Architects Spread Holiday Cheer with “Adopt a Kid 2.0” in Pasig City

The UAP Pasig Chapter brought smiles to the faces of children with disabilities in Pasig City with their “Adopt a Kid 2.0” gift-giving initiative held on December 29, 2024, at the ROTC Hunters Building in Barangay Rosario.

Inspired by the theme “Sinag ng Bahaghari,” which promotes hope, nation-building, and inclusivity through architecture, the project aimed to uplift and support children with disabilities. Led by PAF NAM Co-Chair Ar. Mary Rolyn Ara Torrecampo-Angeles and UAP Pasig Chapter President Ar. Mark Niño Villaruz, the initiative saw UAP Pasig members raise funds to provide 145 gifts worth 500 pesos each to children from the AKKAPP PWD Federation and Bagong Alyansa ng mga may Kapansanan ng Lungsod ng Pasig Fed Inc.

The spirit of giving extended beyond the UAP Pasig Chapter, with significant contributions from other UAP chapters and industry partners:* UAP Greenhills Chapter: Donated 200 food packages.

 * UAP Manila-Maharlika Chapter: Provided 100 food items. 

* UAP San Juan Pinaglabanan: Contributed 50 food items and five gifts worth 500 pesos each. 

* Davies Paints: Generously donated 50 loot bags and food for 100 companions.

The event was a collaborative effort, with participation from the Commission on Government and External Affairs under Executive Director Ar. Mary Kristine Segovia, and support from UAP Greenhills Chapter (led by Ar. Catherine Tuaño), UAP Manila-Maharlika Chapter (represented by Ar. Mon Jekris Servino and Ar. Nerissa Acelar-Woo), and UAP San Juan Pinaglabanan (led by Ar. Melvin Zabat).

“Adopt a Kid 2.0” went beyond simply distributing gifts; it aimed to foster a deeper connection between architects and the disability community. By immersing themselves in the community, architects gain a better understanding of the needs of individuals with disabilities, which can inform more inclusive and accessible design practices.

This heartwarming initiative serves as an inspiration for architects across the country to use their skills and resources to support and empower those with disabilities. The collaborative spirit and generosity demonstrated by the UAP chapters and industry partners highlight the positive impact that can be achieved when communities come together to build a more inclusive and compassionate society.