in Partnership with DOH-Treatment Rehabilitation Center
Toby’s Youth Sports Foundation (TYSF) and Rotary Club of Greenhills (RCGH) held its annual “Sports for Hope” joint project at the Department of Health-Treatment Rehabilitation Center in Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, Taguig City last November 22, 2022. This advocacy, which has been on-going for more than two decades now, aims to assist the facility’s rehabilitation efforts through the promotion of sports as an avenue to improve the patients’ well-being as they try to return to society as fully rehabilitated and reformed individuals.
This year’s activity featured a volleyball and basketball sports clinic facilitated by TYSF and its student-athlete interns from the University of Santo Tomas. The patients composed of male/female young adults and indigent from the BBRC dorm gamely participated in the activity. The teaching of sports aims to develop among the youth the value of health, fitness and mental wellness, thus, having a sound mind in a sound body. Aside from being a key intervention in rehabilitation, sports can be a potent tool in drug prevention as it advocates work-life balance and discipline. In previous years, TYSF and RCGH also invited famous sports personalities to further inspire the patients in their journey to full recovery.
The activity continued with Ms. Avelonia Vea, Chief Administrative Officer of DOH-TRC delivering her welcome remarks on behalf of Dr. Alfonso Villaroman, Chief of Hospital. A special message was also given by Rotary Club of Greenhills President Ms. Carol Zaragoza, acknowledging the efforts of DOH-TRC and encouraging the patients to stay focused in their rehabilitation program.
Mr. Simon Ang, a prospective member of RCGH and the club’s leader in its bible study activity, gave an inspirational talk, emphasizing the importance of faith in overcoming one’s challenges in life. The program continued with an energetic dance number from a group of patients. Each one was given a gift in appreciation of their efforts which drew the loudest cheers from the very supportive crowd.
In closing, Toby’s Sports Chairman and RCGH Past President Mr. Jose S. Claudio, Jr., gave an endearing message to the patients emphasizing that their stay in the facility is only temporary as the main goal is to return to their respective families. He also assured the continued support of TYSF and RCGH in the nations drive against illegal drugs and rehabilitation efforts.
A ceremonial hand over of gifts and donations ensued, which included sports items, equipment, toiletries, slippers, shoes, groceries, musical instruments, educational materials, and more. To cap the event, special meals were individually distributed to the patients. Smiles and festive mood abound as they chat and bid goodbye to TYSF and RCGH members before returning to their dormitories.
The struggle against illegal drugs is indeed a long and arduous endeavor. The Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self” invites us to help and take more action. The government certainly cannot do it alone. Like in sports, teamwork is key. In line with government’s latest anti-narcotics campaign “Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan” (BIDA), There is a better alternative to violence by saving them early through prevention and intervention, one by getting them involved in sports instead. As the Toby’s Youth Sports Foundation mission say, “Let’s Help Kid’s Play”. And it starts with making them believe that people do care. Together, let’s give them the gift of hope this Christmas season.
