March 2009
Following the lead of my parents and brothers, I came to Kansas City in July 1977 to start a new life. My transition to the States, as shocking as it was, was eased by the friendliness and helpfulness of Association members who had already settled in Kansas City. I have come to love the place and the Filipino community – so much that I have never thought of relocating to a warmer (more Philippines-like) climate. I have raised my family here.
2009 marks the Association's 41st year of existence. It has grown and matured from its early beginnings, but still helps newcomers, as I once was, assimilate into the community. We have our own Cultural Center, the envy of other ethnic organizations. We have several major annual events – Fiesta Filipina, September Affair, and the Ethnic Enrichment Festival. Our dancers, the Sinag-Tala Performing Arts Troupe, have put on major concerts and have been featured in newspapers and magazines. Our Sampaguita Choir performs locally and as far away as St. Louis.
In the coming year, we plan groundbreaking for the expansion of the Cultural Center. We plan to start a Tagalog class – not just for the Filipino community, but also for some outsiders who have expressed keen interest. And we plan to increase our community outreach, in cooperation with the Philippine Nurses Association, Philippine Medical Society, and the Kansas City World Outreach Lions Club.
There is no denying the immense success of the Association. To sustain this level of performance, it takes leadership, planning, funds, and plenty of volunteers.
I call upon the Filipino community and its friends to keep this worthwhile organization alive and relevant. We need more leaders to head committees and projects – this is an excellent training opportunity for our younger members. We need members to volunteer their time and skills. Join us at the Kansas Speedway concessions. It's a lot of work, but it is fun and you get to watch for free! Join us for the Fiesta Filipina or Ethnic Enrichment Festival to prepare food or set up booths and tents. Join us in a Good Samaritan project. Join us to mentor our youth. Our Filipino Association is worth sustaining. Join us and you'll see what I mean.
