In the Philippines, ongoing religious conflict and non-stop natural disasters have caused suffering for millions of Filipino children. This program empowers elementary school children who are victims. Interfaith education teaches, with arts and sports, provides students with the value of kindness and diversity. We provide counselors, books, school supplies, clean water, and hygiene for 500 children. We have previously created successful programs for more than 200,000 children in Mindanao region.
The conflicts among people of various ethnic and religious groups are growing around the world. Fear, hatred and chaos has been part of life in many countries among countless children and families. This program instills reconciliation, kindness and hope. Schools are transformed into "peace zones. The most precious elements of communities -- the children -- become the center of mediation for their warring parents. This model micro-project focuses on 500 bright but traumatized children.
Our main project directly assists 30,000 children in around 100 elementary schools. They are overcoming extreme poverty and communal violence through integrated literacy, livelihood skills, and health support. We have created a counseling network for Muslim and Christian educators and children to share their new skills, hopes, and dreams. Mothers and fathers of pupils assist teachers to cook daily meals. We provide thousands of books, school supplies, garden tools, and clean water systems.
The long-term positive impact of this program empowers Christian and Muslim communities to learn from each other through their respective best practices. Asia America Initiative serves as a communication bridge for action. Our social media facilitates transparent communication and dispels fear and myths that alienate communities who feel alone and abandoned. Starting in schools, positive interaction and equal treatment of various cultural groups by AAI facilitate mutual respect and inspiration.
