ALQCF & KC-Lubao Gems: A Lasting Partnership Serving the Aeta Children of Nabuclod, Pampanga


A Mission Born from Compassion and Purpose

The partnership between Alexis Louise Quiza Children’s Foundation (ALQCF) and the Kiwanis Club of Lubao Gems (KC-Lubao Gems) stands as a powerful example of how shared values, compassion, and purposeful leadership can transform the lives of children—one community at a time.

This meaningful collaboration began with a simple yet heartfelt message. Mrs. Joyce “Joy” Penaflor Gaza-Quiza, co-Founder of ALQCF, reached out through the KC-Lubao Gems Facebook page while searching for a trusted local organization that could help their foundation reach the Aeta children of Nabuclod, Floridablanca, Pampanga.

Mrs. Quiza is originally from Floridablanca, Pampanga. As a child, she vividly remembers seeing Aeta children passing by her home—memories that stayed with her into adulthood and planted a lifelong desire to help this indigenous community.

After living for many years in Los Angeles, California, Mrs. Quiza established the Alexis Louise Quiza Children’s Foundation in honor of her daughter, whose life and legacy continue to inspire service, kindness, and hope.


Honoring the Life and Legacy of Alexis Louise Quiza

Alexis Louise Quiza was born on November 10, 1994, and tragically passed away in a car accident on November 15, 2013, just five days after her 19th birthday.

Alexis was known for her warm smile, compassionate heart, and genuine concern for others—especially children. From a young age, she demonstrated empathy and a strong desire to serve those less fortunate. She devoted countless hours to volunteer work and was particularly drawn to organizations supporting children in need.

Notably, Alexis was also a Kiwanian in her teenage years, serving as a Key Club officer of Kiwanis International. This connection made the partnership between ALQCF and Kiwanis especially meaningful. Several officers and board directors of ALQCF also have roots in Kiwanis service, further strengthening the bond between the two organizations.

Through the leadership of Joy Quiza, Alexis’ mother, and Josette Corro, co-founder of ALQCF, the foundation continues to honor Alexis’ belief:

“As one person, I cannot change the world, but I can help change the world of one child.”


Seven Years of Service: A Timeline of Impact

Year 1 – December 2019: “Feeding Our Future”

The first year of partnership marked a milestone for both organizations. The outreach served the entire student population of Nabuclod Integrated School—573 students.

Highlights:

  • Jollibee meals for all students
  • Slippers, hygiene kits, multivitamins, and gifts
  • Interactive games and activities
  • A special appearance by the Jollibee mascot, brought all the way to the mountain community

For many children, this was the first time they had ever seen a mascot. The experience created pure joy, lasting memories, and a sense of being valued. At this time, the foundation was still known as ALQF, and the project slogan “Feeding Our Future” became a defining advocacy.


Year 2 – December 2020: “A Gift of Hope” Amid the Pandemic

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the partnership continued when it was needed most.

Impact:

  • 200 Aeta families received essential Christmas food packs
  • 612 students were provided school supplies, including bond paper for printing learning modules

Dubbed “A Gift of Hope,” this project delivered more than material aid. At a time of fear, uncertainty, and restricted mobility, the outreach restored dignity and reassurance. Hope became a powerful force—reminding families that they were not forgotten, even during crisis. Strict health protocols were observed, with volunteers distributing goods while wearing masks.


Year 3 – December 2021: Sustaining Hope and Joy

As the pandemic continued, ALQF officially became Alexis Louise Quiza Children’s Foundation (ALQCF).

Support Provided:

  • Christmas food packs for 200 families
  • Clothes and toys for children
  • 20 ukuleles donated by OB Guitars for students of Nabuclod Integrated School

The ukuleles introduced music as a tool for learning, creativity, and emotional expression—supporting not just academic development but also mental and social well-being.


Year 4 – December 2022: Strengthening Education and Culture

On its fourth year, the partnership continued its consistent commitment.

Key Contributions:

  • Grocery packs for 200 indigenous families
  • School supplies for 648 students
  • Another 20 ukuleles from OB Guitars

With a total of 40 ukuleles donated, the program helped nurture talent, preserve cultural expression, and encourage confidence among Aeta children through music education.


Year 5 – December 2023: The Largest Outreach to Date

The fifth year marked the biggest service project so far, reaching both families and the entire school population.

Highlights:

  • Grocery packs for 200 Aeta families
  • Jollibee meals for 638 students
  • New slippers and school supplies
  • Jollibee mascot entertainment

As pandemic restrictions eased, children were once again able to gather freely. The event restored a sense of normalcy, celebration, and joy—reinforcing community bonds and childhood happiness.


Year 6 – 2024: “A Gift of Hope” Continues

For the sixth consecutive year, ALQCF and KC-Lubao Gems sustained their mission.

2024 Highlights:

  • 607 Aeta students received school supplies, slippers, and milk
  • Continued support for underprivileged mountain communities
  • Reinforced commitment to the Kiwanis mission: “Serving the children of the world”

This year emphasized consistency—proving that long-term partnerships create deeper, more sustainable impact.


Year 7 – December 18, 2025: Empowering Children Beyond the Classroom

The seventh year reflected growth, innovation, and deeper understanding of children’s needs.

Key Initiatives:

  • McDonald’s meals for 602 students
  • Donation of an Epson printer and six boxes of A4 bond paper to support school module printing
  • Pajamas for elementary pupils, promoting warmth, comfort, and dignity—especially important for children living in mountain areas
  • Wristwatches for all Senior High students, encouraging time discipline, responsibility, and preparedness as they transition to higher education or employment
  • Loot bags, sweets, and toys for added joy

This outreach addressed both immediate needs and long-term development, supporting education, personal growth, and self-esteem.


Significance and Lasting Impact of the Partnership

The enduring partnership between ALQCF and Kiwanis Club of Lubao Gems demonstrates the power of collaboration rooted in trust, shared values, and cultural respect.

Key impacts include:

  • Improved access to education and learning resources
  • Enhanced nutrition and health support
  • Emotional upliftment and restored hope
  • Cultural enrichment through music and creativity
  • Consistent presence that builds trust within the Aeta community

Most importantly, the partnership ensures that service is not a one-time act, but a sustained commitment to child welfare.


Looking Ahead: Sustaining Hope for Future Generations

As the Kiwanis Club of Lubao Gems extends its heartfelt gratitude to Alexis Louise Quiza Children’s Foundation, both organizations remain hopeful that this partnership will continue for many years to come.

The Aeta children of Nabuclod need continued support, advocacy, and opportunity. Together, ALQCF and KC-Lubao Gems are proving that compassion, when sustained, creates meaningful change—one child at a time.


Call to Action

We invite individuals, organizations, and advocates of children’s welfare to join this mission of compassion and service. You may support the Alexis Louise Quiza Children’s Foundation (ALQCF) and its partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Lubao Gems by becoming a donor, program partner, volunteer, or sponsor of future outreach initiatives.

Your involvement—whether through financial support, in-kind donations, or professional expertise—can help sustain education, nutrition, and hope for the Aeta children of Nabuclod and other underserved communities.

Together, let us continue building a future where every child is seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.

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