A year after my mother’s death, angels came in the form of women who were doing a service project for foster youth. I asked about their organization, and somehow I could hear my mother tell me to join. I could also help Filipinos in Hawaii. I’ve been with the organization ten years.
The women helped me to rediscover my culture. I learned how to cook pancit and adobo a little bit better. I learned how to make a parol and sing Tagalog songs.My mother would have been happy that I connected with people that look like me and appreciate our culture.
This year the Filipino Women’s League elected me to the Vice Presidency position, and I am also the membership chair. I invite anyone to join. We have a diverse group of women that appreciate and celebrate the Filipino culture. You don’t have to be Filipino to join.
The League has cultural education through dance and song, we have service projects throughout the year, and we offer scholarships. We get together once a month and review upcoming events and projects. We also have camaraderie and connection.
The League has been around almost 50 years. I have learned so much about leadership, facilitation, and valuing members through this organization and many other organizations like FWL. When you join a service organization, you learn so much about people and yourself. I learned how to tie to my roots. How do you tie to yours?
Next blog: Almost half a century
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