The University of the Cordilleras (UC) has demonstrated its commitment to fostering collaboration and partnerships for sustainable development through its Project H.E.L.E.N. This initiative has not only brought education and wellness but has also been a catalyst for positive change in the wider community, including local residents. Over the years, Project H.E.L.E.N. has successfully implemented activities focused on health, education, livelihood, and environmental sustainability, as well as nurturance.
Health is a fundamental aspect of well-being, and Project H.E.L.E.N. has made significant strides in this area. The program played a crucial role in providing accessibility to the COVID-19 vaccine, with 100% of non-teaching personnel and 98% of teaching personnel reporting that the vaccines were made accessible through the program. This underscores the importance of community health, especially in the face of a global pandemic.
Furthermore, the program’s health and wellness campaigns have produced tangible results. Notable changes such as weight loss, improved body mass index, and the adoption of healthier habits have been observed among program participants. These outcomes are not only vital for individual well-being but also contribute to building a healthier and more resilient community.
Education is a key driver of development, and Project H.E.L.E.N. has recognized its transformative potential. Through book donations, provision of essential school furniture, and laboratory equipment, the program has enriched the learning environment for schools in Baguio, La Trinidad, Sablan, Itogon, Tuba, Tublay, and nearby towns.
One of the program’s standout achievements has been its Adopt-A-Scholar Program. Since its inception in 2010, Project H.E.L.E.N. has supported 365 indigent scholars who have successfully completed their primary education. In the 2020-2021 academic year, 15 scholars continued their studies, while 14 graduated. This is a testament to the program’s commitment to nurturing young minds and providing them with the opportunity to break free from the cycle of poverty through education.
Project H.E.L.E.N.’s initiatives extend beyond education and health, addressing livelihood and environmental sustainability. The Agri-Ecotourism Project, involving over 1,000 local participants, has led to the development of various training courses and seminars. These courses, including organic farming and food preparation, have not only equipped locals with essential skills but also led to the establishment of businesses like Rainbow Cafรฉ and the Tourism-Based Center.
This project’s impact is not confined to skills development but also contributes to the economic development of the community. Tourist spots have seen a significant increase in visitors, generating substantial revenue for the region. Local farmers have found new markets, resulting in financial gains for farming associations. This combination of sustainable agriculture and tourism has established itself as a reliable source of income for the community.
In challenging times, the Project H.E.L.E.N. has extended its reach to provide support to vulnerable communities. Through its Mobile Community Pantry, the program successfully raised half a million pesos, benefiting 440 indigent families from 17 barangays in the region. These beneficiaries received food packs containing essential grocery items, hygiene kits, and highland vegetables.
Additionally, the program has partnered with Tublay’s Municipal Agriculture Office to purchase locally grown vegetables, thereby aiding local farmers and ensuring their financial stability. Among the recipients are the adopted scholars of Project H.E.L.E.N.’s Adopt-A-Scholar Program, illustrating the interconnectedness of the program’s initiatives.
Project H.E.L.E.N. stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and sustainable development. The University of the Cordilleras’ commitment to the wider community, local residents, and broader partnerships serves as a beacon of hope and an exemplar of responsible and sustainable community development.
