Steve, a 21-year-old student, is the epitome of resilience and gratitude. His journey was fueled by his desire for education, which was provided to him by the ERDA Foundation. Early on in his life, he faced challenges as he grew up with a broken family. It led them to struggle financially, and Steve decided to continue studying in fifth grade, where his brother’s education was put to a halt. The ERDA foundation offered an educational sponsorship to Steve that would last through his college years. Throughout the guidance of ERDA, he built meaningful relationships with the social workers, specifically Sir Arnold, and learned leadership skills as he was immersed in various ERDA activities.

His commitment to his studies is always dedicated to his grandmother, who took the responsibility as his primary caregiver since birth. Despite being challenged throughout the pandemic, he still found motivation through the support of ERDA, which provided him with a pocket Wi-Fi and tablet to alleviate his situation from merely using a cellphone to attend his online classes. Now, he is pursuing a degree in BS Administration majoring in Computer Applications at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, with the same drive and gratitude that ERDA taught him. With one act of kindness by ERDA, it has created a lasting impact on shaping the lives of people like Steve, who once had a simple dream of finishing his studies. With the given opportunity by ERDA, he is more motivated to graduate and give back to the community and ERDA for the constant support he has been receiving throughout the years.

Learn more about how you can create a lasting impact by helping grant Filipino children access to quality education and sharing hope for a brighter future here.

By the Ateneo Bigkis – BS Communications Technology Management Students