For over a decade, the University of the Cordilleras (UC) has been spearheading Project HELEN, a comprehensive initiative that has left an indelible mark on the community. From 2007 to 2022, Project HELEN has made significant contributions to healthcare, education, livelihood, environmental sustainability, and community support. This report highlights the key achievements in each of these areas, showcasing UC’s dedication to the betterment of the region.
In a commendable effort to enhance community well-being, the University of the Cordilleras (UC) has embarked on a journey of health-related projects through its Health component. With a total of 114 projects under its belt, this initiative is leaving a significant impact in the region. One standout achievement is UC’s donation of medical paraphernalia valued at 12.4 million pesos to hospitals and patients to ensure that patients receive the necessary medical support, furthering UC’s commitment to community health. UC’s impact extends to over 4,700 individuals who have benefited from the distribution of hygiene kits. Additionally, UC has shown its dedication by providing 1,800 beneficiaries with assorted personal products, including clothing such as shirts, ladies’ shoes, daily-use shoes, children’s toys, leg gaiters, and manicure slippers. This gesture not only enhances the quality of life for these individuals but also demonstrates UC’s commitment to holistic well-being.
Another pivotal component is the Education sector, which has initiated and successfully executed 200 projects aimed at empowering individuals, particularly the beneficiaries, through the enhancement of self-esteem, literacy, and cultural awareness. UC’s commitment to education is exemplified by the donation of 599,108 books to 1,203 grade schools and high schools.
Under the umbrella of Project HELEN, the Education component further champions the Adopt-A-Scholar program. This initiative has supported 200 scholars, paving the way for a brighter future for these individuals, offering them access to quality education and a brighter future.
In the pursuit of community empowerment and sustainable development, the University of the Cordilleras (UC) has undertaken a transformative journey through its Livelihood component. Comprising a remarkable 195 projects, this initiative is instrumental in promoting entrepreneurship and technical assistance within local communities.
UC initiated projects that led to the training of 6,120 individuals as skilled workers.
A total of 1,050 beneficiaries were provided with assorted livelihood products.
Notably, two community-based start-up enterprises were established in Tublay, contributing to economic growth in the area.
Project H.E.L.E.N. at the University of the Cordilleras has set its sights on empowering the Municipality of Tublay, one of its cherished adopted communities. This is achieved through the groundbreaking Agri-Ecotourism Project, an initiative that underscores the importance of environmental consciousness, community participation, and the path to a self-sustaining, progressive economy, and a secure environment anchored firmly in the principles of sustainable development.
Project H.E.L.E.N.’s Environment component, featuring an impressive 180 projects, signifies the university’s commitment to nurturing the environment while fostering progress within the community. The Agri-Ecotourism Project is a testament to UC’s dedication to sustainable development and the harmonious coexistence of nature and society.The Agri-Ecotourism Project represents a pioneering approach to community development. By intertwining agriculture and ecotourism, the project is a realization of the belief that a flourishing economy can coexist with environmental conservation. One of the outstanding aspects of the Agri-Ecotourism Project is the active involvement of the local community. Residents of Tublay play an integral role in shaping the project, from its inception to its execution. Furthermore, UC’s dedication to environmental sustainability was recognized when it was awarded the Nestlé National Champion title in the Tertiary Level category for being an “Eco-Friendly School.” The university was cited for its active participation in the Bued & Balili River System Revitalization Project and its Waste Water Sanitation Treatment Project in 2015. To go beyond traditional community development , Project H.E.L.E.N. encompasses a Nurturance component. With a remarkable 210 projects to its name, this component is designed to empower target beneficiaries, enabling them to become self-reliant and fostering a sense of community support. The university reached out to 425 families in 17 barangays across Baguio City, La Trinidad, Itogon, Sablan, Tuba, and Tublay through its mobile community pantry, ensuring that those in need had access to essential supplies. Meanwhile, UC provided substantial support during the pandemic, distributing 7,371 food relief packs valued at 1.55 million pesos. The university also extended its assistance to six community pantries in Baguio and Benguet, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to community welfare. The University of the Cordilleras’ Project HELEN stands as a testament to the institution’s dedication to making a positive impact on the community. From healthcare assistance to education, livelihood, environmental sustainability, and community support, UC has consistently demonstrated its commitment to improving the lives of those it serves.
