Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (CICM) Schools marked a historic milestone as they convened for the CICM Schools Kick-Off: International Volunteer Year (IVY) 2026 Online Summit on 28 April 2026. Hosted by Saint Louis University (SLU) through the University Outreach Programs Office (UOPO), this landmark event is the first time CICM institutions gathered in a unified platform to promote volunteerism both locally and globally, reinforcing their shared mission of service, solidarity, and transformative education.
The summit brought together administrators, faculty, students, and partner agencies to exchange best practices, address common challenges, and strengthen collaboration in advancing volunteerism as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development.
The program commenced with an opening prayer and the Philippine National Anthem, followed by welcome remarks from Mr. Donald James D. Gawe, CESO III, Executive Director of the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA). The keynote address delivered by Kristine Nabor-Ferrer, EdD of the Commission on Higher Education – International Affairs Service (CHED-IAS) underscored the growing importance of international volunteerism in addressing global development goals and fostering cross-cultural solidarity.
A central feature of the summit was the presentation of volunteerism initiatives from participating CICM institutions, each reflecting unique contexts yet united by a common spirit of mission:
Saint Mary’s University (Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya) highlighted its research-driven approach to volunteerism through the published study, “Who Volunteers for What? Demystifying the Particularities of Volunteerism in the Pursuit of Economic Development.” The study provides critical insights into volunteer motivations and engagement patterns, emphasizing how strategic and context-sensitive volunteerism can directly contribute to local economic development.
Saint Louis College (Cebu) emphasized its structured and reflective approach through its presentation on “Procedures in Organizing Community Service Activities and the Challenges Met in Organizing and Implementing Services for the Community.” The institution underscored the importance of clear planning processes, stakeholder coordination, and adaptability in addressing on-the-ground realities, demonstrating how systems and reflection strengthen volunteer impact.
Saint Louis College (San Fernando, La Union) showcased its integrated approach through its National Service Training Program (NSTP) Community Engagement Initiatives and the SMART Bank: Saving Mindfully, Achieving Real Targets program. These initiatives highlight the intersection of financial literacy, values formation, and community engagement, empowering students and communities toward responsible and sustainable practices.
University of Saint Louis (Tuguegarao) highlighted its mission-driven outreach programs anchored in social responsibility, including health services, educational support, and engagement with marginalized sectors.
Saint Louis University (Baguio City) featured its presentation, “From Activity to Impact: The Binnadang Hub in Action,” highlighting its flagship community engagement framework, Binnadang, which promotes collective action and solidarity. The presentation emphasized SLU’s shift from activity-based volunteerism to impact-driven engagement, ensuring that initiatives are sustainable and community-centered. Through this framework, SLU integrates volunteerism into instruction and formation, with initiatives such as hydroponics systems, compost-based solid waste management, tree growing and sustainable livelihood programs through Project GAWIS, solar-powered lighting, and partnerships that empower farmers and women’s groups.
The institutional presentations demonstrated that while contexts may differ, CICM Schools share a deep commitment to forming individuals who are not only academically competent but also socially responsive and mission-oriented.
The open forum further enriched the dialogue, surfacing shared challenges such as sustainability, resource mobilization, and meaningful community engagement, while also opening pathways for stronger inter-institutional collaboration.
The summit concluded with a powerful and reflective message from Rev. Fr. Emery Mwako Ebumea, CICM, SLU Vice President for Mission and Identity, who challenged participants to move beyond passive participation:
“Before anything else, allow me to ask you a question: When was the last time you chose to serve (truly serve) not because it was required, not because it was convenient, but because you recognized Christ in someone who needed you? We have listened to inspiring stories this morning. We have seen programs, numbers, and initiatives. But beyond all these, the real question is this: have these encounters changed us?”
Fr. Mwako underscored the historic significance of the gathering as a first for CICM Schools, describing it as “not just another event, but a milestone” -a sign of unity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to elevate volunteerism both locally and internationally.
Most importantly, he honored all volunteers “known and unknown, seen and unseen” whose quiet and faithful service continues to transform lives.
Fr. Mwako concluded with a compelling challenge: “The world does not need more spectators, it needs witnesses.” He called on everyone to choose mission over comfort, action over passivity, and service that goes beyond convenience.
“Volunteerism,” he emphasized, “is love in action. And love, if it is real, always demands more.”
As the summit came to a close, participants were reminded that this gathering is not an endpoint but a beginning—a renewed call to deepen engagement, strengthen partnerships, and continue the mission of service with compassion and commitment.
The summit is aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and 17 (Partnership for the Goals). (Article and Photos by SLU UOPO)
