Red Cross opens summer programs for the youth

CEBU, Philippines - The Red Cross Youth, the youth arm of the Philippine National Red Cross, has opened the annual Summer Institute, a training program for members of the youth sector interested to part of the Red Cross movement.

This year’s Summer Institute marks the 12th year that RCY has gathered student volunteers and “provide them with ample opportunities to direct their energy and idealism into worthwhile activities.”

The program will take place at the PNRC- Cebu Chapter office at Osmeña Boulevard from May 4 to 31.

Youths between 13 to 25 years old may participate in the program as long as they are confirmed to be physically fit by a medical doctor and with consent from their parents.

“SI is one of the trainings that really refine the youth. It serves as a good training where the youth are exposed to early age volunteer services,” said SI alumnus Alexandra Toledo.

The program covers an orientation about the Red Cross; lectures on International Humanitarian Law, HIV/Aids Prevention Education, Drug Abuse Prevention Education, effective communication, social etiquette, basic health care, and supportive communication; and training on basic leadership, leadership formation and development, community organizing, disaster management, and first aide and basic life support.

Program participants are also given written and practical examinations, outreach programs, and community activities such as mangrove planting.

Ones they complete the program, graduates of SI may opt to proceed to further training in two specializations on Emergency Response Team and Training Team Clinic.

Members of SI Batch 11 Tinna Chan, 14, and Cedelyn Intano, 16, said the activities were “definitely enjoyable” despite being tiring.

“One learns the importance of self- discipline and unity,” Intano said.

Marlouize Villanueva, another alumnus of Batch 11, said the leadership skills honed during the training will be very handy in the future. He said further that the training can mold a person’s character, as the program also extends to morality issues.

One of the recent participations of RCY was during the recent fire in barangay Sta. Cruz wherein members helped in looking after those injured.

Interested applicants need to submit a 1x1 and 2x2 picture together with a P1,000 registration fee. Registration covers training materials, a t-shirt, and graduation fee.

The program will accommodate only 50 participants to allow optimum supervision and monitoring. Queries may be channeled through the PNRC office at 2539793. — Quennie Rose P. Olano (THE FREEMAN)