A repost from April 19, 2009.

The fourth of April had never been the same for the elderly, volunteers and sherpas of the Better Days – MMFCI project as they took part on the first-ever Better Days – Grey & Free joint activity held at Kanlungan ni Maria Home for the Aged followed by a field trip to the MMLDC Aviary.

It was a fun morning at Kanlungan ni Maria as the elders of the said projects gamely participated to the different activities prepared by the volunteers and sherpas for them. Both groups found a common ground in feats such as Bingo and the well-known Wowowee game “Hep hep hooray”. Aside from the said contests, the joint activity also showcased the talents of the participants, wherein the Better Days elders presented their latest dance steps while some of the Grey and Free elders poured their hearts out in their poem and song renditions. The program ended with a heartwarming moment where the Better Days elders shared their tokens of gratitude to the KNM residents.

The fun continued later in the afternoon as the Better Days-MMFCI elders were accompanied by the volunteers and sherpas to a surprise field trip in the MMLDC Aviary. Volunteers and elders alike were able to witness the Aviary’s “star” birds perform their acts on the MMLDC Bird Show as well as enjoy their photo ops with them. It was then followed by a Bantay Kalikasan tour wherein the participants saw the other bird species while marveling at the scenic MMLDC grounds. The tour capped off with a sumptous snack and giving of token bags to the elders.

What started as a desire of the Better Days-MMFCI elders to learn more about their counterparts at Kanlungan ni Maria has stemmed to a memorable event for all those who helped and participated in this joint project. It just shows that despite aging, an unwavering interest and curiosity can lead to different wonderful places and experiences.

(Images courtesy of Tintin Clemente. You may click here for more photos.)