I am MAD (Making A Difference) Volunteers, Inc. celebrated its 15th anniversary by returning to Baguio City, where founders Maco Ravanzo and Christian Marx Rivero first conceptualized the organization in 2009. The reunion launched the “I am Powered by Volunteer15m” campaign, celebrating the passion that drives their mission to help Filipino children and communities.
“What began as a simple dream has grown into a thriving community of changemakers,” Ravanzo shared. “Being back here with our volunteers is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come—and the greater impact we can still create together.”
The organization honored 15 volunteer leaders with the ‘Alab ng Puso’ Beacon of Volunteerism Award and recognized last year’s outreach team leaders. Recent milestones include onboarding 63 new volunteers and expanding school outreach programs in Rizal and Palawan.
I am MAD also celebrated its 100th MAD Camp in Barangay Puguil, Santol, La Union. This three-day outreach brought together 40 children and numerous volunteers for values formation activities at Liguay Elementary School. The event doubled as a training ground for ten aspiring volunteer leaders selected from over a hundred applicants, who received hands-on experience in program facilitation and community engagement.
The organization’s signature MAD Talks Padayon created spaces for reflection, emphasizing the message: “Do it because God allows you to do it.” La Union Governor Rafy Ortega-David pledged support to improve infrastructure in remote communities like Puguil.
Registration is now open for upcoming MAD Camps in eight provinces including Marinduque, Masbate, and various locations in Mindanao. Each camp is supported by BIDA Eskwela (Bigay Ayuda para sa Eskwela), a fundraiser providing every child with a “Bag of Dreams” containing school supplies and tokens of encouragement. Support the cause by donating at bit.ly/bidadonate.
To volunteer, donate, or explore partnerships, visit fb.com/IamMakingADifference or email iammadph@gmail.com.
