When artist Kunaya Lopez messaged me one afternoon asking if I wanted to volunteer for an outreach program, I didn’t expect to say yes so quickly. But something in me knew—if I can help, I will. So off I went, tagging along my husband Joel for extra courage.
Before anything else, let me introduce LINKS (Loving Involvement for Neighborhood and Kids’ Success)—a community-driven organization dedicated to creating safe, creative, and supportive spaces for children. They run programs that nurture literacy, arts, confidence, and community involvement. Their latest project: Hooked on Books Library at Quezon Hill Elementary School.
DAY 1: Stepping Into Something New
I was assigned to assist Guillienne in the theater workshop. Theater! Something I’ve never done professionally—though as a BA Comm graduate, I suppose I couldn’t dodge it forever. With zero theater background, I found myself helping students explore acting, creative movement, speaking up, and letting their imaginations lead. Watching them express themselves was a reminder that creativity truly has no boundaries.
AN UNEXPECTED TWIST
The day before the event, unforeseen changes happened—and suddenly I was asked to lead the art workshop. Acrylic painting. A medium I first learned in my childhood summer art classes, but haven’t touched in a while. I was hesitant, but I also knew one thing: this is for the kids.
With gentle encouragement, plus backup from Joel and my cousin Ida, I said yes. When I walked into the classroom, the LINKS team had already prepared everything—easels, canvases, materials neatly arranged. My nerves kicked in, but with guidance from Kunaya, I decided on a fun and quirky project: ice cream on top of books. A little odd, but the kids loved it.
We reviewed color theory, talked about making “yummy” colors, adding texture, depth, and shadows. And honestly? They didn’t need much guidance—their creativity took over. It was heartwarming to watch them dive into the process.
FINDING COMFORT IN SMALL TASKS
During breaks and after generous meals (thank you, LINKS!!!), I also helped paint the exterior of the library—geometric shapes and simple fill-ins. Less pressure, but still satisfying. The professional muralists took care of the big magic; I was happy to add my own little brushstrokes.
DAY 2: JUST KEEP PAINTING
I arrived late (again, snacks were ready—LOL), and instead of standing around, I asked what I could help with. I’m no muralist, but painting backgrounds and little daisies with my friend Carol felt grounding. I wanted to stay longer, but duty called—I had to return to my work commitments.
THE LAUNCH DAY
When we returned for the launch, the mural blew me away. The community, the students, the volunteers—everyone contributed to something beautiful. The book selections, the colors, the messages—it was more than decor. It was a symbol of hope and creativity stitched into the walls of the school.
A SMALL WORLD OF CONNECTIONS
What surprised me the most was how small and intertwined our art community really is. I knew Kunaya only as an acquaintance, yet she trusted and welcomed us. I saw familiar faces like Ate Sheela and George. I even worked alongside one of my former SLU students—someone I taught in Reading Visual Arts back when she was still in engineering. She has since shifted to Social Work and brought classmates to volunteer too. Full circle moments like this make you pause and smile.
THE HEART OF LINKS
The warmth of the LINKS team was undeniable—from their president, Ma’am Ningning, to the dedicated members I met like Nedd, Gie, and Guillienne. Their passion for child-centered community work is inspiring. Their generosity, kindness, and tireless effort shaped the entire experience.
A BEAUTIFUL PROJECT, A BEAUTIFUL LESSON
In less than three days, the library of Quezon Hill Elementary transformed into a vibrant, welcoming, and inspiring space for young readers.
And through it all, one truth resonated with me:
No effort is ever too small. Each one creates a ripple — and together, our collective steps grow into meaningful change.