LUCENA CITY — Bringing together Rotaractors from across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao for a multi-sector outreach activity, the Rotaract Clubs of Lucena South, Metro Bacolod, and Carmen Valley conducted “Give a Hand Year 9” on October 11, 2025, at Lucena East VII Elementary School.
The annual initiative coincided with the 25th Charter Anniversary of the Rotaract Club of Lucena South (RACLS). Originally conceptualized as a LuzViMinda outreach project, the activity expanded into a three-part service program composed of Give a Hand, Project PinaSmile, and Proyektong ARAL, with support from visiting Rotaractors and partner organizations.
Under Give a Hand, and in partnership with PATH Therapy Center, 47 students with special needs underwent Speech and Occupational Therapy screenings. Therapists also conducted a learning session for parents and teachers, emphasizing the importance of therapy interventions and providing individualized home programs to support each child’s development.
Project PinaSmile served more than 156 students through a dental mission led by the Philippine Dental Association – Quezon Province Chapter, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Lucena South. Beneficiaries received dental check-ups, fluoride treatments, oral health education, and dental kits. Participating Rotaract clubs included Manila Metro, Cebu Fuente, and Dipolog.
Meanwhile, Proyektong ARAL focused on literacy development by donating 67 books to the school to enhance its reading resources. The book drive was supported by partner Rotaract clubs from Cebu Fuente, Zamboanga City West, Makati United, Carmona, Manila Metro, Midtown QC, Metro Iloilo, New Rise Kalookan North, Dipolog, and Muntinlupa Central.
Organizers said the activity reflected the LuzViMinda spirit of collaboration, uniting Rotaractors from different regions under one shared mission of service. The successful implementation of Give a Hand Year 9 highlighted the continued commitment of the Rotaract Club of Lucena South and its partner clubs to community development and youth empowerment.
