crochet heart corsage at Davao Bamboo Sanctuary and Ecological Park.
Nonprofit organization I am MAD (Making A Difference) Volunteers Inc. recently launched its latest campaign, “Love the Volunteer Vibes,” during its annual volunteer reunion and 14th anniversary celebration in Davao City, spreading the true spirit and positivity of volunteerism.
Known as ‘MAD Meet,’ this year’s gathering of volunteers was significant as it took place for the first time in Mindanao, at the tranquil Davao Bamboo Sanctuary and Ecological Park.
Big Jay Lagang, MAD Meet Davao convenor and Chief of Volunteers for Countryside Operations of I am MAD, expressed pride in breaking away from the organization’s traditional Luzon-based gatherings, marking a significant achievement.
Under the new banner, “Love the Volunteer Vibes: I am MAD to the 14th Power,” the organization aims to amplify positivity and enthusiasm associated with volunteer work.
The theme also supports the country’s “Love the Philippines” campaign, reflecting I am MAD’s tradition of visiting local tourist spots after each outreach program. This year, I am MAD plans to conduct its flagship program, MAD Camp, in at least 12 schools across different provinces and explore seven tourist destinations for its MADventure initiative.
Lagang, a dedicated member of I am MAD and a news anchor/reporter at People’s Television Network (PTV) Davao, hopes that both existing members and newcomers will embrace the spirit of “Love the Volunteer Vibes.”
Celebrating milestones and recognizing volunteers, the two-day reunion highlighted the organization’s accomplishments in 2023, including MAD Camps nationwide, MAD Talks Padayon, MADx, and its newest social enterprise—MADventure. I am MAD was recognized by the Department of Education as one of its “MATATAG” Agenda partners for its commitment to inspiring young people to be part of nation-building.
The evening culminated with “Star MADgic Night: Gawad I am MAD,” honoring volunteers who contributed to the organization’s success in 2023.
Special awardees and raffle winners received tokens from sponsors such as Power Mac Center, The Loop, Alaska Milk Corporation, and others.
Supported by Hacienda Torrentira Agri-Tourism Park and other local partners, MAD Meet Davao 2024 aims to attract more volunteers and donors through a call-for-volunteers music video and pre-registration for MAD Camp opportunities.
MAD Camp, the organization’s flagship outreach program, aims to instill positive Filipino values among school children aged 10-12 through values formation activities and community engagement. Donations for the “Bag of Dreams” school supplies campaign can be made through the “Piso mula sa Puso para sa Pangarap ko” theme.
For updates, partnerships, and volunteer opportunities, follow I am MAD on Facebook or send an email to iammadph@gmail.com.
