How I am MAD Volunteers Inc. is making a difference in Philippine education

If you are looking for a way to give back to the community and make a positive impact on the lives of Filipino learners, you might want to check out I am MAD Volunteers Inc., a nonprofit organization that has been recognized by the Department of Education (DepEd) for its outstanding contribution to the country’s basic education.

I am MAD, which stands for Making a Difference, is a group of young professionals and students who share a common vision of empowering the youth through values formation, leadership development, and community service. The organization was founded in 2010 by Maco Ravanzo, a former teacher who wanted to inspire his students to become agents of change.

Since then, I am MAD has grown to have more than 2,000 volunteers across the country, who have reached out to over 20,000 learners in more than 100 communities. The organization’s main program is the “MAD Camp,” a two-day activity that aims to instill positive values, such as respect, responsibility, honesty, and kindness, among the participants. The camp also features fun games, workshops, and mentoring sessions that help the learners discover their potential and pursue their dreams.

Aside from the MAD Camp, I am MAD also conducts “MAD Talks,” a series of online and offline events that showcase inspiring stories of volunteerism and social responsibility. The talks aim to motivate the audience to take action and make a difference in their own ways.

On February 20, 2024, I am MAD received a prestigious award from DepEd for its “unwavering commitment, exceptional collaboration, and invaluable contribution in support of the MATATAG Agenda for the DepEd Basic Education Development Plan, helping DepEd fulfill its mandate in providing quality basic education to all learners.”

The MATATAG Agenda, which stands for MA—Make the curriculum relevant to produce job-ready, active, and responsible citizens; TA—Take steps to accelerate the delivery of basic education facilities and services; TA—Take good care of learners by promoting learner well-being, inclusive education, and a positive learning environment; and G—Give support to teachers to teach better, is DepEd’s strategic framework for improving the quality and accessibility of education in the Philippines.

The award was presented by Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Z. Duterte during the national DepEd Partners’ Appreciation and Recognition ceremony held at the GSIS Theater in Pasay City. I am MAD was among the 173 partner organizations that were honored by DepEd for their support and intervention in the country’s basic education.

“This recognition from DepEd is a testament to our never-ending passion to make a difference in the lives of our learners,” Ravanzo said. He also shared how the organization faced challenges in the past, such as gaining trust and credibility from the communities and stakeholders, and how it overcame them through perseverance and dedication.

He also expressed his gratitude to the volunteers, donors, sponsors, and partners who have supported I am MAD throughout the years. He said that without them, the organization would not have achieved its goals and milestones.

If you are interested in joining I am MAD and becoming part of its mission, you can register at bit.ly/MADcamp2024reg. You can also donate to the organization through bit.ly/bidadonate. Your help will go a long way in making a difference in the lives of Filipino learners.

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