It’s a saying that among those who brave the alluring lights of Sin City that “what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.” In unsung solidarity, this continues to draw the masses to Las Vegas’ ‘round the clock celebration.
But on July 28th, 2006 what happens in Vegas will not stay in Vegas. Over 300 heroes from across the United States and abroad will gather from 9am to 5pm at the South Coast Hotel in Las Vegas for a different celebration – ANCOP GK USA’s first-ever Gawad Kalinga Bayani, or “Heroes,” Summit.
“To give care” – both the translation and the goal of “Gawad Kalinga” - is an alternative solution to the debilitating degradation of the Filipino by poverty in the Philippines and around the world. With a holistic and sustainable approach, GK seeks to effect massive change and promote a global attitude of “less more self, more for others, enough for all.”
What began as a dream some five years ago has grown to the proportions of a worldwide movement. In 2003, GK launched the challenge called “GK777” – a goal of building 700,000 homes in 7,000 communities in 7 years. In May 2006, over 17,000 homes have been built in 731 communities worldwide.
The first GK Bayani Summit is a celebration of the work accomplished thus far, and an inspirational charge to rise to the continuing challenge. GK volunteers and partners nationwide will assemble with resident Filipino and expat government officials for an update on the progress of Gawad Kalinga and how it plans to take its work to the finish line.
Featured speakers will include: Mayor Abubakar Totoy Paglas of Datu Paglas, Maguindanao; ANCOP GK USA President Rose Cabrera; GK International Partnerships Director Dylan Wilk; ANCOP GK USA Vice-President and Cyclades Corporation Chief Operating Officer Joe Millares; Governor Jose Ma. Zubiri of Bukidnon; Gawad Kalinga Chairman and Couples for Christ Director Frank Padilla; Gawad Kalinga Executive Director Tony Meloto; and former Agriculture Secretary and Land Bank president Luis “Cito” Lorenzo.
Volunteer performers Stephanie Reese and Jun Polistico are expected to touch participants’ hearts in a celebration of achievement and heroism. Love for our fellowman brings its own light to Las Vegas. Be a part of it.
