The day was kicked off by a rousing round of popular parlor games such as Calamansi Relay, Pinoy Henyo and many others. Teams were formed and were composed not only of the children but also of the UPPA members. Laughter and fun ensued as each team tried to outdo one another to win the prizes up for grabs. Soon enough, it was hard to distinguish the children from HORFI and the members of UPPA!
Sean Fortuna demonstrates the characteristics of a non-Newtonian fluid.
Of course, it would not be a UPPA event without a couple of engaging activities on science. After everyone had their fill of food prepared (lovingly) by the members, the children were introduced to several scientific demos involving non-Newtonian fluids, wire loop game and many others. Everyone was so excited that the venue ended up a hot mess of materials used in the demo! It was also hard to keep the children off the game booth since they were all so eager to try the game and learn how it works!
HORFI has cared for over a thousand children since its inception in 1986.
Carlo Lima cheerfully plays with a child from HORFI.
After most of the excitement from the experiments died down, the children had their fair share of talents to present to UPPA. In line with the House of Refuge's goal of Christian development, the children delivered a touching performance by acting out a Christian song. Several other performances followed ranging from hip hop dance, ballet, Wu Shu and a lot more happily performed numbers. It was great to see the children enjoying themselves when they saw the applause and cheer from the audience who were watching them perform.
At the end of the day, it became less about teaching the children about science and became more about really reaching out. In sharing our time and experience with them, we hope that we were able to motivate the young minds of these children as well as to make them feel more confident after going through difficult trials in their lives.
Jona Ann Vistal and Carlo Lima enjoy a meal together with the children from HORFI.
UPPA would like to recognize the benefactor of the event — Jona Ann Vistal. Jona is a UPPA member who chose to celebrate her birthday with the children at HORFI and she provided the majority of the event's needs. Thank you very much for making this event possible and a very happy birthday to you!
UPPA thanks HORFI for the fun and fulfilling learning experience!
To everyone at HORFI: we hope to see all of you again soon!