Leo Club: Spreading Joy at Praise Emmanuel Children's Home
The Ones Who Roar
BAC's Leo Club is at the forefront of giving back to the community. Leos are always bravely stepping in and giving a hand to those in need. Leos always encourage youths to not only participate in social service but to also equip and develop their leadership skills.
It is a commitment and one that the Leos voluntarily take on. A commitment that is aimed at tackling the needs of the local community, promoting social responsibility, and positively impacting the world they touch.
This is the core of what makes the Leos the lions of BAC, instilling social responsibility for all involved while also strengthening the communal bonds that are established through their tangible works. Positivity, compassion, and support are key tenants that the Leos religiously stick to and one that has undoubtedly impacted so many communities and organisations, among which include Praise Emmanuel Children's Home (PECH).
An Unending Mission
PECH was founded in 2004, and aims to provide a homely environment for underprivileged children, offering balanced diets, clothing, medical check-ups, education, and spiritual guidance to build their character for good citizenship.
Sticking close to their mission goals, the Leos took this opportunity to offer emotional support and add some much-needed positivity to children who have lost or have not known the environment of a stable family.
On 3rd February 2024, the Leos began their heartwarming journey to PECH, nestled in the serene neighbourhood of Petaling Jaya, Selangor. This visit, more than just an event, was a bridge of compassion and camaraderie, connecting the hearts of the young members with the spirited children residing at the home.
Their objective was clear: to shower the children with emotional support and create an environment ripe for positive interactions. The day was meticulously planned to ensure that every moment spent would contribute towards enriching the children's lives with joy and a sense of belonging.
This was not done by merely providing material aid but also emotional support to provide an environment where the children could thrive and realise their potential. To equip the Leos on their task, a very generous amount of toys and food was donated by Muhibah.
Diligently and meticulously chosen, the food that was donated was to directly contribute to a key necessity of existence—a crucial aspect of nutrition and growth that these children needed. Not only that, but the generous donation of toys were to give these children a creative outlet for imagination and problem-solving skills while adding a much-needed element of joy into their lives.
Lions at Work
Upon arrival, the atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation and excitement. The Leos kicked the day off with an ice-breaking session, where members and children engaged in a game that involved passing words in a circle, a simple yet effective way to foster initial connections. The laughter and eager participation from the children set a jubilant tone for the day, breaking down barriers and warming up hearts. Achieving exactly what the Leos intended from the start.
Starting off with a loud roar, the Leos beautifully blended the creative and cultural exchange between one another by embarking on a little craft activity by creating a cherry blossom blow art piece. While being a fun little artistic endeavour for the children, the activity was also to introduce the children to the cultural significance of the cherry blossom in Chinese tradition.
As explained by the Leo Club members, the cherry blossom symbolises good fortune and is a herald of the New Year. This thoughtful integration of cultural wisdom served as a vibrant educational moment, enriching the children’s understanding and appreciation of diverse traditions.
While showcasing the children a thing or two about Chinese culture, the children had their own opportunity to fill the air with music as they showcased their musical talents on the guitar and piano, enveloping the room in a cosy and harmonious ambiance that brought everyone much closer together through the shared language of music.
Undoubtedly one of the highlights of the day, the DIY Bear Bricks session was a collaborative effort that symbolised the building of friendships and memories. Through this creative endeavour, the Leo Club members and children worked side by side, each brick representing a cornerstone of their newly formed bonds, further solidifying the connection between all parties involved.
Leaving a Lasting Impact
As the day drew to a close, the Leo Club members presented the children with thoughtful gifts, including calligraphy pieces, instant noodles, and mandarin oranges, ensuring the spirit of Chinese New Year was felt warmly within the home. These gifts, though simple, were packed with love and well wishes, symbolising the club’s hope for the children’s happiness and prosperity.
The Leos, who have been actively hard at work to raise awareness about the needs of orphanages, kept their spirits going by touching young lives, like the ones at PECH. Utilising all the tools at their disposal, such as the Leo Club social media pages, these initiatives encourage others to contribute, while fostering a sense of responsibility and compassion towards improving the lives of children in need.
It was a day filled with laughter, learning, and heartfelt connections, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of both Leo members and the children. The memories created on this special day are a testament to the joy and unity that can be fostered through compassionate outreach, proving that even the smallest acts of kindness can illuminate the darkest corners of our world. As said by a Leo:
"This world will not be a good place for any of us to live in, unless we make it a good place for all of us to live in."
To be a part of outreach programmes such as this, come join the Leo Club! Clink the button below and be a part of a club that changes lives.