrive and we ended up having more people than we expected. Everyone enjoyed and learned so much from this event. We are so grateful and we feel blessed." - Hermon Rao, COL Social Concerns Chairman

The event raised over $1,500 to help COL Social Concerns international outreach.

Save the Earth and Think Green

2010-04-21T15:20:00.000-07:00

Photo: Talan King tossing used ink cartridges into a Cartridge World collection box at Mabuhay Store

April 22, 2010 * Forest Park, GA

Galing Foundation, Inc., Mabuhay Store and Cartridge World (owned & operated by Rene Caballa located in Lilburn) announces its "Think Green for Children's Education" Partnership program in celebration of Earth Day.

Take advantage of the opportunity to help the environment and at the same time contribute to children's education by dropping off used ink cartridges, toners and cellphones. These items will help raise funds to pay for shipment of donated educational materials benefiting public schools and libraries under the GFI Mindanao Outreach.

To drop off, visit Mabuhay Store 4645 Jonesboro Road, Suite I Forest Park, GA 30297
(404) 361-9313 * www.mabuhayatlanta.com

Saturday, April 24 at 6pm: International Dinner at Cross of Life in Roswell

2010-04-21T11:33:00.001-07:00

You are invited to join the International Dinner & Silent Auction Event on Saturday April 24, 2010 6:00PM at the Fellowship Hall sponsored by the Social Concern Committee of Cross of Life Lutheran Church in Roswell.

Please, if you can, come, join us, bring your whole family enjoy and have some fun.

Sample foods from India (Southeast Asia), the Philippines, Myanmar, Malawi, (Africa), China, Germany, Italy and Denmark.

Ms. Amber Dismer will speak about her Peace Corp experience in Azerbaijan and a Blaan Tribe dance presentation by Arjho C. Turner.

This event is free, only a love offering and silent auction event and International desserts for sale to raise funds to help our international outreach in India (Padhar Mission School); Africa (Malawi Missions) & Philippine schools (Galing Foundation, Inc.).

RSVP: Hermon Rao, Social Concerns Committee Chairman at email: hermonrao2@gmail.com

www.crossoflifega.com

April 29: The Upcoming Presidential Elections in the Philippines, What is at Stake?

2010-04-21T10:23:00.001-07:00

The Upcoming Presidential Elections in the Philippines, What Is at Stake?
Date: Thursday, April 29, 2010
Time: 12:30pm - 2:00pm
Location: Troy Moore Library, 9th Floor of the General Classroom Building, GSU
Street: 38 Peachtree Center Ave
City/Town: Atlanta, GA

This event is free and open to the public.

DescriptionPanel Presentation and Discussion: Upcoming Presidential Elections in the Philippines, What is at Stake?
Speakers: Henry Carey, Eric Friginal, Aries Arugay and Toni Daya
Date: Thursday, April 29, 2010
Time: 12:30-2pm
Place: Troy Moore Library, 9th Floor of GCB

Citizens of the Philippines will be electing a new president on May 10. Who are the candidates? What are the stakes in the elections? Come join us for presentations about the political situation in the Philippines and an open discussion about the upcoming elections. We will also hear from Toni Daya about the local Filipino community in Atlanta and Georgia.

This event is sponsored by the GSU Asian Studies Center and the Galing Foundation, and co-sponsored by the Department of Political Science at GSU.

A Note on Our Speakers: Henry "Chip" Carey is an Associate Professor in Department of Political Science at GSU who has lived and done research in the Philippines. Eric Friginal is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Linguistics and ESL at GSU and has done extensive research related to call centers located globally, including in the Philippines. Aries Arugay is a Fulbright graduate student in the Department of Political Science at GSU and also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of the Philippines - Diliman. Toni Daya is the founder and executive director of the Galing Foundation, a local non-profit organization that promotes education in the Philippines.

Representatives of the Philippines at 74th Dogwood Festival in Atlanta

2010-04-21T10:17:00.001-07:00

A Message of Thanks to Philippine representatives at Dogwood Festival

2010-04-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

A message of thanks from the Philippine Honorary Consul General "Ray" Donato to the Philippine delegation at Dogwood Festival.

Please click here for video

Leaders and participants joined La Fete Internationale, a celebration of multiculturalism and camaraderie

2010-04-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

April 17, 2010 Atlanta, GA

Galing Foundation Inc and The Atlanta Dogwood Festival welcomed leaders and participants from the Filipino community at La Fête Internationale last Friday, April 17.

Celebrating the multiculturalism and camaraderie by its international participants, the event showcased a truly international hospitality experience and was held in the newly renovated multi-million dollar Greystone facility. The guests shared and enjoyed a sampling of cuisine from around the world and were treated to some live musical entertainment.

April 24: The Blaan Dance as featured performance at COL International Dinner & Silent Auction

2010-04-10T13:23:00.000-07:00

Photo: Blaan Dance as featured performance

Roswell, GA

Cross of Life Lutheran Church hosts an international dinner and silent auction on Saturday, April 24 at 6pm. The fundraising event will help COL's Social Concerns international outreach in Africa, India & the Philippines.

A Blaan Dance will be featured during the event. It is a cultural dance interpretation in relation to the beliefs of the Blaan tribe in upland rice farming. The dance opens with playing of the two-stringed guitar called Faglung. It is followed by asking God to guide the farmer in choosing the right field or plot to plant, blessing of the plot and then planting rituals. The final act is the thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest as a result of the blessing from God.

The music for the performance was originally composed and produced by the Tubad Performing Arts Group of Malapatan, Sarangani Province.

History or Background of the Blaan Tribe:

The indigenous peoples constitute a significant segment of Philippine society. The indigenous peoples of the Philippines are generally regarded as those who have opted to retain their customs and traditions, most of whom remain steadfast to their ancestral domains. The Blaan tribe is just one of the 110 indigenous peoples groups of the Philippines.

The Philippines National Commission for Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) described the Blaan tribe as another proto-Malayan indigenous peoples group particularly in Southern Mindanao Provinces of Davao del Sur and South Cotabato (http://www.ncip.gov.ph/resources/ethno_detail.php?ethnoid=47). The Blaans are the most numerous of the indigenous peoples group of the newly formed Sarangani Province (www.sarangani.gov.ph). They are found mostly in five municipalities namely Malungon, Malapatan, Alabel, Glan and Maasim. Since ancient times, the Blaans have populated both upland and coastal areas and subsisted primarily on upland agriculture using indigenous technology founded on field rotation. Blaans called the world Banwe or Tah tana. Blaans called their god Dwata, a male god who cannot be described since nobody has seen Dwata in heaven. Dwata is as compassionate as a human being and always expects people to obey him. The people oftentimes pray for Dwata’s blessings and for their wishes to be granted.

The Blaan symbol for religion is the bird called Almugan. The bird serves as a messenger for Dwata. It warns people when disaster is about to come. It also announces the coming of prosperous days. The evil Dwata lives in stones, balite trees, or in the creeks (sbang). Dwatas easily get offended. They are offended when their domicile is distributed or destroyed, when somebody speaks of evil things, or when mortals name them. Those who have offended them must ask forgiveness and offer a deer or a chicken as a sacrifice (damsu) in the place where Dwatas are disturbed (Gloria, et. al. 2006).

The B'laans practice swidden agriculture or the kaingin system as the main source of livelihood (http://www.ncip.gov.ph/resources/ethno_detail.php?ethnoid=47). They grow upland rice, corn, sugarcane, banana, papaya, and other root crops. Some of their crops are used as barter commodities in exchange for tools and other utensils that they need. The B'laans observes certain rituals in their upland rice planting cycle. In these rituals, they make offerings to their deities requesting for signs to know where to best make a clearing for a particular planting season. The Blaan sing songs during planting and harvest of rice. They sing lamgi wherein everyone joins in the singing.

Today, most of the Blaans have been evanglized with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and are involved with different protestant churches/denominations in southern Mindanao, Philippines. Rituals and traditions are usually commemorated during community festivities.

For more information about the Internation Dinner & Silent Auction, please visit www.crossoflifega.com

Galing Supplies for Mindanao

2010-04-04T13:19:00.000-07:00

Brian Burtnik of Manila Mart & Melissa Luetgers of Galing Foundation, Inc.

March 31, 2010, Norcross, GA

Galing (Great) supplies are on its way for the children of Galing Mindanao (invoice 100611). Many thanks to our donors, Ms. Esther Wilson & members of NW Philam Association of GA, Ms. Marietta Pryor of FPAOG (Federation of Philippine Associations of Georgia), Sandra Spaeth & students of Queen of Angels school in Roswell, Wendy Rao & members of Cross of Life Lutheran Church in Roswell.

The shipment contains books and school supplies to benefit GFI Mindanao Outreach schools: Landan National High School, Maligo Elementary School, Maligo Day Care Schol
and Maligo Public Library.

GFI acknowledges continued support from MMW Logistics & Manila Mart as its shipping partner since 2006.

Manila Mart Store is located at 6135 Peachtree Pkwy, Ste. 103 Norcross, GA 30092 (678)389-8595

You are invited to La Fete Internationale on Friday, April 16

2010-04-04T13:15:00.000-07:00

Galing Foundation Inc and The Atlanta Dogwood Festival

Invite you to La Fête Internationale

Come and share a new event at the Atlanta Dogwood Festival – La Fête Internationale –where you can sample cuisine from around the world, mingle with dignitaries from the Atlanta Consular Corps and participants in the International Village & stage. There will also be entertainment and a cash bar.

DATE: Friday, April 16, 2010
TIME: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
LOCATION: Greystone event facility in the heart of Piedmont Park
DRESS: Business attire or national costume

TICKETS: $25.00 - Book on line here or $35.00 at the door (if available)
Go to www.dogwood.org for more information.

We hope to see you there.

GFI thanks its partners COL & Cartridge World (705) for supporting children's education

2010-03-25T11:26:00.000-07:00

March 22, 2010, Roswell, GA

GFI thanks its partners COL Social Concerns Ministry and Cartridge World (705) for supporting children's education.

Cross of Life Social Concerns Ministry in partnership with Cartridge World Branch 705 in Lilburn continues to collect empty ink catridge & toner to benefit COL Christian Montessori (Roswell), Galing Foundation, Inc. (Philippines), Malawi Mission & Padhar Mission School (India).

Recycle *
Drop off used cartridges and cellphones at the designated box located in the church narthex at Cross of Life Lutheran Church (located at 1000 Hembree Road, Roswell, GA 30075)
www.crossoflifega.com

Queen of Angels Catholic School donates reading books & 53 pcs. of brand new Webster's dictionary (Third Edition) for students

2010-03-25T11:16:00.000-07:00

March 24, 2010, Roswell, GA

Queen of Angels Catholic School in Roswell donates reading books & 53 pcs. of brand new Webster's dictionary (Third Edition) for students to benefit GFI schools in Mindanao.

Special thanks to Ms. Sandra Spaeth & Queen of Angels for their continued support.

March 20, 2010 GFI ships educational materials to Mindanao

2010-03-25T11:01:00.000-07:00

GFI would like to thank Atty. Mai Hecht, Joy Sison, Myrtle Yap, Lauren & Melissa Luetgers, CareNet Pregnancy Resource Center, Sue Edris and members of Cross of Life Lutheran Church for the educational materials donated to benefit Landan National High School, Maligo Elementary School, Maligo Day Care Schol and Maligo Public Library in Mindanao.

The shipment (invoice no. 100586) of the above donation is handled by GFI partners, MMW Logistics via Manila Mart based in Doraville, GA

March 21: Last Day of Joining Munting Tinig for Dogwood Festival

2010-03-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

Acworth, GA

Galing Foundation, Inc. AMOPP (Art & Music Outreach Partnership Program) with Munting Tinig invites all children ages 5-15 yrs. old to join Munting Tinig, a Filipino Children's Singing Group to perform on April 17 (Saturday) at the 74th annual Dogwood Festival (http://www.dogwood.org/) at Piedmont Park under the direction of Ms. Virgie Baccay and Ms. Myrtle Yap.

Last day for your child to join is this Sunday, March 21.

Rehearsals are scheduled on:
1. Sunday, March 21 (3-4:30 pm) Rehearsal & a group photo at 4:30-5pm
2. TBA Week of April 4 (Fulton County spring break)
3. Sunday, April 11 (1-3pm) Rehearsal
4. Saturday, April 17 Day of Performance
5. Sunday, April 25 Awards & Celebration

Munting Tinig for Dogwood Festival singers are Janice Alcalde, Alyssa & Audrey Asis, Suzanne & Tyler Cook, Andi Mikaela Gener, Anja Hostetler, Lauren & Melissa Luetgers, Christian Ortiz, Shereen Ragheb, Lauren & Nellie Turner, Jan Marianne Uy & Caitlyn Yap

For more information on Munting Tinig (on how to join or volunteer), please visit www.galingfoundation.com or email us at galingfoundation@yahoo.com

Are you considering retiring in the Philippines? - J. Rolen

2010-03-17T09:42:00.000-07:00

Forest Park, GA

Galing Foundation, Inc., a 501 (c)3 non profit public charitable organization was sponsored by Mabuhay Store (owned and operated by Ces & Tony Alberto) with Ms. Jane Rolen of the Social Security Administration, as speaker on SRRV (Senior Resident Retirement Visa) last Saturday, March 13, 2010. Ms. Rolen shared her first-hand experience on applying for SRRV with some members of the community considering retiring in the Philippines.

This free community service under GFI's IOPP (Informational Outreach Partnership Program) was attended by Ludy dela Cruz, Vicky Alcala, Cerine Alcala, Emy Jordan, Grace Ragheb, Vicky Hanner, Joe Ejipto, Luisa Godbold, Aurora Dunn & Tony Alberto.

Ms. Rolen presented the program and provided information on current available options, the step-by-step application process, fees, eligibility, current enrollment options (for those with & without pension), required documents and its benefits.

"As an SRRV holder, the PRA can assist you in obtainnig basic documents from other government agencies. These include, but are not limited to: Alien Employment permit, Driver's License, Tax Exemption/Extension Certificate, Tax Identification Number and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance."- J. Rolen

For more information, please visit www.pra.gov.ph

In its effort to reach out to members of the community, Galing Foundation, Inc. offers a variety of IOPP (Informational Outreach Partnership Programs). To find out more about IOPP, please email us at galingfoundation@yahoo.com.

Contributed by: Ces Alberto & Jane Rolen

March 28: NW Phil-Am Assoc. hosts annual Easter Egg Hunt Picnic & Galing "Edu-Tool" Drive

2010-03-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

You're invited to join NW Phil-Am Assoc. on March 28, 2010 (SUNDAY)
12 NOON-5PM for its annual Easter Egg Hunt Picnic at Bells Ferry Park Pavilion in Marietta

This is a potluck event. Please bring your favorite dish to share, 1 (one) liter of soda and at least a dozen plastic eggs. There will be moonwalk, games and egg hunt for children of all ages.

Once again, there will be a Galing "Edu-tool" drive. Donate brand new school supplies to benefit Filipino indigent children of Galing Foundation, Inc. Mindanao Outreach.

This event is also a membership drive. Please join or renew your membership.

For more information, contact Esther Wilson 404-395-0378 or visit http://www.nwphil-am.com/For Directions:
Bells Ferry Park Pavilion
2234 Bells Ferry Road
Marietta, GA 30066
Tel: 770-591-3160

Facebook: NorthWest Phil-Am Association of GA, Atlanta
Contributed by: May Kinnunen

Philippine Ambassador H.E. Willy C. Gaa welcomed in Atlanta

2010-03-12T06:59:00.000-08:00

March 5, 2010, Atlanta, GA * The Philippine Ambassador H.E. Willy C. Gaa was welcomed at office of Fisher & Phillips, LLC (945 E Paces Ferry Rd Ne) by Honorary Consul General of the Philippines in Atlanta, Raoul "Ray" Donato, Sarah Hawk, Partner, Global Immigration, Bryan Ramos, Managing Partner, Ramos Law Firm, Alejandro Pascual, IV, Assistant District Attorney's office, Dekalb County, Jenny Lipana Stein, Attorney, Epstein Becker & Green, P.C., Carla Llarena, Legal Secretary, Epstein Becker & Green, P.C., Ramon Palanca, Jr., Attorney, Palanca & Lanzisera, Craig Avena, Records Manager, Fisher & Phillips & Toni Daya, Access Philippine Atlanta & Galing Foundation, Inc.

In the evening, the Ambassador will be the honored guest at the "Filipino Hoops and Heritage Night" NBA Game at Philips Arena (Hawks vs. Golden State Warrior). His 2-day visit will provide him an opportunity to dialogue with the leaders and members of the growing Filipino community whom he strongly encourages to participate in the upcoming U.S. census.

Munting Tinig began rehearsals for Dogwood Festival

2010-03-09T08:28:00.001-08:00

March 9, 2010, Acworth, GA

Galing Foundation, Inc. (Outreach Partnership Program) with Munting Tinig have began rehearsals last Sunday, March 7. Under the music direction of Ms. Virgie Baccay & assistance from Ms. Myrtle Yap, the children began singing Filipino folk songs such as "Bahay Kubo" & "Leron-Leron Sinta" in preparation for the 74th annual Dogwood Festival (International Stage) at Piedmont Park.

Rehearsals are scheduled on:
1. Sunday, March 14 (1-3pm) Rehearsal
2. Sunday, March 21 (3-4:30 pm) Rehearsal
3. TBA Week of April 4 (Fulton County spring break)
4. Sunday, April 11 (1-3pm) Rehearsal
5. Saturday, April 17 Day of Performance
6. Sunday, April 25 Awards & Celebration

Munting Tinig for Dogwood Festival singers are Janice Alcalde, Alyssa & Audrey Asis, Suzanne & Tyler Cook, Andi Mikaela Gener, Anja Hostetler, Lauren & Melissa Luetgers, Christian Ortiz, Shereen Ragheb, Lauren & Nellie Turner, Jan Marianne Uy & Caitlyn Yap

For more information on Munting Tinig (on how to join or volunteer), please visit www.galingfoundation.com or email us at galingfoundation@yahoo.com

March 13: GFI invites you to "Retiring in the Philippines"

2010-03-09T08:23:00.000-08:00

Galing Foundation, Inc. (Outreach Partnership Program) invites you to "Retiring in the Philippines" under the SRRV Program (Special Residence Retirees Visa), a presentation by Jane Rolen of Social Security Administration

Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. to be held at Mabuhay Store (4645 Jonesboro Rd.Suite I Forest Park, GA 30297, Tel. No. 404 361-9313)

English and Filipino translators are available to assist during the program. This event is FREE and materials will be provided.
************ ********* ********* ********* ********* ******
FOR RESERVATION:
Please contact: Ana Blackburn, Program Director at : anafelblackburn@ yahoo.com or call at (404)925-2639

Kung meron po kayong katanungan, tawagan lang si: Ces Alberto sa (404)361-9313 o sa ces_alberto@ yahoo.com

Puwede din pong ipadala ninyo ang lahat ng inyong questions at concerns bago sumapit ang Mar.13, 2010 upang maihanda ni Ms. Rolen ang kaukulang kasagutan at solusyon.

Please provide the following:
· Your name
· Your Tel. No.
· Your Email Address
· Your City of Residence

Magkita-kita po tayo sa Marso 13, 2010!

Munting Tinig a Children's Singing Group to Perform at Dogwood Festival on April 17

2010-02-05T11:08:00.000-08:00

Galing Foundation, Inc. invites all children ages 5-15 yrs. old to join Munting Tinig, a Filipino Children's Singing Group to perform on April 17 (Saturday) at the 74th annual Dogwood Festival (http://www.dogwood.org/) at Piedmont Park under the direction of Ms. Virgie Baccay and Ms. Myrtle Yap.

Your children will learn to sing Filipino songs such as:

* Bahay Kubo, Leron,Leron Sinta and other popular Filipino songs

Schedule are as follows:
1. Sunday, March 7 (1-3pm) Parent Meeting & Rehearsal
2. Sunday, March 14 (1-3pm) Rehearsal
3. Sunday, March 21 (1-3pm) Rehearsal
4. TBA
4. Sunday, April 11 (1-3pm) Rehearsal
6. Saturday, April 17 Day of Performance
7. Sunday, April 25 Awards & Celebration

Rehearsals will be held at the home of Ms. Virgie Baccay in Acworth (4839 Thicket Path Acworth, GA 30102). This program is free however costume will not be provided. Costume will discussed by parents at the meeting. Application form is now available for download from www.galingfoundation.com. website.

For more information, please email us at galingfoundation@yahoo.com or contact:
Virgie Baccay, Music Director (770) 966-8786
Myrtle Yap , Asst. Director (770)367-2861
Ana Blacburn, GFI Program Director (404)925-2639
Ces Alberto: GFI Board (404)361-9313

Presentation on "Retiring in the Philippines" under the SSRV Program (Senior Citizens Retirement Visa)

2010-01-30T05:59:00.000-08:00

Galing Foundation, Inc. invites you to
"Retiring in the Philippines" under the SSRV Program (Senior Citizens Retirement Visa)
a presentation by Jane Rolen of Social Security Administration

Saturday, February 13, 2010
10:00 a.m.
Mabuhay Store
4645 Jonesboro Rd.Suite I
Forest Park, GA 30297
(404)361-9313

English and Filipino translators are available to assist during the program

This event is FREE and materials will be provided.

************ ********* ********* ********* ********* ******

FOR RESERVATION:

Please contact: Ana Blackburn, Program Director at :

anafelblackburn@ yahoo.com or call at (404)925-2639

Please provide the following:

· Your name

· Your Tel. No.

· Your Email Address

· Your City of Residence

Kung meron po kayong katanungan, tawagan lang si:

Ces Alberto sa (404)361-9313 o sa ces_alberto@yahoo.com

Puwede din pong ipadala ninyo ang lahat ng inyong questions at concerns bago sumapit ang Feb.13, 2010 upang maihanda ni Ms. Rolen ang kaukulang kasagutan at solusyon.

Magkita-kita po tayo sa Pebrero 13, 2010!

GFI joins you in welcoming 2010 with great joy & promise.

2009-12-31T08:26:00.000-08:00

In photo: Ana Blackburn Program Director, Toni Daya-Luetgers Exec. Director, Arjho C. Turner GFI Mindanao Outreach Director, Jane Rolen Advisor, PHCG Raoul "Ray" Donato, Ces Alberto Treasurer & Grace Ragheb Cavite Outreach Coordinator

"Love is Kind." - 1 Corinthians 13:4

"A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles."- Washington Irving

Thanks to you, our partner for your assistance in providing public schools and libraries with educational books and school supplies to Filipino indigent children in rural areas of the Philippines. Your support and generosity has touched thousands of lives more than you could imagine.

Thank you for joining us in our journey this marvelous year of 2009. We hope that you will continue to join us in the years ahead.

May you all have a blessed and safe New Year's Eve celebration as you welcome with great joy and promise the Year of 2010. - Galing Foundation, Inc. Board

Mindanao Outreach Blog Update Announcement

2009-12-21T10:48:00.000-08:00

December 21, 2009

Mindanao Outreach Blog Update Announcement
by Arjho C. Turner

The GFI Mindanao Outreach blog has been updated with latest reports from the beneficiary schools as well as essays from students. Please visit this link for details and click photos to view larger version of the image: http://gfimindanao. blogspot. com/

The blog site is also linked to the main website of GFI (www.galingfoundation.com) under the Mindanao Updates.

Thank you all for your support, your prayers and your labor of love in making a meaningful difference among the schools assisted by GFI for library development and improving English literacy in the Philippines.

Have a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!

Dec. 4: A. Turner, Mindanao Outreach Director presents 2009 Year End Report at "An Evening of Gratitude"

2009-12-18T12:20:00.000-08:00

Dec. 4: A. Turner, Mindanao Outreach Director presents 2009 Year End Report at "An Evening of Gratitude"

Please click here for part 1 of video presentation

Please click here for part 2 of video presentation

Visit link for more updates on GFI Mindanao Outreach

Phil. Honorary Consul General Raoul "Ray" Donato on Galing Foundation, Inc. supporters & the Filipino children

2009-12-11T09:11:00.000-08:00

In photo: Ana Blackburn (GFI Program Dir.), Toni Daya-Luetgers (GFI Exec. Dir.), Arjho C. Turner (GFI Dir. for Mindanao Outreach), Jane Rolen (GFI Board of Advisor), Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul "Ray" Donato, Ces Alberto (GFI Treasurer) and Grace Ragheb (GFI Volunteer-Cavite Outreach)

Click here for video message

"Think Green & Support Children's Education"

2009-12-11T08:51:00.000-08:00

In photo: Ces Alberto (GFI Treasurer), Rene Caballa (Owner-Catridge World 705), Paul & Janine Dismer (Cross of Life Lutheran Church Social Concerns Ministry), Arjho C. Turner (GFI Dir. for Mindanao Outreach) and Toni Daya-Luetgers (GFI Exec. Dir.)

"Think Green & Support Children's Education"

Cross of Life Social Concerns Ministry in partnership with Cartridge World Branch 705in Lilburn are collecting empty ink catridge & toner to benefit COL Christian Montessori (Roswell), Galing Foundation, Inc. (Philippines) & Padhar Mission School (India). Social Concerns Ministry will receive $1 per ink (small) cartridge and $2 per toner (large) cartridge.

Drop off your cartridge/s at the designated box located in the church narthex.
Cross of Life Lutheran Church is located at 1000 Hembree Road, Roswell, GA 30075
www.crossoflifega.com

For more information, please contact: tonidaya@yahoo.com

"Gratitude and Giving Back" by Jane Rolen, Regional Chair of the Pacific Asian American Advisory Council (PAAAC) of Social Security Administration

2009-12-10T06:39:00.000-08:00

Photo: PHCG Donato & Ms. Jane Rolen

GRATITUDE AND GIVING BACK (Speech at "An Evening of Gratitude" held last Dec. 4, 2009)
by Jane Rolen

"I want to start off by saying thank you to all our volunteers who did an enormous amount of job for the last year; to Honorary Consul General Ray Donato for the support he continues to give the Philippine community and for the icon that he is; to all the community leaders (Wilie Blanco, Marilyn Doromal, Didi O’Connor, Mae Pascual, etc) for your leadership and dedication and support to our heritage and culture, to our children--- who display an unsatiable desire to learn and keep the Philippine culture and values---you make us proud. A special thanks to my friend, Toni Daya-Luetgers, whom I refer to as the “glue that keeps the Filipino community together.” You are an inspiration for the community. For all the things that you do, thank you, thank you, thank you.

We need to thank God, our Creator, our Father --- who looks after us and despite all the tragedies in our homeland, he opens other doors for us….there is hope for us, and for our country, yet. Yes, at times it is too difficult to move on, but remember “the man who complained he had no shoes, until he met a guy who had no feet……..”

Indeed inspite of all the tragedies, the typhoons, the foreclosures, the economy, there is a lot to be thankful for…. Our health, our jobs, our friends, our families, and specially the gift of life.

My point to all this is……. we can only say thank you properly, if we give back what is given to us…. I say that because, “to whom much is given, much is expected……” I firmly believe, the more you give of yourself, the more blessings come around, especially when you are doing good deeds without expecting anything in return. Or am I the only one here who notices that when you help out with all your heart, it comes back twofold??…..

So how can we give back to our Creator, to our community, to our fellow human beings? Well, I can suggest a few things…

First I want to raise the awareness of the importance of volunteer service and to celebrate the legion of volunteers like you, who contribute personal time, skills, and resources to help others here at home and abroad.
Whether you help families rebuild their lives after a disaster, deliver meals to homebound elderly citizens, assist clients at temporary shelters, mentor youth, build homes or schools, plant trees to sustain our environment, or work tirelessly to eradicate poverty and inhumane conditions, you do more than offer service: You offer hope to those you help and restore our faith in the simple goodness of humankind. Your work and devotion is commendable. Much work has been done. And then, there is still work left to do.

Formidable national challenges such as food insecurity, illiteracy, and homelessness, and global challenges such as global warming, inadequate education, the spread of preventable diseases, and the lack of clean, drinking water, all sound a clarion call for action. Gender inequality, human trafficking, domestic violence, the rise in premature births, hate crimes and incivility are among a host of additional significant issues as well.

One can ask, why somebody doesn't do something about that, but we don't realize that we might be that somebody. What are we doing to help others?
We all have unique talents that we can offer to help preserve our communities and shape the future of our world environment. And the issues mentioned above are summoning us to service.

Now, I know that not everyone of us can volunteer time, resources and talents because of the demands of our everyday life. However, I still believe that in our own simple little way, we can make a difference.

I’ll give myself as an example. Many of you know that time is a resource that I don’t have the luxury of, no matter how much desire I want to get involved. No matter how brilliantly I thought I have scheduled my commitments, I always don’t have enough of this resource. So, I do what I can with what time I have. One of causes I made commitments to is the Combined Federal Campaign. I was so lucky enough to be appointed as the Division Chairperson for the Metro Atlanta Combined Federal Campaign – the only fundraising allowed by law in federal government. In that capacity, I was able to encourage a few non-profits to apply and be accepted as one of the registered CFC non-profits organizations thereby, they can accept donations from the CFC. During the campaign, these non-profits, get a chance to introduce themselves and their work to federal employees, who in turn make pledges for donations to these organizations. So, in aside, to my fellow Filipino federal employees, the next time you make a pledge to CFC, please consider giving to “Galing Foundation”, “Gawad Kalinga” “CPACS” and many other Filipino non—profits listed in the CFC book.

I am a consultant to the Filipino Associations, I spend three to 4 hours a month teaching Tagalog and Ilocano to youngsters. I choreograph Philippine dances for yearly cultural shows. I know this isn’t much, but the idea is sharing what I have. God gave me mouth to speak, I might as well use it to teach. God gave me the ability to move, I might as well use it to dance and teach our young ones to dance our beloved native dances.

Many of you are more talented and skilled than I am. I therefore challenge you to do something for even just one person this coming year…. take a child under your wing to mentor--- or read to an elderly person in a nursing home…. Just do something. Volunteer at a nursing home or local hospital to either distribute lunch or sit with a patient. I guarantee you --- the feeling of having done something good for our fellow human being is much more fulfilling than any performance award you can receive at work. I know --- I’ve been there.

Let us then assess what we have to offer and then make a plan, and follow through, on how we will help others through regular, ongoing acts of volunteer service. Let's volunteer and help others live happier, live healthier, live longer.

Now, I don’t want to be the person between you and the dance floor! Therefore, I close by saying……“Remember, what you are is God’s gift to you…… What you make of yourself, is your gift to God.

Thank you, See you at the next volunteer event, magandang gabi sa inyoung lahat. Maraming salamat po." - J. Rolen

About Jane Rolen
Jane Rolen (Mary Jane Basilio-Rolen) has been the Team Leader for the Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity Office of SSA since April 2008. Jane began her Social Security career as a Claims Representative in Asheville, North Carolina in 1998. As a graduate of the 2003 SSA National Leadership Development Program (LDP), she has held a number of positions including Operations Supervisor, Labor Relations Specialist, Management Analyst, and Executive Assistant to the Regional Commissioner.

Jane is also the Regional Chair of the Pacific Asian American Advisory Council (PAAAC) of SSA. She is also PAAAC’s National Vice-Chair for Field Offices. As a PAAAC officer, she has received awards in recognition of her excellent representation of and outstanding outreach to the Asian community, and her dedication to the mission and goals of the Asian-American Associations. Under her leadership the PAAAC North Carolina Chapter was the most active and successful PAAAC Chapter in the Atlanta Region. Now spearheading the Regional PAAAC, she is leading the region in numerous initiatives including recruiting, career development and upward mobility of Asian employees in federal government.

Jane is an active community supporter. She has served as an officer to the Filipino-American Community of Western North Carolina. As one of the leaders and consultants in the Filipino community, she is a strong advocate for the Filipinos and is always ready to help the newcomers get acclimated in their new environment. She refers them to agencies; coaches them for job interviews; takes them in her home and teaches them to drive. She is very involved with the civic and volunteer activities including fund raising, feeding the homeless, collecting donations for unwed mothers, and performing Christmas carols at nursing homes. As a member of the Filipino Dance Troupe, she performs during cultural shows every year, and also teaches the young Filipinos the culture, language and native dances.

In August 2006, and again in March 2008, Jane donated 12 inches of her hair to “Locks of Love,” a non-profit organization that make wigs for cancer stricken children. In July 2007, Jane was named as one of “Who’s Who in the Asian-American Communities,” honoring her success as an Asian-American who has served as a role model in the Southeast. She was one of the only 6 Filipino recipients for 2007.

Jane was born and raised in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines. The daughter of teachers, and armed with a scholarship and determination, she worked her way through college and graduated with honors from St. Joseph’s College in Quezon City, Philippines. Jane is married to William (Bill) T. Rolen, Jr., a retired FBI agent. The eldest of six children, Jane has three wonderful brothers and two lovely sisters. She is a dotting aunt to 14 nephews and nieces!!!

"An Evening of Gratitude" Invocation by Lehnie Estacio

2009-12-09T11:26:00.000-08:00

Winifredo Alfelor of the Filipino American Christian Church & Lehnie Estacio of Gawad Kalinga GA

Invocation – Friday 4 December 09
by Lehnie Estacio, Coordinator for Gawad Kalinga-Georgia

"Good evening, thank you all for coming. Let’s start this beautiful evening with a loving conversation with God." invites L. Estacio

"Our dear Father in heaven, we come before Your presence tonight with hearts overflowing with gratitude; gratitude for Your unconditional and infinite love for each of us; for Your faithfulness, for your super-abundant, never-ending kindness and mercy, dear Lord God. We are so grateful for Your constant loving guidance and directing our paths day to day, for each moment that we enjoy your world, for every breath we take. We thank You unceasingly and give You praise for the blessings upon blessings you pour out on each of us everyday – everything we have is from you Lord. We thank you in everything and in all circumstances. Thank You for the gift of life, gift of family, gift of friends, gift of community.

Tonight, especially, we are a community, Lord . . . a community connected by a common thread (thread of compassion) with a common goal to make a difference, particularly in the lives of indigent children in the Philippines through Galing Foundation. May our humble work be an offering to you, dear Lord God. We know You are always with us as You yourself said - giving us hope in darkness, strength in our weakness, stirring us when we get complacent, and the fervor to carry on with the mission that you charged us to do . . . but not for our glory, Lord, but for your glory.

Lord, please give us the grace to follow what you require of us, that is, to act justly, to love tenderly and to walk humbly with You as one Body, as brothers and sisters. We ask these in the mighty name of our sweet Jesus who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit one God forever and ever. Amen"

About Eleanor "Lehnie" Estacio:
Eleanor or Lehnie for short, is an active member of the Couples for Christ, a global community of family evangelizers committed to live in God’s righteousness and holiness, evangelizing people through a life of love and service. She is a representative of Gawad Kalinga (which means to Give Care), an organization whose mission is to eradicate slums in the Philippines. It transforms slums into clean, beautiful, peaceful communities and transforms the poor into productive and self-sufficient citizens. It has grown to be a movement of nation building and rapidly transforming the physical, social and cultural landscape of the Philippines

She also volunteers as a teacher in Religion for 4th Graders at St. Brigid Catholic Church as well as a lector and Captain of Welcome Ministry at St. Brigid Catholic Church. She is a former officer of Fil-am of Greater Atlanta and a member of PAWAG (Philippine American Women's Assoc. in GA)

She is married to Alex, with 2 wonderful children namely Henry and Melissa.

Dec. 4: Highlights of "An Evening of Gratitude"

2009-12-09T09:08:00.000-08:00

PHCG Donato awards a certificate and $400 US Savings Bond to Joanne Kelley Utt as Youth Leader Honoree 2009. Also in photo are Lindsay Romasanta of Center for Pan Asian Community Services and Janice Alcade, Youth Leader Honoree 2008

PHCG Donato awards Kevin Moriles for his achievement in community service as Eagle Scout of BSA Troop 115, Atlanta Area Council, Tara District

"An Evening of Gratitude" Program

2009-12-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

“An Evening of Gratitude”

The 5th Annual Community Year End Dinner with Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul “Ray” Donato, 3rd GFI Youth Leadership Award and Volunteer Appreciation
December 4, 2009 * Canton House Restaurant
Chamblee, Georgia

* 6p.m. Registration & Networking
* 7p.m. Program

Welcome & Recognition by
Ms. Didi O’Connor, Recipient of the Consular Community Leader Award 2009 & President of the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA and Ms. Esther Wilson, President of Northwest Phil-Am Association of GA

Invocation by
Eleanor “Lehnie” Estacio, Coordinator for Gawad Kalinga in GA

Presentations
"Immigration & Leadership" by Sarah Hawk, Esq. Partner, Fisher & Phillips, LLC

"Philippine Economy, Election 2010, Consular Matters & Volunteer Appreciation” by Philippine Honorary Consul General "Ray" Raoul Donato

Recognition of Achievement
Mr. Kevin Moriles as Eagle Scout of BSA Troop 115, Atlanta Area Council, Tara District

Award Ceremony
Ms. Joanne Kelley Utt as "Youth Leadership Awardee 2009" by Hon. Consul Gen. Donato, YLA Awardees & Selection Committee: Ms. Lindsay Romasanta of Center for Pan Asian Community Services & Mr. Aries Arugay of University of the Philippines Dept. of Political Science

7:30 p.m. * DINNER

“Canon in D”, a guitar solo by Omar Ragheb, YLA Awardee 2007
“Christmas Medley”, a viola solo by Janice Alcalde, YLA Awardee 2008

7:50 p.m. * Presentations

“The Galing Youth” by Janice Alcalde
"GFI Annual Report" by Arjho C. Turner, Director for GFI Mindanao Outreach
"Gratitude & Giving Back" by Jane Rolen, Regional Chair of the Pacific Asian American Advisory Council (PAAAC) of Social Security Administration

8:15 p.m. * Entertainment * Dancing
Christmas Carols & Community Singing lead by Galing Youth
******
Program's Co-Emcees: Ms. Didi O’Connor & Ms. Esther Wilson

All proceeds of this event will benefit Galing Foundation, Inc. assisted Filipino indigent children, public schools, day care centers and public libraries in rural areas of the Philippines.
www.galingfoundation.com

GFI ships donation to schools in Mindanao

2009-11-28T16:06:00.000-08:00

Nov. 28, 2009

Doraville, GA

Galing Foundation, Inc. volunteers shipped 2 balikbayan boxes full of children's books, teacher's materials, school supplies and children's clothings to benefit students and teachers of Maligo Elementary School, Maligo Day Care, Kipalkuda Elementary School and Landan National High School in Mindanao c/o Ms. Jocelyn Robles.

GFI would like to thank the following donors and partners:
Ms. Sue Edris, Cross of Life Lutheran Church, Ms. Myrtle Yap, Ms. Anna Carter and
Manila Mart Wholesales & Logistics as its logistic partner since 2005. Manila Mart Store is located on 6135 Peachtree Parkway, Norcross, GA 30092 (770) 451-4585.

Galing Foundation, Inc. is a Non Profit Public Charitable Foundation 501 (c) (3) tax exempt status * E.I.N. 20-5508331 * Providing Filipino indigent children in rural areas of the Philippines educational resources to assist in promoting the
importance of functional and English literacy

Dec. 4: Joanne Kelley Utt to receive GFI Youth Leadership Award 2009

2009-11-24T07:06:00.000-08:00

Galing Foundation, Inc. in partnership with The Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul "Ray" Donato and the 2009 Youth Leadership Award Selection Committee comprised of Ms. Gloria Enriquez of UPS, Aries Arugay of UP Political Science Dept. and Lindsay Romasanta of Center for Pan Asian American Services will award Ms. Joanne Kelley Utt as the GFI Youth Leader of 2009 on Dec. 4 at "An Evening of Gratitude", the Annual Community Year End Dinner.

Nominated by Ms. Delma Bruder, Joanne Kelley Utt is a freshman and a straight A student at Starr's Mill High School. She graduated as Valedictorian last May 28, 2009from Saint Paul Lutheran School in Peachtree City. She served as Student Council in 2009 and as Editor of the school paper. She received Perfect Attendance Award for the school year 2008-2009 and Safety Patrol Award. In sports, Kelley is a member of the school's volleyball team, placed as 3rd in Track and Field (2007), received a Christian Award in Basketball (2005-2006) and as MVP in Basketball at Saint Paul School (2006, 2007, 2008 & 2009). In music, she is a member of St. Paul church band as a soloist and a guitar player.

Kelley is a certified CPR and her community involvement includes serving as a volunteer for the Heritage Nursing Home with EDGE church members, Soup Kitchen in Atlanta and CAMP J Zone in Peachtree City. Out of 176 entries, she received 1st place at the 2008 Patriot's Pen Essay Contest by Veterans of Foreign Wars on "Why America's Veterans Should Be Honored"

She has represented the Philippines during the "ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH" held by the 3rd Medical Command (Deployment Support) at the Battle Assembly Hall, Building 900, Fort Gilam, Forest Park, Georgia on May 3, 2009. She is a member of Fil-Am Association of Greater Atlanta and a volunteer at the annual Barrio Fiesta of the South festivity "SANTO NINO" at St Philip Catholic Church, Jonesboro.

She is a member of the Holy Trinity Catholic Church and Life Teen in Peachtree City. She is the daughter of Charles and Bernie Utt of Senioa, Georgia

For more information, please visit: http://projectgaling.blogspot.com/

Our Gratitude to GALING Partners 2009

2009-11-20T06:48:00.000-08:00

Dear Galing Partners:

"He makes the whole body fit together perfectly, as each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love." Ephesians 4:16

As we come to a close the year 2009, we reflect upon the message of God-who is Almighty and loving, who is our foundation and the light of this exciting and GREAT journey, joined by you as one body of love and hope, meaningfully contributing to the lives and future of thousands of Filipino indigent children in Quezon, Cavite, Batangas & Mindanao.

We are grateful to you because you share with us a common goal.

Would you please join us to celebrate an...."An Evening of Gratitude"? The dinner with program will be held on Friday, December 4, 2009 starting at 6pm at Canton House Restaurant.

In partnership with the office of the Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul "Ray" Donato, our gratitude to you and to the following GALING 2009 Art, Education & Community Program Partners (through events such as Dinner Reception in honor of Dr. Carolina Hernandez, EDSA People Power Commemoration, Dogwood Festival, Asia Pacific Heritage Month, Children's Art Workshop, "America, a Children's Art Exhibit", President Corazon Aquino Memorial, Who's Who in Asian American Communities, Consular on Wheels & Newcomers Class, Combined Federal Campaing, Annual Community Year End Dinner, GFI Youth Leadership Award & Volunteer Appreciation)and donors, helping us reach out to Atlanta, Batangas, Cavite, Quezon & Mindanao:

Aaron Alberto
Alpharetta Public Library
Ana Blackburn
Angelie Ella
Anna Carter
Antonio E. Daya
Aries Arugay
Arjho C. Turner
Assist 2 Sell
Atlanta Dogwood Festival
Beth Villanueva
Bobbie Brooks
Brent Peabody
Brie Sison
Caitlyn Yap
Care Net Pregnancy Resource Center
Carolyn T. Fuller & Henry County Public Library System
Cartridge World Lilburn
Ces Alberto
Cheryl Alberto King
City of Roswell Mayor Jere Wood
Cross of Life Christian Montessori School
Cross of Life Lutheran Church
Dave Maxwell
Didi O'Connor
Eleanor Estacio
Eleanor Pascual
Esther Wilson
Faith Bernabe
Fe Abulencia
Filipino Community
Filipino Reporter
Friends of Roswell
Georgia Council for International Visitors
Gloria Enriquez
Grace Ragheb
Imee Niehoff
Jamie Alberto
Jane Rolen
Janice Alcalde
Jennifer Garret
Joel Aquino, PhD
Joy Sison
Lani Evans
Lauren Luetgers
Laurianne Doster & Roswell Visual Arts Center
Lindsay Romasanta & CPACS
Lolita M. Daya
Luisa Godbold
Mabuhay Dance Group
Mabuhay Store
Mai P. Hecht, Esq.
Manila Mart
Margaret Babia
Marietta Mauricio
Marilyn Doromal
Maritona Duran
Melissa Luetgers
Metropolitan Atlanta Combined Federal Campaign
MMW Logistics
Myrtle Yap
NAAAP-Atlanta
Neighborhood Newspaper
Northwest Phil-am Association of Georgia
Omar Ragheb
Pastor Emer Perez
Philippine American Women's Association in Georgia
Queen of Angels Catholic School
Roger Olivares
Roni Buenaventura
Roswell North Elementary School
Roy Alberto
Sachi Koto & SKC Communication
Sarah Hawk, Esq.
Shallowford Falls Elementary School
Shereen Ragheb
Soli Nicholson
Social Security Administration
Stephanie Sison
Sweet Apple Elementary School
Tara Anastasoff
Toni Nardiello Samuelu
Tony Alberto
UPS
Warren T. Jackson Elementary School
Willy Blanco
Winifredo Alfelor

Thank you to the 2009 Galing Art, Education & Community Partners and volunteers from Lucban, Cavite & Mindanao:

Adela Pavino
Aldwin Rubio
Allen Cris L. Pedragosa
Alyssan Grace P. Elloso
Angelou B. Pasion
Anthony Eleazar
April Rose Manulay
Banahaw Community
Barangay Captain Roger Garmino
Brgy. Kagawad/Education Committee Chairperson Bonifacio Nicor
Camille G. Luces
Chery L. Pedragosa
Christian Ryan G. Imperial
Christon D. Daya
Dan Evans & Datu Wali Mission
Darcey Carambao
Dorcas Elloso
Dr. Cecilia N. Gascon, PhD
Elijean Mae F. Moscoso
Eljean Mae F. Moscoso
Elle Sabit Pancho
Esmeralda Jordan
Freddie Afable & CNHS Batch '80
Genesis Anne S. Elona
Geraldine P. Farbores
Ghia Daya
Giselle Mae Elloso
Hannah Rose V. Elloso
Hazel Ann J. Elloso
Ivy Mae Espiritu
Jaime de la Rosa
Jared Elloso
Jean S. Reyes
Jemel Sarreal
Jessa Montenegro
Jocelyn Robles
John Imperial
John Lester S. Mastos
John Linuel S. Matos
John Maynard N. Leones
Jonas Japson
Jonathan Lungayaw
Joyce Molines
Joysie B. Talino
Julie Dean
Justine May L. Gonzales
Kaisy L. Pedragosa
Ken S. Luyao
Kent Cyrics Carandang
Kipalkuda Elementary School
Landan National High School
Lorna B. Angkico
Lucban Municipal Library
Maligo Barangay Library
Maligo Day Care School
Maligo Elementary School
Malou Evasco & Barangay 6 Education Committee
Manuel Garcia & CNHS Batch '80
Maria Ashley Iglesia
Marion Lloyd Picache
Mark Joseph Dean
Mark Martinez
Mary Grace Wanda
Mary Imperial
Mel John L. Paman
MES Principal Lorie Yayong
Municipality of Lucban
Nico Eleazar
Olive Leclair
Oscar M. Villaverde
Paaralang Elementarya ng Lucban 1
Paaralang Elementarya Ng Lucban 2
Paaralang Elementarya Ng Lucban 7
Paaralang Sekundarya Ng Lucban
Pamela Imperial
Piolo V. Elloso
Princess Honey Wanda
PTA of SPED-Hope (Hearing Inpaired) and SPED-(Mentally Challenged)
Razel V. Palero
Rochelle Vito
Rogelio Francisco
Shaina Mae E. Cordova
Sherwin William Hugo
Southern Luzon Polytechnic University & SLPC Library
Steve Raneses
Velma E. Daya
Vernadette D. Elloso
Vince C
Vincent Steve Bucalon
Wenjie C. Wanda
Winmar C. Wanda
Ysmael L. Carino

"Let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up." Galatians 6:9

We hope to see you and may you and your family continuously be blessed by the Almighty God.

Yours truly,
Galing Foundation, Inc. Board

Galing Foundation, Inc. is non profit public charitable foundation 501 © 3 tax exempt status EIN: 20-5508331

For more information, please contact:
Ces Alberto (404) 361-9313
Ana Blackburn (404) 404-925-2639
Visit us at: www.galingfoundation.com

Join us for......"An Evening of Gratitude"

2009-11-14T08:36:00.000-08:00

Join us for......"An Evening of Gratitude", The Annual Community Year End Dinner with Philippine Honorary Consul General, GFI Youth Leadership Award & Volunteer Appreciation

At 6pm on Friday, December 4, 2009 at Canton House (located at 4825 Buford Hwy, Chamblee, GA)

* 6pm Networking
* 7pm Program & Dinner
"Immigration & Leadership" by Sarah Hawk, Esq. Partner, Fisher & Phillips, LLC
"Philippine Economy, Election 2010, Consular Matters & More" by Philippine
Honorary Consul General "Ray" Raoul Donato
"AWARD CEREMONY"
"Youth Leadership Award 2009" by YLA Awardees Omar Ragheb (2007) & Janice Alcalde
(2008) & Lindsay Romasanta, Center for Pan Asian Community Services
"Annual Report" by Arjho C. Turner, Director for GFI Mindanao Outreach
"Gratitude & Giving Back" by Jane Rolen, Social Security Administration

* 8pm Entertainment (Songs of Christmas, Dancing and more......)

We encourage you to take advantage of the early bird special of $30 good until Nov. 30, regularly at $35

Sponsorship opportunities are available

Write your check payable to: Galing Foundation, Inc.
Mail or drop off at GFI Partner Outlets:
Mabuhay Store: 4645 Jonesboro Rd. Ste. I
Forest Park, GA 30297
Assist 2 Sell: 1123 McDonough Place
McDonough, GA 30253

All proceeds of this event will benefit Filipino indigent children, public libraries and schools of GFI Mindanao Outreach (Maligo Elementary School, Maligo Day Care School, Landan National High School, Kipalkuda Elementary School & Maligo Public Library).

Galing Foundation, Inc. is non profit public charitable foundation 501 © 3 tax exempt status EIN: 20-5508331

For more information, contact:
Ces Alberto (404) 361-9313
Ana Blackburn (404) 404-925-2639
Visit us at: www.galingfoundation.com

This event is presented in partnership with The Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Atlanta and representatives from Fisher & Phillips, LLC, Social Security Administration, Gawad Kalinga-GA, Mabuhay Store, Assist 2 Sell, Asian/Pacific American Council, Fil-Am Assoc. of Greater Atlanta, NAAAP-Atlanta, UP Dept. of Political Science, Center for Pan Asian American Services and Cross of Life Lutheran Church

* 8pm Entertainment (Songs of Christmas, Dancing and more......)

We encourage you to take advantage of the early bird special of $30 good until Nov. 30, regularly at $35

Sponsorship opportunities are available

Write your check payable to: Galing Foundation, Inc.
Mail or drop off at GFI Partner Outlets:
Mabuhay Store: 4645 Jonesboro Rd. Ste. I
Forest Park, GA 30297
Assist 2 Sell: 1123 McDonough Place
McDonough, GA 30253

All proceeds of this event will benefit Filipino indigent children, public libraries and schools of GFI Mindanao Outreach.

Galing Foundation, Inc. is non profit public charitable foundation 501 © 3 tax exempt status EIN: 20-5508331

For more information, contact:
Ces Alberto (404) 361-9313
Ana Blackburn (404) 404-925-2639
Visit us at: www.galingfoundation.com

This event is presented in partnership with The Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Atlanta and representatives from Fisher & Phillips, LLC, Social Security Administration, Gawad Kalinga-GA, Mabuhay Store, Assist 2 Sell, Asian/Pacific American Council, Fil-Am Assoc. of Greater Atlanta, NAAAP-Atlanta, UP Dept. of Political Science, Lindsay Romasanta of Center for Pan Asian American Services and Cross of Life Lutheran Church

"It's incredible!. It helped me relate to a person......." - Carolyn T. Fuller, Director of Henry County Public Library System

2009-11-09T07:05:00.000-08:00

(Brent Peabody, Fe Abulencia, Luisa Godbold, Aimee Niehoff, Atty. Virginia Dixon, David Barton, Janice Alcalde, Carolyn T. Fuller, Lauren Luetgers, Melissa Luetgers, Arjho Turner, Alan Hammel, Maritona Duran, Ana Blackburn, Ces Alberto)

Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009-McDonough, GA

"America", a Filipino Children's Art Exhibit presented by Galing Foundation, Inc. in partnership with the McDonough Public Library opens at McDonough Public Library. The opening ceremony was attended by Ms. Carol Fuller, Director of Henry County Public Library System, Mr. David Barton, President (elect) of Metro South Association of Realtors, Atty. Virginia Dixon, Managing Attorney of Morris Hardwick Schneider Jonesboro office and Ms. Janice Alcalde, GFI Youth Leader Awardee 2008.

In a welcome remark, Ms. Fuller expressed "We can help improve lives all over the world thru reading. And it's incredible (exhibit) to see the children's drawings because it helped me relate to a person which makes the giving and sharing much more important."

The exhibit are select drawings by some of the beneficiaries of the foundation from Lucban, Quezon, Cavite, South Cotabato and Sarangani Province. With the exhibit, the McDonough Public Library provides visitors a special opportunity to appreciate each child’s perception of America expressed through art.

The exhibit will run until Nov. 30 at McDonough Public Library (http://www.henry.public.lib.ga.us/mcdonough.htm)

For more information, please visit http://projectgaling.blogspot.com/ or www.galingfoundation.com

You may also contact:
Ana Blackburn, GFI Program Director at 404-925-2639
Ces Alberto, GFI Treasurer at 404-290- 5416

This project was supported by The Office of Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Atlanta, Assist 2 Sell, Mabuhay Store, AccessPhilippineAtlanta, Cross of Life Social Concerns Ministry, NeighborhoodNewspapers.com, GFI Baranggay 6 Lucban Quezon Outreach, GFI Mindanao, GFI Cavite Outreach & CNHS Batch 83 and GFI Volunteers of Atlanta.

A Reminder for Galing Filipino Americans in Georgia

2009-10-30T06:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Great Community Partners:

Re: Daylight Saving Time & General Municipal Elections

As a reminder, here are a couple of links that will provide you with important information on Daylight Saving Time and the General Municipal Elections for Georgia voters.

Please click on:

Nov. 1: Daylight Saving Time
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/10/091026-daylight-savings-time-2009-fall-back.html

Nov. 3: Your voice is important. Let it count by voting!

http://sos.georgia.gov/elections/

Dec. 4: Year End Dinner with PHCG, 2009 YLA & Volunteer Appreciation

2009-10-28T08:55:00.000-07:00

click on image for larger view

Help Galing raise funds by saving your empty catridges and by dropping them off at Mabuhay or at Assist 2 Sell

2009-10-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

Help Galing Foundation, Inc. raise funds by saving your empty catridges and dropping them off at Mabuhay or at Assist 2 Sell Office. Catridge World Lilburn branch will pay $1 to GFI for every cartridge collected. The money raised will be used to help pay for the shipping cost of educational materials collected from Atlanta benefiting Filipino indigent children, public schools, day care centers and libraries.

You may drop off your empty cartridges at participating GFI Partners:

Mabuhay Store: 4645 Jonesboro Rd, #I Forest Park, GA 404 361-9313

Assist 2 Sell Office 1123 McDonough Place McDonough, GA 30253 (678) 583-6011
Office 1-866-583-6011 Toll Free

"America" opens in Nov. at McDonough Public Library

2009-10-24T17:51:00.000-07:00

Galing Foundation Inc. in cooperation with McDonough Public Library presents “AMERICA”
(a Filipino Children's Art Exhibit) starting November 1-30, 2009 with an opening reception on Saturday, November 7th from 10 a.m. - 12 noon at McDonough Public Library

The Galing Foundation is an organization whose mission is to provide Filipino indigent children in rural areas of the Philippines educational resources to
assist in promoting the importance of functional and English literacy.

Join us in celebrating art from the youth of the Philippines.

McDonough Public Library
1001 Florence McGarity Blvd.
McDonough, GA 30252
Library’s phone #: (770) 954-2806
GFI Contacts: Ana Blackburn at 404-925-2639
Ces Alberto at 404-290- 5416
www.galingfoundation.com
GFI is non-profit public charitable foundation; 501C3 Tax Exempt EIN: 20-5508331

Galing Foundation, Inc. as part of CFC 2009 "Give Today and Change Tomorrow"

2009-10-24T17:22:00.000-07:00

CFC Kick-Off Opening Ceremony

Jane Rolen of SSA & Toni Daya-Luetgers of GFI

September 17, 2009

The Combined Federal Campaign Kicked-Off its rally at its Atlanta Regional Office. "Give Today and Change Tomorrow" is its 2009 slogan.

The Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) is the annual fund-raising drive conducted by Federal employees in their workplace each fall. Each year Federal employees and military personnel raise millions of dollars through the CFC that benefits hundreds of non-profit charities.
The Combined Federal Campaign represents over 2200 different charities and GALING FOUNDATION, INC. (Code 92690) is once again a part of the CFC fundraising drive. Federal employees can donate to just one or as many as they like.

For more information about the campaign, please visit http://www.cfcatlanta.org/

Roswell Library, COL Church & Atlanta residents donate to Galing Mindanao

2009-10-24T17:15:00.000-07:00

Atlanta (September 12, 2009) - Galing Foundation, Inc. ships 4 balikbayan boxes full of books and school supplies to Galing Mindanao Outreach donated by Friends of Roswell Library, members of Cross of Life Lutheran Church and Jeniffer Garret.
Special thanks to MMW Logistics.

Help Galing Foundation, Inc. raise funds through WWAAC

2009-08-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

The 4th Annual (WWAAC) Who’s Who in Asian American Communities Leaders & Legends Awards Announces its 2009 Distinguished Recipients

The 4th Annual WWAAC Leaders and Legends Awards is recognizing the accomplishments of (4) four dedicated and successful Asian Americans who serve as role models throughout the nation - on August 29th at the Gwinnett Performing Arts Center in Atlanta.

These distinguished Honorees are being celebrated because of their service, contribution, and dedication not only to the Asian community, but to mainstream America as well. The 2009 Who’s Who in Asian American Communities Leaders & Legends

Honorees are as follows:

Anne Chow
Senior Vice President
Premier Client Group
AT&T Operations, Inc.
The 2009 Who’s Who in Asian American Communities
Leaders & Legends Award

Michael Fung
Senior VP – Wal-Mart Finance and Strategy
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
The 2009 Who’s Who in Asian American Communities
Leaders & Legends Award

Jon C. Iwata
Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications
IBM Corporation
The 2009 Who’s Who in Asian American Communities
Leaders & Legends Award

Norman Y. Mineta
Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation
Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce
Vice Chairman of Hill and Knowlton
The WWAAC Leaders & Legends Lifetime Achievement Award

Vice Admiral Harry B. Harris
U.S. Navy
The Inaugural WWAAC Community Spirit Award

UPS
Gerard Gibbons - VP, US Domestic Business Development - UPS
The Inaugural WWAAC Corporate Champion Award

Through a national selection process, the four elite winners met rigorous standards, faced tough competition from other nominees and, finally, passed the scrutiny of the selection committee made-up of former WWAAC Honorees. Each honoree adds a special and unique quality to the distinguished list of former WWAAC Honorees, which includes government officials, entrepreneurs, artists, and community servants, among others.

For over one hundred-fifty years, Asian Americans have made enormous contributions to the prosperity and success of this great nation. While there are many different Who’s Who organizations recognizing outstanding members of our society, very few, if any, focus on the prominent Asian Americans who have been our role models for success, great contributors to our community and to the nation, and distinguished figures in their own professions.

Help Galing Foundation, Inc. raise money through WWAAC
The Who’s Who in Asian American Communities Awards is proud to offer the Galing Foundation, Inc.a special opportunity in purchasing the WWAAC tickets.

With the purchase of each reserved seating WWAAC ticket at $40 each, the Galing Foundation, Inc. will receive a $10 donation. The reserved seating WWAAC ticket is for theatre style seating with no dinner. A concession stand and cash bar will be provided.

The combined VIP Reception and VIP Reserved Seating Ticket is $150. This includes heavy appetizers and drinks. With the purchase of each combined VIP Reception and VIP Reserved Seating Ticket at $150 each, the Galing Foundation, Inc. will receive a donation of $15.

The WWAAC Awards appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you on August 29the at the Gwinnett Performing Arts Center at 7:00 pm.

For more information on the awards, please visit www.sachikoto.com

Please send us an email at galingfoundation@yahoo.com or contact:
Ces Alberto: (404) 361-9313
Ana Blackburn: (404) 925-2639

Galing Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit charitable organization with 501 (c) 3 tax exempt status.
E.I.N. 20-5508331

Galing Foundation, Inc. provides Filipino indigent children in rural areas of the Philippines educational resources to assist in promoting the importance of functional and English literacy.
Please visit us at www.galingfoundation.com