ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Apr 12 (PIA) – After completing a degree in computer science, Jenny Tan is equipped to work in the area of information technology where the pay and career growth are promising.
However, Tan went a different way; she decided to build her niche in community development far from operating systems of computers. She works for a foundation as a program coordinator.
"After graduation, I was discerning where my heart is, where I will be happy. I know community development is where I belong. I decided to apply as a program assistant at Dilaab Foundation,” Tan said in Cebuano. Dilaab Foundation is a volunteer-driven, Church-based movement for a transformed Filipino nation through heroic Christian citizenship.
Tan cited her passion in community building as the reason she has been involved in social development for the past three years already.
“My friends asked me why I am still at Dilaab Foundation. It is because I feel the sense of belongingness in a way that I belong to a community I am able to help. Each time I witness the impact of our projects, I feel a sense of fulfilment that I could not explain. This is the thing I would like to do for the rest of my life,” she said.
Mileesa Lumanog, recruitment in-charge of human resource team of Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), said that the interest and passion to serve are very important factors in working in community development.
Aside from skills and competencies, she pointed out that they would also consider the character and attitude of an applicant.
“If all he or she has are skills but the commitment is not there, he or she will not be able to last in the work that involves serving various communities,” she said.
Lumanog added that social development is also a good venue for personal and professional growth because of in-depth exposure in community work. (Haidee K. Palapar/RAFI/RVC/PIA-9 ZBST)
