Kiwanis One Day 2024: Planting for a Greener Tomorrow

“It is never too late to plant trees.“

– Renato “Abong” Tayag, Jr.,
President of the Abacan River and Angeles Watershed Advocacy Council Inc. (ARAW ACI)

Trees are the lungs of our planet, and planting them is one of the simplest yet most impactful acts of service we can offer to future generations. This statement captured the spirit of the event as Kiwanians from Division 2B gathered on November 16, 2024, to celebrate the annual Kiwanis One Day—a global initiative uniting volunteers in meaningful service projects to improve communities, protect the environment, and positively impact children’s lives. Mr. Tayag is a staunch environmentalist in the province of Pampanga and donated 250 seedlings for the Kiwanis One Day Treeplanting project.

Held on November 16, 2024, this year’s Kiwanis One Day celebrated a remarkable environmental initiative. Originally scheduled for October 26, 2024, the event was postponed due to multiple typhoons. However, the new date proved fortuitous as Kiwanians from Division 2B came together under clear skies despite Typhoon Signal No. 2 from Super Typhoon Pepito, allowing for a safe and successful day of activities.

Division 2B Joins Philippine Luzon District’s Call for 20,000 Seedlings

In response to the Philippine Luzon District (PLD) Governor Felix “Jango” Grepo’s call to plant 20,000 seedlings for Kiwanis One Day, Division 2B planted 250 seedlings, reinforcing their commitment to environmental sustainability. This significant contribution began with a vibrant motorcade led by Lieutenant Governor Reynaldo M. Bonaobra, starting from Santo Niño, Lubao, Pampanga. Participants from eight Kiwanis clubs gathered to celebrate their shared mission.

Tree Planting: A Commitment to Nature and the Next Generation

The tree-planting event took place at Sta. Teresa 1st Gumain Riverbank,Lubao, Pampanga, a protected area designated to prevent land erosion caused by quarrying and to ensure a healthier environment for future generations. Kiwanians planted 250 seedlings with the help of students from Del Carmen National High School (DCNHS), who eagerly participated in the activity.

ARAW-ACI, led by Chairman Mr. Renato “Abong” Tayag, Jr. supported the initiative with a generous donation of 250 seedlings, including Narra, Pili, Bamboo, Sampalok, Guyabano, and Atis varieties. Some of these seedlings were planted at the riverbank, while others were donated to DCNHS, where students and teachers committed to nurturing them.

Mrs. Minerva Arceo, also from ARAW-ACI, emphasized the significance of planting trees for environmental protection and as a safeguard for children’s future. “Every tree planted today is a promise of a brighter, greener future for generations to come,” she said. Mrs. Arceo also commended the Kiwanians for their dedication and acknowledging the vital role of trees in preserving the environment for children.

Students from DCNHS eagerly joined in the tree-planting initiative, guided by their teachers, showcasing their dedication to both education and the environment.

One student remarked:
“It’s amazing to know that the trees we plant today will grow with us. Thank you, Kiwanis, for teaching us how to care for nature and for the gifts that will help us in school.”

Lt. Governor Reynaldo Bonaobra expressed his gratitude for the collective effort, stating:
“Every seedling planted today represents our commitment to a greener, healthier tomorrow for the children we serve and the communities we cherish.”

Legacy of Service at Del Carmen National High School

After the tree planting, Kiwanians gathered at DCNHS for a short program. The DCNHS Choir performed the National Anthem and the Kiwanis Hymn, setting an inspiring tone for the event. School Principal Jonar L. Naluz expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support Kiwanis has provided over the past decade, as DCNHS is an adopted school of the Kiwanis Club of Lubao Gems.

The program included a lively gift-giving ceremony, where students received school supplies, tumblers, umbrellas, canned goods, toys, and hygiene kits. Snacks was also provided from the much-loved Filipino burger chain, Jolibee. The smiles on the children’s faces showcased the tangible impact of Kiwanis’ generosity and dedication.

To make the day even more memorable, traditional Filipino games (Palarong Pinoy) such as Tug of War, Luksong Baka, Sack Race, Chinese Garter, Palayok, Jak en Poy, and Agawan ng Panyo were held. The energy and laughter of students filled the venue, with Kiwanis volunteers joining in the fun. KC-Lubao Gems sponsored the Tug of War game, further cementing their connection with the students. The joy and excitement in the students’ faces underscored the importance of blending fun with meaningful service.

Principal Naluz extended his gratitude during the opening remarks, highlighting the ongoing impact of Kiwanis’ efforts on the school’s students. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was also signed to ensure the long-term care of the planted trees.

Principal Naluz shared his heartfelt thanks:
“For nearly 10 years, the Kiwanis Club of Lubao Gems has been a beacon of hope for our school. The support you bring not only uplifts our students but inspires them to dream bigger and aim higher.”

ARAW-ACI Partnership and Ongoing Commitment

ARAW-ACI’s partnership extended beyond their donation of seedlings. Their continued involvement in Kiwanis initiatives signals a shared commitment to sustainable development and community service. This collaboration ensures that the efforts of both organizations will have a long-lasting impact.

Why Kiwanis One Day Matters

Kiwanis One Day is more than a day of service; it’s a global movement uniting thousands of volunteers worldwide to address pressing community needs. The initiative emphasizes Kiwanis’ mission to improve the world one child and one community at a time. By planting trees and distributing school supplies, Division 2B demonstrated how small, dedicated actions can create ripples of change.

Celebrating Kiwanis One Day

Kiwanis One Day exemplifies the Kiwanis motto: “Serving the Children of the World.” It is a global initiative that brings together volunteers to create tangible, lasting impacts on communities. This year’s celebration in Division 2B demonstrated the resilience and dedication of Kiwanians, proving that even storms cannot deter their commitment to service.

Metrics and Impact

• 250 seedlings planted and donated, contributing to environmental conservation and sustainable growth.
• 105 students supported, fostering joy, education, and community engagement.
• nearly 10 years of partnership between Kiwanis Club of Lubao Gems and DCNHS.

Join Us for a Better Tomorrow

The success of Kiwanis One Day 2024 exemplifies the power of community-driven initiatives. From planting 250 trees to providing essential supplies to children, the impact of Kiwanis’ efforts is both immediate and long-lasting. The success of Kiwanis One Day 2024 is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and compassion. The smiles of children, the laughter during games, and the collective efforts of Kiwanians underscore the transformative power of service.

If you’re inspired by these stories of service and want to be part of this global movement, join Kiwanis Club of Lubao Gems today. Together, we can create a greener, brighter future for our children and communities. Join us! Be a part of the Kiwanis Club of Lubao Gems, and help us continue planting seeds of hope, empowering children, and building a better tomorrow. Together, we can make a difference. Let’s serve the children and the world, one act of kindness, one child at a time.