Kaiser Emergency Medicine’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee held a drive to collect educational toys and learning resources for children at orphanages in Tijuana, Mexico served by Unity 4 Orphans.
Kaiser Doctors Collect Educational Materials for Orphaned Children
Resident physician and president of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee Dr. Marlene Alfaro came up with an idea during the holiday season to organize her coworkers and give back to a cause. She had recently come across Unity 4 Orphans online and was intrigued by what our organization stands for and our mission.
Marlene enlisted the participation of fellow committee members and all of the emergency medicine residents and doctors combined forces to make posters and decorate collection boxes for each local hospital. They kept the drive top-of-mind by sending out email reminders and quickly gathered funds and donated gifts.
We were pleasantly surprised with the results. In the end, we collected $1,460, surpassing our goal. It was really amazing to see!
– Marlene, Resident Physician at Kaiser
Medical Professionals Team up to Support Kids Living in Poverty
As a team, the medical professionals at Kaiser San Diego enjoyed participating in the drive and are considering doing so as an annual event. Marlene attended her first service trip and saw in person the impact their efforts are making. She found the children at the orphanage to be welcoming and kind, and just thrilled to have people spend time with them.
It’s a privilege to affect positive change now that I’m in a position where I can. Many of us feel like we can’t change the world, but organizations like Unity 4 Orphans allow us to contribute and it’s an easy process to do so.
– Marlene, Resident Physician at Kaiser
Learning Materials and Art Supplies Help Boost Children’s Confidence
The children were so thankful for the new learning aides and educational games and each one was able to choose one that interests them. One little girl excitedly chose a spinning painting tool that allows her to use different colors to make art, saying that she wants to be an artist when she grows up. Marlene realized the importance of providing the children with tools to help them enhance their talents and dreams.
I truly believe no matter your background or where you come from, dreams can be accomplished.
– Marlene, Resident Physician at Kaiser
Do you have coworkers, neighbors, or friends who would be willing to join a unique drive to help the children we serve? There are countless ways to give back and we’d love to hear from you and help you set up something equally impactful to change the lives of vulnerable children.