I'm Merian Vallestern, nearly 17 and a volunteer for 4 years of CJF USA and PH.



As a volunteer for the CJF USA, this charity does it's best in truly fulfilling the needs of its beneficiaries. My parents have been volunteering for quite some years now, but for me, I've only started to help in 2009. I can say that from offering a hand in their wide variety in programs for the Filipino children, they do put their hearts into making them smile. As an example: they have an annual program every April 25th called National Children's Day (NCD) where in all of their locations, they hold feeding programs and fun festivities for children and their families. Best thing: it's 100% free. (I helped in the celebration in Davao City, PH in 2012 and this year in Van Nuys, CA.) Both the full-time and part-time volunteers fundraise continuously in preparation for this giant project.



In response to the CJF USA being named as a 'scam,' in the 4 years of partnering up with them, they've done nothing bad. I mean, if you think about it, they are located globally. Most likely they are to make mistakes because of miscommunication, but maybe some abuse their roles because of corruption. In the end, the things they offer (not to mention the several orphanages with free schooling programs they run) require an extensive and handsome sum of money to keep running properly. But volunteering requires much stamina, and exercise. Not everyone can volunteer.



My 3 younger cousins who were left parentless because of a tragic accident last year are recipients of the CJF PH's care. I and my parents have visited them twice and they've even said the housing complex they stay at is comforting with all the children and nice [brothers and sisters] (kuyas and ates, as they put it) have helped them stand from the loss of their parents and have helped them gain talents. (All three of the brothers gave my family a little performance when we visited. TOO ADORABLE~)