What’s your favorite charity?

Calamities that bring out the best in everyone. We become less concerned about our problems and drop everything to go an extra mile for others. But we don’t have to wait for stormy weather to bring out the best in us. We can be part of so many charities and foundations that aim to help not only other people but rebuild our country.

I asked some friends to share with us their favorite charities and their answers can hopefully guide you on what charity or foundation will best suit you.

Bettina Lopez Osmeña,

managing director, Organic Basket

My favorite cause is I Can Serve Foundation, where I am an active member. The threat of breast cancer in our country is very real.  We are in the top 10 worldwide in terms of incidence. We need to arm our women with information and let them know that early detection is the only cure. I am the beneficiary of early detection. I am alive and well 10 years after diagnosis. Go out and have your annual mammogram.

Sharon Cuneta Pangilinan, actress

I have a number of favorite charities, among them Gawad Kalinga and PAWS. Gawad Kalinga  because they give the needy houses that they can make into homes, giving them hope and inspiration. PAWS because people will always look out for fellow human beings but God’s other beloved creatures need and have only us to protect them.

Rep. Joe Duavit, 1st District, Rizal

My favorite charity is Kapuso Foundation. This is because it has a nationwide reach whose emphasis is education and progress.

Ogie Alcasid, singer/songwriter

I help World Vision and Childhope Asia. Children are the ones that really need help because they own the future. If we are able to help them then they can help the generation that goes after them. We can instill a culture of helping and giving aid from generation to generation.

Kakai M. Arroyo, businesswoman

Because our country is so prone to natural calamities, the Philippine National Red Cross has grown to become my favorite charity. I prefer it because it is wide-reaching, apolitical, and extremely efficient. I also believe in the selfless, no-nonsense leadership of its head, former Sen. Richard Gordon.

Rep. Gina De Venecia, 4th District, Pangasinan

My favorite charity is Haven for Women in Muntinlupa City under the auspices of DSWD. I founded it in 1995 with the congressional spouses to help women victims of abuses in our country. I like it because it’s all about transformation and second chances. It gives hope to women in dire circumstances to live and dream again. Aside from being a temporary refuge, this center provides emotional healing therapies to rebuild their self-esteem and teaches them livelihood skills so that they will be self-reliant and capable of enjoying the God-given promise of living a better life.

Garlic Garcia, head writer, The Voice of the Philippines, ABSCBN

I have always believed in the cause of Habitat for Humanity. It’s an international organization rooted in Christian values and aims to provide homes for the less fortunate. It has grown exponentially because of the great people on the board and the young people  who are pushing it forward with the Habitat Youth Council. I have volunteered my time and efforts to this cause because of how they not only build homes but also build hope and dreams for others, ultimately building lives. I encourage every Filipino to do the same. Find a cause that speaks to your heart and dedicate yourself to it.  There are things you do for your mind; volunteering is something you do for your heart. The rewards are immeasurable.

Former Senator Migs Zubiri

My favorite charity is the Philippine Red Cross of which I’ve been a member of its board of governors for the past 12 years. Its motto, “Always first, always ready, always there” has saved countless lives and has earned it the reputation as the premiere humanitarian organization the world over. We do not only give blood and social services but are focused on disaster and safety management as well. Just as in the past and recent floods and calamities, our volunteers risk their lives and dedicate themselves to the service of humanity. They are my true heroes!