RC Cebu Gloria Maris Celebrates Elders with Compassion in “A Day of Tender Care”

“Compassion is the heartbeat of service.”

Under the warm August sun, the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris transformed the quiet halls of Gasa sa Gugma, a home for the dying destitute in Mabolo, Cebu City, into a sanctuary pulsing with laughter and music. On August 30th, a remarkable fellowship and service activity unfolded, led by a devoted team including President Roxene Rosario, Secretary Dorothy Borces, Director Bernadette Ponce, Assistant Governor Christine Ashby, Immediate Past President Myra Urbiztondo, Past Presidents Bessie Villamor and Gay Marie Tiu, Assistant Secretary Jabemarie Maquiling and Rotarian Alden Urbiztondo.

What started as a gentle, uplifting Zumba Gold session, gracefully led by Zin Keith, set the tone for the day—an inspiring blend of movement, energy, and heartfelt dedication. The elders, many frail and vulnerable, were imbued with renewed spirit as the rhythmic beats coaxed smiles and light steps. This joyful prelude naturally flowed into a lively karaoke session where voices, young and seasoned, mingled in harmonious celebration.

The clubhouse volunteers seamlessly interwove moments of cheer with attentive care—offering gentle support to elders needing extra assistance and sharing stories that brought heartfelt laughter and tears alike. Small acts of kindness, from holding hands to encouraging words, painted a moving picture of sincere human connection.

“In every note sung and every meal shared, we found the true meaning of fellowship—uniting to uplift the lives of our elders.” The feeding time that followed was more than nourishment for the body; it was an act of love, dignity, and respect for those often forgotten by society. Plates were filled with warm, hearty meals, and the simple joy of breaking bread together transformed the room into a space of belonging and community.

Volunteers and elders alike exchanged smiles and gratitude, creating bonds that transcended generations. The day embodied Rotary’s mission: serving humanity by answering the call to care for the most vulnerable. Stories were shared, hands held tight, and moments of quiet reflection interspersed the lively activities, reminding everyone there that dignity and compassion are at the core of true service.

Why This Project Resonates with Cebu Gloria Maris

For the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris, service goes beyond grand infrastructure or sweeping campaigns—it lies in the tender moments where dignity and kindness meet. This project embodies their belief that “service is humanity in action,” demonstrated through tangible care for the city’s most vulnerable elders. The involvement of club leaders, past and present, signals a united heart and enduring commitment.

Director Bernadette Ponce observed, “These moments of joy, no matter how simple, reaffirm our purpose: to serve with compassion and to honor our elders with love.” This hands-on engagement reflects the club’s deep respect for the wisdom and stories carried by elderly members of the community.

The event also served as a powerful reminder that fellowship, paired with service, strengthens Rotary’s impact. As members danced, sang, and shared meals side by side, their bonds as a club deepened, fueling collective passion to continue uplifting lives in Cebu.

Imagine the warm smiles of elders swaying gently to the rhythm of Zumba Gold, their spirits lifted by the energy around them. Picture their faces lighting up during karaoke, some shyly stepping forward to sing, encouraged by applause and cheers. Envision volunteers serving meals with care, sharing stories, and exchanging supportive gestures with those gathered.

Capturing these moments on camera would reveal the very heart of Rotary—human connection, respect, and joyful service.

As the sun set over Cebu City, the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris members left Gasa sa Gugma with more than fulfilled objectives. “True service shines brightest in moments of shared joy and compassion.” This day of tender care underscored their ongoing dedication to uplifting lives—one dance, one song, and one meal at a time.

The lasting impression is clear: service is not just an act, but a way of life—woven through every smile, every hand held, and every story shared.