When we think of humanism, and the many different ways to embody it, there is no such thing as ‘too big’ or ‘too small’. We find the heart of humanism beats on, even in something as surprising as trading Pokémon cards.
HAPI-Alabang youth volunteer Krisha Del Rosario spearheaded a project of her own recently to benefit the children in her neighbourhood. Although many initially take a look at this project and chalk it up to ‘kids being kids’, a recent conversation with Krisha shed more light on the goals of her project.
- Why did you decide to start this project and who are the target beneficiaries?
- Krisha: I started this project to help children who have the same hobby as I do. I used to love collecting Pokémon items, but I focused on the cards because these were the rarest items and most difficult to get my hands on. I noticed that children in my area were also interested in collecting and trading these cards, but much like me when I was growing up, they could not afford the cards. I decided to start my project to benefit them so they do not have to give up on their hobby. I did not want them to experience what I did growing up. I see their struggles, but I also see the joy their hobby brings them.
- What are some of the difficulties you have encountered and how do you sustain the project?
- Krisha: I almost gave up on this project because I was not sure if I could succeed. However, after thinking about it a little longer, I decided there was no harm in trying. I started my own Facebook page and YouTube channel to show what the project is about and to show the people what it is I aim to accomplish. I have received donations in the form of cards and financial help to buy card packs which then go to the children. Not many people support this idea since they consider the cards to be toys and non-essential items. It is not easy explaining to people how the cards actually help the children by boosting their confidence, improving their communication skills and ability to share with others. Unfortunately, now that school has started, the children and I are focused on our classes. Education is always the first priority. When there is more time, I can focus on looking for sponsors for cards or obtain cards from those who want to give their own pre-loved card collections to the kids.
- How can this project create a better sense of community for the children who participate?
- Krisha: I believe that this project can help the children to be open-minded and to pursue their hobbies. It also teaches them that even if you fail a few times, you should not give up on what you love to do. This can also motivate them to work hard in order to continue whatever hobbies they wish to pursue because this project won’t always be there to provide what they want. They must eventually work for their own cards and earn them. I also want them to learn that if we help one another, they must give back to the community that also helped them at one point. They can pay it forward in the future and help other children who may feel discouraged or feel like they can’t do things they enjoy. Small actions create a big difference.
- Will there be tournaments or trade fairs in the future?
- Krisha: This would be great, but maybe not right now. I am barely getting started and have a long way to go. Hopefully, this can become a reality in the future.
Krisha’s initiative is quite commendable, especially when you consider that she pursued this all on her own. We, as humanists, sometimes forget that there are so many different ways to get our message across. What looks like child’s play on the surface actually reflects the conditions of how many children feel in Purok 7C in Muntinlupa City. Finding a group that understands the struggles you experience at a young age can provide a safe place to overcome those frustrations. The cards are merely a way to kick start the communication and give them something to share in common, eventually leading to more.
