Training the Trainers and Championing Volunteerism in Aklan

By Maria Solita Zaldivar-Guzman

KALIBO, Aklan- The Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) in partnership with the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) of Aklan recently conducted a three-day executive training course for Aklan Province’s Volunteerism Champions entitled “Creating a Culture of Volunteerism: A Trainer’s Training on Volunteer Management” aimed to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to promote volunteerism in their communities effectively. The seminar took place on October 23-25 at the Conference Room of the Provincial Governor’s Office, with representatives from various sectors, including local government units, non-government organizations, educational institutions, and private sector partners, in attendance.

The seminar focused on building the capacity of trainers who will play a pivotal role in advocating for volunteer service and organizing and mobilizing volunteers for community-based projects. The training covered key topics such as RA 9418 or the Volunteer Act of 2007, principles and values of volunteerism, program development, volunteer management, and integration of volunteer activities into community development and action plans.

Participants engaged in different interactive activities to strengthen their skills in conducting volunteer training workshops. The seminar incorporated lectures, group discussions and presentations, module workshops, and action plan creation to ensure that trainers could translate theoretical concepts into practical applications.

One of the highlights of the seminar was the workshop on the Volunteer Management Cycle which provided a comprehensive step-by-step process on the strategy and partnership development, activity planning and volunteer recruitment, mobilization, support, and monitoring. Another important session was preparing an Ordinance and Code on Volunteerism, including volunteerism incentives and recognition programs and establishing a volunteerism hub in Aklan.

PNVSCA emphasized the importance of upholding the culture of bayanihan, promoting social interconnection, and addressing various community needs. The seminar encouraged participants to develop viable volunteer programs that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting the role of volunteerism in achieving social progress and environmental sustainability.

The executive training course marks a significant step in PNVSCA’s continuing efforts to expand the network of volunteer trainers across the country, strengthening the national volunteer infrastructure, and ensuring that volunteer activities contribute meaningfully to community development. It was well-received, with participants expressing passion and confidence in applying their new knowledge and skills to mobilize and engage volunteers in Aklan.