Rock My World

I love it when someone is able to turn a passion into a worthwhile endeavour.  I think that is the happiest, coolest, wildest, OMG-the-Universe-has-finally-listened  thing that can happen to ANYONE.

Some people get their wishes and are able to turn a lifelong passion into a successful career.  Some people end up running the business of their dreams. Some are able to live the life they so love.  And still, there are some, who are able to tweak this and do something that can totally rock your world - not to mention a few depressed communities as well.

In September 2006, a group of young professionals with a deep passion for music and the arts decided they wanted to go and run with an idea they’ve had percolating in their (mostly right-side thinking) brains.   They wanted to use their professional expertise and creative talents to give something to the community.  They sat down and started brainstorming.  A name for the group came up: Rock for Humanity.  Hmmmm – I like. 

Rock and Feed at Barangay Balangkas, Valenzuela
Photo courtesy of RHuM

They sat down some more and did some more brainstorming and planning.  And then things started to RHuM-ble.

Starting with the White Bag Project,  this motley crew of graphic artists, writers, filmmakers, musicians, child advocates, visual artists and designers raised funds through gigs and exhibits to fill up white bags with basic necessities like food, health kits and school supplies to be given away to children living in depressed communities. 

Community Gift Giving at Bgy. Dona Imelda, Araneta Avenue
Photo courtesy of RHuM

Children eagerly wait for their goodies at Bgy. Balangkas ValenzuelaPhoto courtesy of RHuM

This year, they have decided to go one step further in their advocacy to help deserving but poor communities with RHuM Mobile: Travelling Community Bazaar.   The Travelling Bazaar picks one local community each month and they set up there – with proceeds of the bazaar booth rentals and such going toward furthering community projects and other advocacies of the group.  This July, they have chosen to hold it at the Bulwagang Claret, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish at Mahinhin Street, UP Diliman.  This bazaar, scheduled for July 31, 2011 from 9 am to 9 pm,  will benefit the communities adopted by the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish.  

The bazaar highlights some of the best Filipino handmade goods you can find – and more.  Rock for Humanity Travelling Bazaar promises not only to be a bazaar shopper’s dream but also a feast for the other senses as well.  There will be an artsy cafe set-up where you can hang out and listen to Pinoy rock band TOYO and other Pinoy indie performers, food booths selling yummy Pinoy favourites and new recipes, booths featuring  businesses based in the community,  and exhibits mounted by Pinoy visual artists. It’s going to be one awesome, rocking, deal-filled Sunday  I’m sure.

Toyo at Penguin, Malate

Rockin' kids at Bgy. Balangkas, Valenzuela

RHuM is also opening its doors to those who would like to sell their handmade items or showcase their artwork.  Booth prices are very reasonable – plus, there’s the bonus of being able to contribute to a worthy cause.   If you’re interested, you can contact Beng Ragon via email at rhumobile@gmail.com.  You can also reach Beng through these numbers:  0918-9362450/ 0927-4294962 and telefax 448-6670 and of course you can get the latest updates via their Facebook page. Volunteers for the events are also needed so sign up - it's an awesome chance to give back! And if you know of a community that can benefit from RHuM's efforts, the group is open to set up camp and rock for 'ya!

I’m looking forward to being there on the 31^st to take in the sights and sounds and of course to shop handmade.  I have a feeling I’ll be following this travelling bazaar around town.  Heh – never thought I’d become a bazaar groupie.  LOL.